Building Social-Emotional Foundations in Early Childhood Education: Approaches and Outcomes

Abstract

This study assessed the impact of socio-emotional learning (SEL) on academic performance and social competencies among early childhood learners. The findings revealed that learners with well-developed social-emotional competencies, particularly in areas such as emotional awareness, social skills, and pro- social behaviors, demonstrated significantly better academic performance. These competencies were also found to correlate with improved interpersonal relationships among learners and between learners and adults. Based on these results, the study strongly recommends the comprehensive integration of SEL into the school's curriculum. This includes the implementation of specific strategies such as targeted teacher training to enhance SEL delivery, increased parental involvement to support children's social and emotional development, and the establishment of a nurturing educational environment that promotes holistic development for all learners.