Centre For Early Childhood Resources
For professionals, practitioners and volunteers working with babies, young children and their families.
“Now is the moment to place care and connection at the heart of all we do, and to shape a future in which love can truly flourish.”
What is social and emotional development?
Social and emotional skills are a range of skills that shape who we are, how we manage our emotions and thoughts, how we communicate and relate to others, and how we explore the world around us. These are skills which are enhanced and refined throughout our lives, but their foundations are firmly rooted in early childhood.
Why is social and emotional development important?
Social and emotional skills are fundamental to wellbeing and development. They enable us to be happy, to build strong and loving relationships, and to do the things that fulfil us. They help us to be healthier and to achieve better outcomes in education and work.
How do we develop our social and emotional skills?
Relationships and interactions between caring adults and babies or young children are the most influential factor in shaping social, emotional, and cognitive development in early childhood. Children need connection in order to develop and thrive.
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