As parents, we all want the best for our children academically, socially, and emotionally. But while milestones like learning to read or count are often celebrated, the importance of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is sometimes overlooked. In reality, SEL lays the foundation for lifelong success, teaching children how to understand and manage emotions, build meaningful relationships, and navigate the challenges of growing up.
In the UK, SEL has gained attention as a key aspect of early childhood education, particularly as nurseries and schools look to nurture well-rounded children prepared for both school and life. This blog explores what SEL is, why it’s crucial for your child’s development, and how you, as a parent, can support it at home.
What Is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)?
Social-Emotional Learning is about helping children develop five essential life skills:
Self-Awareness – Recognising and naming their emotions.
Self-Management – Learning to control impulses and handle stress.
Social Awareness – Understanding and empathising with others.
Relationship Skills – Building healthy, positive relationships.
Responsible Decision-Making – Making thoughtful, ethical choices.
In a nursery or early years setting, SEL might look like teaching children to take turns, express their feelings in words, or resolve conflicts through calm discussion. These skills help children build resilience, confidence, and empathy—qualities they’ll carry with them into adulthood.
Learn more about SEL and its importance at The Early Intervention Foundation.
Why Is SEL Important in Early Years?
1. Supports Mental Health
With one in six children in the UK aged 5–16 experiencing a probable mental health disorder (NHS Digital, 2021), SEL provides young children with tools to express and manage their feelings before problems escalate. It helps them develop emotional resilience to cope with life’s challenges.
2. Prepares Children for School
Starting school can be daunting for many young children. SEL equips them with the social skills to make friends, handle new routines, and work collaboratively. Research shows that children who develop strong social-emotional skills in their early years perform better academically in later life.
Explore school readiness tips from Pacey UK.
3. Builds Positive Relationships
Children who learn empathy and effective communication early are more likely to build positive relationships with peers, teachers, and family members. This creates a foundation for healthy social interactions throughout their lives.
How UK Nurseries Promote SEL
1. Role-Playing and Storytime
Nurseries often use role-playing to teach empathy and problem-solving. For example, acting out scenarios such as sharing toys or comforting a friend helps children practice these skills in a safe environment.
Storytime is another powerful tool. Books that explore emotions or teach empathy are a staple in many UK nurseries. Some popular titles include The Colour Monster by Anna Llenas and Ruby's Worry by Tom Percival.
2. Emotion Charts
Many nurseries use visual tools like emotion charts or "feelings boards" to help children identify and express their emotions. This builds emotional vocabulary and self-awareness.
3. Mindfulness Activities
Mindfulness is growing in popularity within early years settings. Simple exercises like "deep belly breathing" or guided calm times help children learn self-regulation.
For ideas on mindfulness, visit Action for Children.
4. Collaborative Play
Activities like building blocks, group art projects, or cooperative games encourage teamwork, negotiation, and turn-taking. These experiences teach children the value of working together and resolving conflicts constructively.
How Parents in the UK Can Support SEL at Home
As a parent, you play a vital role in your child’s social-emotional development. Here are some simple but effective ways to encourage SEL at home:
1. Talk About Feelings
Encourage your child to name their emotions by modeling this yourself. For example, if you’re frustrated, you might say, “I feel frustrated because I spilled my tea. I’ll take a deep breath to calm down.”
Using emotion words regularly helps children build an emotional vocabulary.
2. Read Together
Children’s books can be a wonderful way to explore social-emotional themes. After reading, discuss the characters' feelings and choices. For example:
The Huge Bag of Worries by Virginia Ironside
Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae
Find more book recommendations on BookTrust UK.
3. Model Positive Behavior
Children learn by watching you. Show them how to handle conflicts calmly, apologise when you make mistakes, and express gratitude. For instance, saying, “Thank you for helping me tidy up,” models appreciation.
4. Practice Problem-Solving
When conflicts arise, guide your child through resolving them. For example, if siblings are arguing over a toy, you might say:
“How can we share this toy so everyone gets a turn?”
This helps children learn negotiation and compromise.
5. Encourage Playdates
Social interactions with other children are vital for practicing SEL. Organising playdates or joining local toddler groups can provide opportunities for your child to navigate friendships.
Check out parenting groups near you on Mumsnet.
The Long-Term Benefits of SEL
Research highlights the long-term impact of SEL on children’s development. Children who develop strong SEL skills in their early years are more likely to:
Excel academically throughout their education.
Have better mental health as adults.
Form positive relationships in both their personal and professional lives.
Make ethical and responsible decisions.
These benefits aren’t just anecdotal; studies conducted globally and in the UK consistently show that SEL is an investment in a child’s future success.
Learn more about SEL's research-backed benefits at The Anna Freud Centre.
Common Questions About SEL
How do I know if my child is developing SEL skills?
Look for signs like sharing, expressing feelings verbally, and cooperating with others. Remember, every child develops at their own pace, so focus on progress rather than perfection.
What if my child struggles with emotions?
It’s normal for young children to have big emotions! Tools like emotion cards or mindfulness exercises can help them learn self-regulation over time.
Is SEL only for nurseries and schools?
Not at all. SEL is just as important at home and can be nurtured through everyday interactions, routines, and family activities.
Final Thoughts: Nurturing Social-Emotional Growth
Social-Emotional Learning is not just another educational buzzword; it’s a vital part of raising happy, resilient, and successful children. By focusing on SEL, nurseries and parents can work together to provide children with the skills they need to navigate both the challenges and joys of life.
As parents, your role is critical. Whether it’s reading a bedtime story about feelings, encouraging your child to share, or simply taking a moment to listen to their worries, every small effort contributes to their growth.
For more resources and support, visit:
Together, we can nurture a generation of children who are not just academically prepared but emotionally intelligent and socially aware.