Caregivers often think learning basics, like recognizing colors, shapes and letters, are what preschoolers need, but teachers say helping children develop strong social and emotional skills are even more important.
Reaching milestones, like sharing toys and taking turns, trying new things, and learning to manage strong emotions, are going to make a big difference in your child’s school success.
The loving relationships that your preschooler has developed with caregivers and family will help them feel more secure when they are in groups of other children. From ages 3 – 5, children are starting to be more aware of the feelings of other people, want to have friendships, and practice being more independent. There are many ways caregivers can help them.
Developing strong social and emotional skills can help child feel confident with building relationships, taking initiative to get their needs met, expressing how they feel in safe ways and asking for help when they need it. However, not all preschoolers progress at the same pace. If you are concerned about your child’s growth, talk to your healthcare provider.
Preschoolers are starting to enjoy interactive play and being with people, but also are learning how share toys and take turns, which can pose some challenges. You can help them by making play time a practice session. Take turns putting pieces into a puzzle, or using a shovel or truck in the sandbox. Talk about what if feels like to wait and help them manage their emotions. Say things like, “Waiting can be hard, let’s take a few deep breaths while mom takes her turn.”
You can also show what it looks like to respect others by practicing saying I’m sorry, please, and thank you. Talk about why it’s important to show courtesy to other people and model a healthy friendship.
Puppets, dress-up and pretend play give preschoolers the chance to see what it’s like from another person’s view. Play along with your preschooler, and let them play the role of another person. Ask them questions about what they feel and how they think others may feel to help them practice dealing with everyday situations. Ask questions like, “How do you think Janet would feel if Ella wants a turn with her favorite toy? What should she do?”
Accepting responsibility for small jobs around the house helps preschoolers learn a work routine that will contribute to school success. It also makes them feel valued in the household. Start with tasks like putting napkins on the table at meals, or helping with a pet. Make it a routine and let them know you noticed their efforts, “I see you putting your trash in the can, thank you for helping clean up. This will leave us more time for stories tonight.”
Find tips to help you navigate the preschool years from The Center for Disease Control.
Learn tips from Pathways.org to support your preschooler’s social and emotional skills.
Social and Emotional Health: A Guide for Families with Children Birth to Age 8 offers practical tips to help parents support their child’s social and emotional well‑being.
