Page 39 - Intra Muros May 2024

TODAY’S CHILD

There are five elements to a preschooler’s
developmental process, namely:
• Self-awareness – this is when preschoolers become
aware of their gender, features, etc. They are
becoming increasingly independent as they begin
playing with their peers and become less reliant on
their parents in a social setting.
• Self-management – this is when they learn to
control their emotions and behaviour in a range of
situations, especially when things don’t go the way
What happens when a child lacks social-emotional development? they want them to.
Delayed or stunted social-emotional development at preschool age manifests in the form • Social awareness – understanding how they fit into
of behavioural problems. These result in an increased risk of adversity for the child during the world. They start developing values and attitudes
their school-going years. Hence, the child could face various challenges such as ongoing toward others and learn to show for others and their
behavioural problems, poor academic results and even psychiatric disorders. possessions.
• Relationship skills – they start to develop the ability
How can parents help? to self-regulate, to show empathy and to understand
• A great way to help preschoolers understand others is to sit with them and read books other people’s perspectives.
in which the characters experience emotion. Discuss how your child would feel in the • Responsible decision-making – parents are involved
same situation. in guiding their child to think about a problematic
• Encourage your child to talk about their feelings – why they are sad, angry or happy. situation and how to go about resolving it.
• Help your child make connections with others. Explain to them why a friend might not
want to play with them. Maybe that friend is shy, sad, or not feeling well. Every age has unique challenges; parenting means
• Be gentle, calm and consistent in how you parent your preschooler through this phase adapting, supporting, nurturing, guiding and being
in the context of the social and emotional learning they are experiencing. present with your children.
• Encourage them to name their feelings through words or pictures.
• Remind them that all feelings are okay if they are expressed clearly and considerately. Remember: your children mirror what they see, so show
• Use books, songs, games, stories and play to discuss various feelings. empathy towards others, be mindful of how you interact
• Focus on teaching them problem-solving skills. These can be applied to relationships, with others, talk about your emotions, and share your
situations and their own feelings. treats with them – they will learn from you!

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