Getting ready for kindergarten involves more than academic preparedness. At Peake Childhood Center, we know that children also need the social-emotional skills to manage their feelings, solve problems, and build positive relationships. Research from the National Center for Children in Poverty shows that when kindergarten teachers are asked to identify the skills that matter most for school readiness, three of the most frequently identified are a child’s ability to calm themselves when upset, solve basic social problems, and get along with peers. These skills were the focus of a recent Parent Partnership session, where families learned about the strategies our teachers use every day to help children develop these important abilities. They also learned how they can support that work at home.
Our teachers use a variety of tools and techniques to help children practice these skills throughout the day. These include a feelings chart as well as Tucker Turtle. He is a classroom puppet that models a simple technique for managing their big feelings. Other strategies include the use of a solutions kit that helps children work through everyday social challenges with less adult assistance. Finally, super friends help the children to know what it looks like to be a good friend.
Together, these strategies give children practical tools they can use to manage emotions, navigate conflicts, and maintain friendships.
