Research continues to demonstrate the link between positive and proactive classroom practices and desired student outcomes. Further, in the absence of positive and proactive practices, students are more likely to experience exclusionary discipline (e.g., suspensions, expulsions), lost instruction, and poor outcomes associated with a negative overall trajectory. In short, supporting and responding to students’ social, emotional, behavioral, and academic needs is critical to student success.
For some young children, moving from one activity to another (e.g., playing with toys to dinner time, playing outside to bath time, watching a movie to brushing teeth), results in confusion, frustration, or challenging behaviors. Adults can help children predict what is coming next which helps make transitions smoother.
You can follow your child’s development by watching how he or she plays, learns, speaks, and acts. Look inside for milestones to watch for in your child and how you can help your child learn and grow.
Children are born with the need and desire to connect with those around them. When parents and caregivers establish positive relationships with children from birth through the early years, children feel safe and secure, laying the foundation for healthy social and emotional development. This process affects how children experience the world, express themselves, manage their emotions, and establish positive relationships with others.
Peer interactions are important for children’s learning and development. Children learn new skills by observing and interacting with other children during everyday classroom activities and routines. By paying close attention and responding to what children are doing while playing and interacting with others, adults can support and enhance their social play and interactions.
The foundation for universal practices begins with nurturing and responsive caregiving that supports children in developing a positive sense of self and in engaging in relationships with others.
