At Las Colinas Children’s Academy, we understand that preparing children for school goes beyond teaching basic academic skills. Social-emotional learning (SEL) is an essential piece of the puzzle, deeply rooted in brain science. By focusing on SEL, we are not only preparing children for the classroom but also laying the groundwork for lifelong success.
 
The Science of Brain Development and SEL
 
During the first five years of life, a child’s brain is growing and changing at an extraordinary rate. Scientists estimate that over one million new neural connections form every second during this period (Center on the Developing Child, 2020). These connections shape the brain’s architecture and influence how children think, feel, and behave throughout their lives. Experiences in early childhood—especially those involving positive social and emotional interactions—play a crucial role in this process.
 
1. Building Emotional Regulation Through Neural Pathways
The prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for executive functions like emotional regulation, attention, and problem-solving, undergoes significant development during early childhood. When children engage in SEL activities, such as learning to manage their emotions or resolve conflicts, they strengthen the neural pathways in this part of the brain. For instance, a child practicing deep breathing to calm down is actively wiring their brain for self-regulation, a skill essential for success in school and beyond.
 
2. The Role of the Stress Response in Brain Development
The amygdala, often called the brain’s “fear center,” is responsible for processing emotions, particularly stress and fear. In a supportive environment where SEL is prioritized, the stress response is moderated by positive interactions with caregivers and peers. This helps the brain’s stress-response system (the HPA axis) stay regulated. Over time, children learn to handle challenges without becoming overwhelmed. However, in the absence of supportive SEL practices, chronic stress can impair the development of key brain areas, leading to difficulties in learning, memory, and emotional control (Shonkoff et al., 2012).
 
3. Strengthening the Brain’s Social Circuitry
SEL also strengthens the brain’s “social circuitry,” which involves regions like the orbitofrontal cortex and mirror neuron systems. These areas are activated when children observe and engage in social interactions, such as sharing, cooperating, or empathizing with others. For example, during a group activity where children collaborate to build a tower, the brain is actively processing the social cues, emotions, and problem-solving required for teamwork. These experiences enhance a child’s ability to connect with others, a critical skill for school and life.
 
4. Early SEL Experiences and Long-Term Brain Health
The brain’s plasticity—the ability to adapt and change—makes early childhood an ideal time to invest in SEL. Neural pathways formed during this period create a foundation for how children process emotions and interact with others throughout their lives. Positive SEL experiences in early childhood can lead to better mental health, improved academic performance, and stronger relationships well into adulthood (Jones et al., 2015). By providing children with these experiences early, we’re not just shaping their readiness for school but equipping them for resilience and adaptability in the face of future challenges.
 
The Long-Term Benefits of SEL
 
1. Emotional Regulation for Learning and Growth
Children who practice SEL develop strong emotional regulation skills, allowing them to handle frustrations, transitions, and challenges in school. These skills directly impact their ability to focus on tasks, listen to instructions, and persist through difficulties.
 
2. Social Skills for Collaboration
Learning to share, cooperate, and empathize through SEL activities builds social skills that are invaluable in group settings like classrooms. Children who can work well with others are more likely to form positive relationships with peers and teachers, creating a supportive learning environment.
 
3. Executive Function Development
SEL activities strengthen executive functions, which are key to planning, decision-making, and goal-setting. These skills help children transition from one task to another, follow multi-step directions, and achieve long-term goals, all of which are essential for academic success.
 
4. Resilience and Stress Management
By teaching children how to cope with stress and challenges, SEL reduces the impact of toxic stress, protecting their brain health and enhancing their resilience. These coping mechanisms support not only school readiness but also long-term well-being.
 
5. Lifelong Success
Research shows that children with strong SEL skills in early childhood are more likely to graduate high school, pursue higher education, and maintain stable employment (Jones et al., 2015). These benefits highlight the lasting impact of investing in SEL during the critical years of brain development.
 
How We Support SEL at Las Colinas Children’s Academy
 

• At Las Colinas Children’s Academy, we weave SEL into every aspect of our program.
• Safe Spaces: Each classroom includes a calming corner with breathing pillows and visual tools to help children process emotions.
• Interactive SEL Activities: Programs like baby doll circle time and collaborative storytelling allow children to practice empathy, teamwork, and self-expression.
• Conscious Discipline: This evidence-based program teaches children how to regulate emotions, solve conflicts, and build healthy relationships.
• Play-Based Curriculum: Free play encourages children to explore social scenarios, solve problems, and express themselves in a safe environment.

 
The Takeaway
 
The science of brain development emphasizes the importance of social-emotional learning in early childhood. By providing children with experiences that nurture their emotional regulation, social skills, and executive functions, we’re preparing them not just for school, but for a lifetime of success. At Las Colinas Children’s Academy, we are committed to supporting every child’s growth through intentional SEL practices that build healthy brains and bright futures.
 
Stay tuned for Part 3, where we’ll explore simple and effective ways families can support SEL at home!
 
References

• Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. (2020). Brain architecture. Retrieved from https://developingchild.harvard.edu/
• Gunnar, M. R., & Quevedo, K. (2007). The neurobiology of stress and development. Annual Review of Psychology, 58(1), 145–173.
• Jones, D. E., Greenberg, M., & Crowley, M. (2015). Early social-emotional functioning and public health: The relationship between kindergarten social competence and future wellness. American Journal of Public Health, 105(11), 2283–2290.
• Shonkoff, J. P., et al. (2012). The lifelong effects of early childhood adversity and toxic stress. Pediatrics, 129(1), e232–e246.

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Social-emotional development might sound like a fancy term, but at its core, it’s all about helping kids understand their feelings, build relationships, and learn how to interact with the world around them. For children from birth to age five, this type of growth is just as important as learning their ABCs or how to count to ten. It’s the foundation for things like forming friendships, managing emotions, and handling life’s little ups and downs.
 
What Is Social-Emotional Development?
In simple terms, social-emotional development is about learning how to feel and connect. It’s the process that helps kids:
 

• Recognize and express their emotions.

 

• Understand and respond to the emotions of others.

 

• Build healthy relationships through things like sharing, taking turns, and showing empathy.

 
For example, when a toddler learns to say, “I’m mad!” instead of hitting or throwing a toy, that’s social-emotional growth in action. When a preschooler comforts a friend who’s upset, they’re showing empathy—a key skill that starts developing in these early years.
 
Why Is It So Important?

• Social-emotional skills are like the hidden superpowers of early childhood. They’re the tools kids use to navigate everything from playground interactions to big life transitions, like starting school. Here’s why they matter so much:

 

• Building Relationships: Kids who can understand and manage their emotions are better equipped to make friends, work in teams, and connect with others in meaningful ways.

 

• Preparing for School: Social-emotional skills like listening, taking turns, and following directions help kids succeed in classroom settings.

 

• Lifelong Success: These skills aren’t just for childhood—they’re the foundation for healthy relationships, resilience, and problem-solving as adults.

 
How Can We Support Social-Emotional Growth?
 
The great thing about social-emotional development is that it’s not something that only happens in the classroom—it starts right at home and in everyday interactions. Here are some simple ways you can help your child grow in this area:

• Talk About Feelings: Help your child label their emotions by saying things like, “It looks like you’re feeling sad. Do you want a hug?”

 

• Model Empathy: Show kindness and understanding in your own actions, and your child will learn to do the same.

 

• Encourage Play: Whether it’s pretend play or building with blocks, play helps kids practice social skills like sharing, teamwork, and problem-solving.

 

• Celebrate Efforts: If your child manages to calm themselves down after a tantrum or helps a friend, acknowledge it! A simple “I’m so proud of how you handled that” goes a long way.

 
Helpful Resources for Parents
 
Here are some excellent resources to help you learn more about social-emotional development and how to support your child:
 
The Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL): CSEFEL Parent Tools. Offers printable tools and activities to help families promote social-emotional skills at home.
 
Zero to Three: Social-Emotional Development Resources. Provides research-based tips and strategies for parents of infants and toddlers.
 
PBS Parents: Emotional Growth. Fun articles and activities to help support your child’s emotional development through play and everyday moments.
 
Harvard University Center on the Developing Child: How Early Experiences Shape Social-Emotional Development. Learn about the science behind early social-emotional growth and why it matters.
 
Books for Kids:

• The Color Monster: A Story About Emotions by Anna Llenas
• In My Heart: A Book of Feelings by Jo Witek
• Hands Are Not for Hitting by Martine Agassi

Why We’re Talking About This
 
This blog is the first in our Social-Emotional Development Series, and we’re so excited to dive deeper into this topic with you. Over the next few weeks, we’ll explore activities, strategies, and tips to help nurture these essential skills in children ages 0-5.
 
Social-emotional development isn’t something that happens overnight—it’s a journey, and we’re here to walk alongside you and your family. Together, we can help our little ones grow into confident, compassionate, and emotionally strong individuals.
 
Stay tuned for more! And if you have any specific questions or topics you’d like us to cover, let us know. Let’s make this a conversation!

At Las Colinas Children’s Academy, we understand that families come in all shapes and sizes—whether it’s a single parent household, grandparents stepping in as primary caregivers, or families navigating life after separation. What remains universal is the importance of spending quality time together. These moments of connection not only create cherished memories but also provide significant emotional, social, and developmental benefits for children.



​Why Quality Time Matters

Regardless of family structure, dedicating time to be together strengthens bonds and helps children thrive. Here are some key benefits:
1. Fosters Emotional Stability: Quality time reassures children of their importance, building a foundation of love, security, and confidence.
2. Encourages Growth and Learning: Activities like reading, cooking, or engaging in creative play provide opportunities to develop critical thinking, language, and life skills.
3. Strengthens Communication: Shared experiences open lines of communication, allowing children to feel heard and understood.
4. Builds Resilience: Whether your family is navigating the challenges of a single-parent lifestyle, a multi-generational household, or co-parenting after separation, consistent time together fosters resilience in children and adults alike.

Spending time together doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Here are some fun and budget-friendly activities suitable for different family dynamics:

For Single-Parent Families
•Shared Chores with a Twist: Turn cleaning or meal prep into a game. For example, have a competition to see who can sort laundry the fastest or let your child “play chef” while you cook.
•Outdoor Adventures: Visit a local park or play a game of tag in the backyard. These moments help both parent and child recharge.
•Evening Check-Ins: Set aside a few minutes at the end of the day to talk about highs, lows, and what you’re looking forward to.


For Grandparents Raising Children
•Storytelling and Traditions: Share family stories or recipes with your grandchildren. It’s a wonderful way to pass down traditions and create a sense of belonging.
•Simple Walks: A walk around the block can become an exciting adventure when children are encouraged to point out interesting plants, animals, or shapes they see.
•Creative Crafts: Projects like making scrapbooks with family photos or creating art together are perfect for building connections.


For Families Co-Parenting or Separated
•Coordinated Activities: Collaborate with the other parent to create a consistent activity your child can enjoy, like journaling about their day or a weekly movie night at each home.
•One-on-One Time: Focus on the quality of your time together rather than the quantity. Even a short, meaningful conversation or a trip to the library can make a lasting impact.
•Virtual Bonding: For long-distance parents, use video calls to read a bedtime story, play online games, or share updates about your day.


Budget-Friendly Family Activities
Here are some universally enjoyable activities that work for all family types:
1. Game Night: Whether it’s board games, card games, or creating your own (like charades), a little competition sparks joy and laughter.
2. Movie or Book Nights: Rotate who picks the film or book, ensuring everyone feels included in the fun.
3. DIY Fun: Build a fort out of blankets, paint rocks from the backyard, or create handmade cards for loved ones.
4. Community Events: Check local libraries or parks for free family-friendly events like story hours, concerts, or craft workshops.
5. Cooking Together: Prepare a simple meal or snack together, such as homemade pizza or fruit smoothies. It’s both fun and educational.

Celebrating Family Diversity

At Las Colinas Children’s Academy, we celebrate the diversity of family structures and believe every family has the power to create meaningful moments together. No matter your circumstances, the time you spend with your child—whether it’s a simple conversation or a playful afternoon—has a profound and lasting impact.
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Let’s embrace the joy of family, in all its beautiful forms, and prioritize connection in our daily lives. How does your family enjoy spending time together? Share your favorite activities with us in the comments!

Together, we create memories. Together, we grow.

Play is a powerful and essential part of early childhood education. It promotes a child’s cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development in ways that structured learning alone cannot achieve. Let’s explore the benefits of play and offer tips for encouraging it at home, as well as ideas for games and toys that will stimulate growth for children ages 0-5 years.
 
 Benefits of Play
 
1. Cognitive Development:
   Through play, children explore and understand the world around them. They develop problem-solving skills by experimenting with different objects and situations. For instance, building with blocks or solving puzzles improves a child's ability to think logically and tackle challenges. Play also stimulates language development as children learn new words and practice communication during role-play.
 
2. Physical Development:
   Play is essential for fine and gross motor skill development. Active play, such as running, jumping, and climbing, helps children strengthen their muscles and improve coordination. Even simple activities like stacking blocks or scribbling with crayons enhance fine motor control, setting the stage for later tasks like writing.
 
3. Social-Emotional Growth:
   Interacting with others during play teaches children about empathy, sharing, and cooperation. Whether they’re pretending to be chefs in a play kitchen or negotiating rules in a game of tag, children learn how to communicate, resolve conflicts, and understand the feelings of others. Playtime with peers helps them navigate social relationships and builds self-confidence.
 
4. Creativity and Imagination:
   Pretend play sparks children’s imaginations, allowing them to explore different roles and scenarios. This helps them express their emotions and ideas creatively. Imaginative play gives children a safe space to process their experiences and practice problem-solving in new ways, building cognitive flexibility.
 
5. Self-Regulation and Problem-Solving:
   Play helps children practice patience, perseverance, and the ability to manage emotions. As they navigate challenges during play, such as losing a game or building a tricky tower, they develop resilience and the ability to try again even after setbacks.
 
 Tips for Encouraging Play at Home
 
1. Limit Screen Time:
   While some educational content on screens can be beneficial, it's essential to balance screen time with active, hands-on play. Too much screen time can interfere with attention span and limit opportunities for creative and physical play. For young children, it's best to limit screen use to no more than an hour a day of high-quality programming and encourage more interactive, imaginative play instead.
 
2. Provide Open-Ended Toys:
   Toys that have multiple uses—like blocks, dolls, or art supplies—encourage creativity and problem-solving. These toys allow children to imagine different scenarios and use their creativity to engage in various types of play.
 
3. Create a Play-Friendly Space:
   Set aside a safe, dedicated space where your child can freely explore toys and activities. Whether it's a corner of the living room or a playroom, having an area with minimal distractions and plenty of room to move around is key to fostering active play.
 
4. Incorporate Outdoor Play:
   Outdoor play allows children to engage in physical activity, connect with nature, and use their imaginations in different ways. Playing in parks, going on nature walks, or simply running around in the yard helps improve physical health and motor skills.
 
5. Follow Their Lead:
   Let your child guide their own play. Children are naturally curious and often create their own games and stories. Resist the urge to direct every aspect of their play—letting them explore freely will help them build independence and creativity.
 
6. Play Alongside Them:
   Engage in play with your child whenever possible. Not only will this help strengthen your bond, but it will also encourage them to explore new activities or ways of thinking. Playing together offers opportunities for you to model social skills, like sharing and taking turns, and to ask open-ended questions that extend their learning.
 
 Fun Games and Toys for Different Age Groups
 
1. Infants (0-12 months):

• Tummy Time: Place bright, colorful toys within reach to encourage reaching, grasping, and motor skill development.
• Rattles & Soft Blocks: Soft toys and rattles help infants develop hand-eye coordination and begin to understand cause and effect.

 
2. Toddlers (1-3 years):

•   Pretend Play: Toys like toy food, baby dolls, or animal figurines encourage role-playing and imagination, helping toddlers understand different social roles.
•    Simple Puzzles and Shape Sorters: These types of toys challenge toddlers’ cognitive abilities and enhance their fine motor skills.
• Interactive Songs and Movement Games: Games like "Simon Says" or dancing to music help toddlers develop gross motor skills while learning to follow directions.

 
3. Preschoolers (3-5 years):
   - Building Blocks & Construction Sets: Blocks allow children to develop problem-solving and fine motor skills as they create various structures.
   - Art Supplies: Crayons, paints, clay, and scissors help preschoolers express creativity while improving hand strength and fine motor control.
   - Board Games and Simple Card Games: Games that require taking turns, following rules, and thinking strategically help preschoolers build social and cognitive skills.
 
 
Play is an essential part of early childhood education that fosters all areas of development, from physical growth to cognitive and social-emotional learning. By creating a play-rich environment at home, limiting screen time, and offering stimulating activities that encourage curiosity and creativity, parents can help their children thrive. Whether it’s through simple games, imaginative play, or outdoor adventures, playtime provides the foundation for lifelong learning and development. So, encourage play every day—it’s how children learn best!

In the early years of a child’s life, they are not just learning to recognize colors, shapes, and letters; they are also developing the essential social and emotional skills that will serve as the foundation for their future well-being and success. Social-emotional learning (SEL) in early childhood is about more than just preparing children for school—it’s about helping them grow into confident, empathetic, and resilient individuals.
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What is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)? Social-emotional learning in involves teaching young children how to identify and manage their emotions, interact positively with others, and make responsible decisions. It’s the process through which children learn to:

• Understand and express their emotions: Young children are just beginning to recognize their feelings and find ways to express them. SEL helps them develop a vocabulary for their emotions and teaches them how to communicate what they’re experiencing in healthy ways.
• Build relationships with others: Early childhood is when children start to learn how to share, take turns, and play cooperatively with others. SEL fosters these skills, helping children form positive relationships with their peers and adults.
• Develop self-regulation: Learning to control impulses, follow directions, and manage frustration are key aspects of self-regulation that children begin to develop in their early years.
• Solve problems: As children encounter challenges—whether it’s figuring out how to build a tall block tower or resolving a disagreement with a friend—SEL teaches them problem-solving skills that they’ll use throughout their lives.

Why is SEL Critical?

1. Foundation for Learning: Social-emotional skills are the bedrock of all learning. When children feel secure, understood, and capable, they are more likely to engage in learning activities and persist through challenges. This foundation is crucial as they begin their formal education.
2. Healthy Relationships: Early childhood is when children start to build their first friendships and learn to navigate social interactions. SEL equips them with the tools to form strong, positive relationships, which are vital for their emotional and social development.
3. Emotional Well-being: Young children experience big emotions, and without the tools to manage these feelings, they can become overwhelmed. SEL helps children understand and regulate their emotions, leading to greater emotional well-being and reduced behavioral issues.
4. Long-Term Success: The skills children learn in early childhood set the stage for their future success in school and beyond. Strong social-emotional skills have been linked to better academic performance, healthier relationships, and greater resilience in the face of adversity.

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Conscious Discipline: A Powerful Tool for SEL in Early ChildhoodOne of the most effective approaches to fostering social-emotional learning in young children is Conscious Discipline. This program, developed by Dr. Becky Bailey, is designed to create safe, connected, and empowered learning environments.
Conscious Discipline combines SEL with discipline, emphasizing a shift from traditional punitive methods to a more empathetic and proactive approach. Here’s how it works:

• Creating a Safe Space: Safety is the cornerstone of SEL. In early childhood, a safe environment means more than physical safety; it’s about creating a space where children feel emotionally secure and understood.
• Building Connections: For young children, connection is everything. Conscious Discipline encourages the development of strong, trusting relationships between children and caregivers, which in turn helps children feel valued and supported.
• Empowering Problem-Solving: Instead of focusing on punishment, Conscious Discipline teaches young children how to resolve conflicts and make better choices. This approach helps children learn from their mistakes and develop a sense of responsibility.

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Supporting SEL at HomeAs a parent, you play a crucial role in your child’s social-emotional development. Here are some ways you can support SEL at home during these formative early years:

• Model Emotional Awareness: Talk about your own emotions and how you manage them. This helps your child understand that emotions are normal and teaches them strategies for dealing with their own feelings.
• Encourage Play: Play is a natural way for young children to develop social-emotional skills. Through play, children learn to share, take turns, and cooperate with others.
• Read Together: Reading stories together is a wonderful way to explore emotions and social situations. Books can help children see different perspectives and learn how to handle various emotions and challenges.
• Practice Conscious Discipline: Incorporate Conscious Discipline techniques into your daily routine. For example, when your child is upset, use a calm and empathetic approach to help them process their emotions and find a solution.
• Explore Resources: The Conscious Discipline website offers a variety of resources, including articles, videos, and activities. Visit ConsciousDiscipline.com to learn more and find practical tools you can use at home.

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Social-emotional learning is essential for helping children develop the skills they need to succeed in school and life. By fostering emotional intelligence, building strong relationships, and teaching problem-solving skills, SEL provides a strong foundation for your child’s future.

As parents, you have the opportunity to support your child’s social-emotional development in meaningful ways. Whether through conscious discipline, play, or everyday interactions, your efforts will help your child grow into a happy, healthy, and resilient individual.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss how to further support your child’s SEL journey, please feel free to reach out. We’re here to work together for the best start in your child’s life.

In today’s digital world, the allure of screens is almost irresistible. With the rise in technology accessibility and the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating the shift to virtual interactions, many parents have noticed a dramatic increase in their children’s screen time. While technology offers incredible opportunities, it’s crucial to recognize that excessive screen time can have detrimental effects on your child’s physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development.

The Impact of Excessive Screen Time on Physical Health

Physical health is foundational to a child’s overall development, and increasing evidence suggests that prolonged screen time is contributing to a rise in childhood obesity. Sedentary behaviors associated with screen use—whether watching TV, playing video games, or using handheld devices—limit opportunities for physical activity. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, excessive screen time is a major risk factor for obesity because it often displaces time that could be spent engaging in active play.

Furthermore, screen time before bed can disrupt sleep patterns. The blue light emitted by screens interferes with the production of melatonin, a hormone crucial for sleep. This can lead to poor sleep habits, which in turn affect a child’s mood, behavior, and overall health.

Cognitive Development and Screen Time

Early childhood is a critical period for brain development. Research published in the *American Medical Association* highlights the negative impact of excessive screen time on cognitive development. The study found that children exposed to more than four hours of screen time per day at just one year old showed delays in communication, problem-solving, and fine motor skills. These delays can have cascading effects on a child’s academic and cognitive growth, impacting their ability to engage with and understand the world around them.

Social-Emotional Development and Screen Time

Social-emotional skills are vital for successful relationships and overall well-being. Theories by Vygotsky and Bandura emphasize the importance of observational learning—children learn and develop social skills through interactions with others. When children spend excessive time behind screens, they miss out on these critical face-to-face interactions, which can hinder their ability to understand and manage emotions, communicate effectively, and form healthy relationships.

Moreover, unsupervised screen time can expose children to inappropriate or violent content, further complicating their social-emotional development. The absence of real-life social interactions and the potential for exposure to harmful content can exacerbate issues with empathy, social skills, and self-regulation.

Finding the Right Balance

It’s important to acknowledge that screens are an integral part of our modern world and that some screen time can be educational and beneficial. The key is moderation and supervision. For children under three, it’s generally recommended to limit screen time to occasional, family-friendly movies or shows. For children three and older, supervised screen time can include educational videos or learning games, but should always be balanced with plenty of physical activity and direct social interactions.

Unrestricted access to the internet without parental oversight can lead to a range of issues, from exposure to inappropriate content to excessive sedentary behavior. Setting clear boundaries and providing engaging, screen-free alternatives can help mitigate the negative impacts of excessive screen time.

In conclusion, while technology is an important tool, it’s crucial to regulate screen time to support your child’s physical health, cognitive development, and social-emotional growth. By setting limits and fostering a balanced approach, you can ensure that your child benefits from technology while still thriving in all areas of their development.