The Importance of Social and Emotional Learning: Shar’ ron and Serena
Shar’ ron didn’ t plan to work in early childhood education. But when she lost her job following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, she began teaching preschool in her home. Over time and through professional development, she discovered that early childhood education was meaningful and a place where she could build a clear purpose. She began taking training in trauma and diversity; she continues to seek opportunities to expand her knowledge about cultural and racial diversity.
Shar’ ron believes that strong practice requires a personal teaching philosophy, or set of beliefs to guide everyday decisions. For her, that philosophy is grounded in social and emotional development and early literacy: When children can identify their feelings, express themselves, and feel safe in relationships, she says, they are better prepared to engage in learning. Reading can help them build emotional understanding and confidence.
Serena agrees. Her path to home-based early childhood education began as she cared for her daughter and other children in her family. Early on, her work focused mostly on the alphabet, numbers, and writing names. But thanks to her growing experience and professional development, she began to understand how emotional safety, play, conversation, and open-ended questions contribute to children’ s development.
For Serena, success is no longer measured solely by whether children can recite letters or write their names. She prioritizes helping children manage and express feelings in healthy ways( like naming emotions and practicing calming strategies) and strives to create a calm, nurturing environment where children can learn without fear. She asks open-ended questions during play and routines(“ What do you think will happen if...?”;“ How could we solve that?”). She also uses books as a bridge between literacy and social and emotional learning.
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