Supporting Social-Emotional Development Through Positive Guidance
During the early childhood years, young children grow and develop rapidly. Their natural curiosity and inquisitiveness lead them to explore the world around them with new experiences occurring every day! Sometimes this curiosity can result in behaviors that adults may find challenging. However, these behaviors are often rooted in exploration and learning.
Young children are natural researchers; they test theories and observe outcomes. For example:
- If I bite my friend, will they give me the toy?
- If I run away, will the adult chase me?
- If I knock over these items, will the adult pick them up?
Every behavior has a form and function. As adults, we have the opportunity to put on our “researcher hats” and observe why a child behaves a certain way. With thoughtful observation, we can determine how to guide children in positive, supportive ways.
Texas A&M Children’s Centers
Executive Director
Just like adults, children experience a wide range of emotions throughout the day. A crucial part of our role is helping them identify and express those emotions in healthy ways. To support this, every classroom includes a designated “cozy area” where children can learn to calm themselves and manage big feelings.
As early childhood educators and caregivers, one of our key responsibilities is to guide children in developing important skills such as emotional regulation and social competence.
- To learn more about positive guidance, check out the BGCC Spotlight.
- To explore emotional development and support strategies, visit the CSCC Spotlight.
The Children’s Centers are also working closely with the Institute for Early Childhood Development and Education through a collaboration with a postdoctoral researcher. Together, we are enhancing our approach to inclusion and behavior guidance.
Additionally, our Inclusion Specialist and Leadership Team work alongside educators in the classroom to develop individualized support plans.
Recent updates include:
- A revised policy on inclusion and behavior support
- Center-wide expectations for behavior
- A problem-solving approach to social conflicts
- Implementation of cozy areas for self-regulation
- Development of individualized safety plans