【推荐1】Many parents have heard the term “social-emotional development,” but what does it mean? Put simply, it refers to the gradual growth of children’s ability to “experience, manage and express” their feelings, build relationships and explore their environment. “It’s understanding how our bodies and minds feel and think in relationship to the world around us,” says Dr. Mary Hadley, who has spent 15 years helping adults and children communicate.

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Social-emotional development changes as a child grows. A mother providing a feeling of safety for her baby begins the child’s process of healthy social-emotional development. As children enter school, they develop the ability to control their emotions and work well with others. Just as children never give up learning, social-emotional development doesn’t stagnate.

In primary school, students get themselves involved in play-based skills, learn to express themselves and practice empathy(共情) for others. Development in middle school looks similar, Hadley says. “We can help students to understand that everyone experiences emotions, both good and bad. And the way their bodies and minds feel will affect their social communication.” she says. Yet, while middle-schoolers can express their feelings, they also sometimes hide their thoughts, Roberson-Moore says. This can raise some challenges. “At the high school level, relationships with groups become very important,” says Kelly Oriard, a family expert(专家). As teenagers understand where they fit in the world, it is normal and healthy for them to build relationships outside of their family.

Building Social-Emotional Skills at Home

When it comes to social-emotional development, parents are a primary resource for children, and experts say there are many ways to help.

First, share your feelings with your children, and accept their feelings as well, Hadley says. For example, you can say to a shouting child, “Your voice is loud. You must be very mad that it’s time to turn off the TV.” Second, prioritize(优先考虑) family time. Even as children grow older, they can benefit from family time. Eating meals or working on a project together can open up time for conversation, which support your child’s emotional health. Third, encourage your children’s interests. You may not join in their football practice, but try to listen and take interest in the activities they value. This can lead to a healthy connection. “Raising healthy children truly takes a village,” Hadley says. “School teachers and social workers are also wonderful resources.”