Early childhood is a critical period for shaping how children understand themselves, relate to others, and engage with the world around them. While academic foundations like literacy and numeracy are important, research consistently shows that social and emotional skills play an equally vital role in long-term success. This is where a social emotional learning curriculum becomes essential—especially when thoughtfully integrated with a strong social studies curriculum.

At Bank Street, early childhood education is grounded in the belief that children learn best through meaningful experiences, strong relationships, and reflective practice. A well-designed social emotional learning curriculum supports children’s emotional well-being while helping them develop empathy, self-awareness, cooperation, and responsible decision-making—skills that last a lifetime.

What Is a Social Emotional Learning Curriculum?

A social emotional learning curriculum (SEL curriculum) is a structured framework that helps children develop core emotional and social competencies. These competencies typically include:

• Self-awareness

• Self-regulation

• Social awareness

• Relationship skills

• Responsible decision-making

In early childhood settings, SEL is not taught as a standalone subject. Instead, it is woven into daily routines, play-based learning, classroom interactions, and storytelling. At Bank Street, SEL is integrated naturally through child-centered experiences that respect each child’s developmental stage and individuality.

Why Social Emotional Learning Matters in Early Childhood Development

The early years lay the foundation for emotional health and social competence. Children who participate in a strong social emotional learning curriculum are more likely to:

• Develop confidence and emotional resilience

• Build positive relationships with peers and adults

• Manage emotions effectively

• Demonstrate empathy and cooperation

• Engage more successfully in academic learning

Research shows that children with strong social-emotional skills perform better academically, exhibit fewer behavioral challenges, and adapt more easily to school environments. By prioritizing SEL in early childhood, educators and families support the whole child, not just academic outcomes.

The Role of Social Studies Curriculum in SEL

A well-rounded social studies curriculum complements social emotional learning by helping children understand their place in the world. Social studies introduces concepts such as community, culture, fairness, responsibility, and cooperation—key elements that reinforce SEL goals.

When social emotional learning curriculum and social studies curriculum work together, children learn to:

• Respect differences and diverse perspectives

• Understand community roles and relationships

• Practice problem-solving and conflict resolution

• Develop a sense of belonging and responsibility

At Bank Street, social studies is experience-based and inquiry-driven, allowing children to explore real-world connections while strengthening emotional intelligence and social awareness.

Bank Street’s Approach to Social Emotional Learning

The Bank Street approach to early childhood education is rooted in developmental interaction—an educational philosophy that emphasizes learning through relationships, reflection, and real-life experiences.

Key features of Bank Street’s social emotional learning curriculum include:

1. Child-Centered Learning

Children are active participants in their learning. Educators observe children’s interests, emotions, and interactions to design experiences that support emotional growth.

2. Learning Through Play

Play is central to SEL development. Through imaginative play, group activities, and collaborative problem-solving, children practice communication, empathy, and self-regulation.

3. Strong Teacher-Child Relationships

Educators model emotional awareness, respectful communication, and conflict resolution, creating a safe and supportive learning environment.

4. Integrated Curriculum Design

Rather than isolating SEL, Bank Street integrates social emotional learning across literacy, social studies curriculum, arts, and daily routines.

Core Components of an Effective Social Emotional Learning Curriculum

An effective social emotional learning curriculum for early childhood development should include the following elements:

Emotional Awareness

Children learn to recognize, name, and express emotions in healthy ways. Storytelling, role-play, and guided discussions support emotional literacy.

Self-Regulation Skills

Activities help children manage frustration, follow routines, and develop impulse control—essential skills for classroom success.

Social Skills Development

Children practice cooperation, sharing, turn-taking, and respectful communication through group projects and collaborative play.

Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

Educators guide children to resolve conflicts, consider consequences, and make thoughtful choices.

Cultural and Social Understanding

Through a strong social studies curriculum, children learn about families, communities, and social roles, reinforcing empathy and inclusion.

Benefits of Social Emotional Learning in Early Childhood Classrooms

Implementing a high-quality social emotional learning curriculum offers long-term benefits for children, educators, and families:

• Improved classroom behavior and engagement

• Stronger peer relationships

• Increased emotional resilience

• Enhanced readiness for kindergarten and beyond

• Better academic outcomes over time

When SEL is aligned with a meaningful social studies curriculum, children gain both emotional intelligence and social understanding—preparing them to thrive in school and life.

Supporting Educators and Families

A successful social emotional learning curriculum requires collaboration between educators and families. At Bank Street, professional development and family engagement are key components of curriculum success.

Educators are supported through:

• Reflective teaching practices

• Observation-based planning

• Ongoing professional learning

Families are encouraged to reinforce SEL skills at home through communication, routines, and shared experiences that mirror classroom learning.

Preparing Children for Lifelong Success

Social emotional learning is not just about managing emotions—it is about building confident, compassionate individuals who can navigate relationships and challenges effectively. When introduced early, SEL becomes a powerful foundation for lifelong learning.

By integrating a developmentally appropriate social emotional learning curriculum with a rich social studies curriculum, Bank Street helps children develop the skills they need to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a social emotional learning curriculum?

A social emotional learning curriculum is a structured approach that helps children develop emotional awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills through daily experiences and interactions.

Why is social emotional learning important in early childhood?

Early childhood is a critical period for emotional and social development. SEL supports mental well-being, positive behavior, and academic readiness.

How does social studies support social emotional learning?

A social studies curriculum helps children understand relationships, community roles, and cultural diversity, reinforcing empathy, cooperation, and social responsibility.

Is social emotional learning taught as a separate subject?

No. In high-quality programs like Bank Street, SEL is integrated across play, routines, storytelling, and classroom activities.

How does Bank Street approach social emotional learning?

Bank Street uses a child-centered, play-based, and relationship-driven approach that integrates SEL with academic and social studies learning.