Early childhood is a critical period for developing not only cognitive skills like language and maths, but also essential social skills. Research increasingly shows that cooperation, empathy, and emotional intelligence play a central role in a child’s overall development. These abilities, learned early on, enable children to work effectively with others, understand emotions, and build meaningful relationships. Strong social skills support not only immediate interactions but also lay a foundation for lifelong success, well-being, and societal integration. A holistic education approach ensures that emotional and social development is nurtured alongside academic learning, helping children grow into well-rounded individuals.
Emotional development starts early
Emotional intelligence begins developing even before birth. From infancy, babies naturally seek affection and care, communicating through cries and vocalisations while recognising emotional expressions in caregivers. During early childhood, a child’s brain undergoes rapid development, shaping their capacity to form social and emotional connections. Early positive interactions filled with affection and understanding create a sense of emotional security. By contrast, repeated exposure to fear or rejection can lead to reactive behaviours that may impact future relationships.
Encouraging open discussions about emotions helps children recognise, understand, and manage their feelings. This practice builds their emotional vocabulary and regulation skills, contributing to social confidence and resilience. In nurturing environments, children learn to express emotions healthily, which is crucial for interpersonal relationships and long-term mental well-being.
As children grow, their social environment expands, requiring them to interact with peers and adults. Skills such as taking turns, showing empathy, and expressing feelings are fundamental to these interactions. Children who communicate effectively tend to be better equipped to handle emotions, resolve conflicts, and approach problems creatively. These abilities foster positive peer interactions and mutual respect, essential for forming strong relationships.
Children often learn social skills through adult modelling and support. Observing adults express empathy, resolve conflicts, and collaborate helps them internalise these behaviours. Positive reinforcement from teachers and caregivers strengthens a child’s ability to navigate social situations, ensuring they understand the importance of cooperation and respect.
Early exposure to empathy and cooperation benefits children beyond school. Understanding different perspectives, negotiating differences, and seeking compromises enhances conflict resolution and group cohesion, positively impacting both academic and social settings.
Role of educators in building social skills:
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The quality and tone of teacher interactions with children, colleagues, and wider staff, as these shape the social climate and model pro-social behaviour
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How educators recognise, interpret, and respond to children’s negative emotions, ensuring responses are sensitive, attuned, and developmentally appropriate
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The strategies teachers use to support children in identifying, articulating, and regulating their emotions, including the modelling of language, emotional literacy, and constructive coping skills
The FinlandWay® education system emphasises a play-based pedagogy, placing children at the centre of their learning experiences. Through themed projects and interactive play, children develop social and emotional skills naturally. Play encourages sharing, negotiating, and communication, fostering emotional intelligence and cooperation. By integrating holistic education principles, FinlandWay® ensures that emotional growth is nurtured alongside intellectual development.
Role-play and storytelling are integral to the FinlandWay® approach, helping children explore emotions and empathy. By acting out different roles and discussing characters’ feelings, children learn to appreciate diverse perspectives. This immersive, interactive method reinforces empathy, encouraging children to support one another and build strong social bonds that enhance learning.
Tips for parents: supporting emotional skills at home
Parents play a vital role in nurturing their children’s social and emotional development. Validating emotions and showing that every feeling is acceptable helps children build emotional security. For example, acknowledging frustration or disappointment and encouraging constructive expression reinforces healthy emotional habits.
What to take into consideration at home?
- Encourage open conversations – Discuss daily experiences to help children reflect on emotions.
- Use storytelling and media – Read books and watch children’s programmes together, discussing characters’ emotions to strengthen empathy.
- Promote turn-taking and teamwork – Board games and shared household tasks teach collaboration and communication.
- Reinforce positive behaviour – Acknowledge and praise cooperation, showing children the value of working together.
Teaching empathy and cooperation in early childhood has lasting effects. These skills influence not only a child’s ability to form friendships but also their broader social integration and future success. A strong foundation in emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills helps children navigate challenges, maintain relationships, and engage positively in society.
By focusing on emotional awareness and social cooperation from an early age, children develop respectful, empathetic connections with others. A holistic education approach ensures that they grow into individuals who can balance emotional intelligence with academic and practical skills. As they grow, they become better equipped to contribute positively to communities and workplaces, embracing values of teamwork, empathy, and mutual respect, which are essential for a cohesive and compassionate society.
Want to know more about the FinlandWay® method?
