It’s imperative to foster healthy emotional development in toddlers as early as possible so they can effectively communicate their feelings throughout their childhood and into adolescence. While toddlers develop several skills when interacting with other children at day care—including sharing and listening—you can kickstart your child’s emotional and social skills.

4 Emotional & Social Skills to Teach Your Toddler

1. Raise Your Child in a Nurturing Environment

For a child to be raised in an emotionally healthy environment, they must be shown the proper amount of love and affection. Express love to your child through hugs and praise, and spend plenty of quality time together. This creates a sound foundation for future emotional health. 

2. Provide Age-Appropriate Responsibilities

Chores are an effective way to introduce the concept of responsibility to your child. Make them responsible for a daily chore and offer ample praise when they perform it correctly. Not only does this build self-esteem, it also prepares your child for any responsibilities they’re afforded while attending day care. 

3. Set a Good Example

Your child will look to you for cues regarding social and emotional matters. Exhibit the proper behavior by fostering strong, healthy relationships with those around you. Emphasize the importance of civility and politeness by respecting others, especially when shopping or eating out. Most importantly, express your emotions in a healthy manner and encourage your child to do the same.

4. Teach Self-Awareness

Self-awareness is the act of recognizing your emotions as they occur. If you notice your child is frustrated, sit them down and talk about why. Provide a safe place for them to constructively discuss their emotions, even when they’re angry or sad. Talk about how to identify these emotions in the future and what she can do manage negative feelings. 

Imagination Childcare Academy, Inc. in Rochester, NY, promotes proper social-emotional development among children at their day care. These compassionate teachers also provide intensive childcare programs suited to kids aged 2 through 12, including science, math, and reading. They’ll even modify the day care schedule to help parents with irregular or hectic schedules. Learn more about their curriculum by visiting their website. Call (585) 413-3948 for more information on enrolling your child in this learning center.