Social – emotional skills are essential to healthy child development. By instilling empathy, self-regulation, and effective communication skills early on, we lay a sturdy foundation for success in school and in life.
This week, Casa West is exploring Second Step during circle time. Second Step is a compass guiding the children towards understanding emotions, developing problem-solving abilities, and establishing positive relationships. Through role-playing, storytelling, and collaborative projects, the children actively engage with Second Step concepts and are empowered to navigate the social landscape with an increasing sense of confidence, responsibility, and respectful behaviour.
Here’s how Second Step unfolds during this week’s circle time:
- Welcoming Rituals: We start circle time with warm and inclusive greetings, setting the tone for a supportive and caring environment. Second Step teaches us the importance of acknowledging each other’s presence with respect and kindness, making every child feel valued and appreciated from the moment they enter the circle.
- Storytelling: With captivating stories as our guide, we embark on imaginative journeys that explore themes of empathy, friendship, and understanding. Second Step stories spark meaningful conversations and inspire children to walk in someone else’s shoes, cultivating a deep sense of empathy.
- Emotion Exploration: Circle time provides a safe space for children to express and explore a colourful spectrum of emotions. Through engaging activities and interactive discussions, the children learn to identify, label, and regulate their feelings while fostering emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
- Cooperative Games: Weaving together laughter and learning, cooperative games bring the principles of teamwork and collaboration to life. The children are encouraged to work together towards common goals while practicing essential skills such as active listening, turn-taking, and problem-solving in a playful and supportive atmosphere.
- Reflection and Connection: As circle time draws to a close, we gather for a moment of reflection and connection. Children are invited to share their thoughts, experiences, and feelings, deepening their bonds with classmates and strengthening their sense of belonging in our classroom community.
6. Take-Home Messages: Before bidding farewell to circle time, we reinforce the key messages of Second Step that children can carry with them throughout their day, whether it’s a reminder to use kind words, lend a helping hand, or show empathy towards others.
