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Updated with Practical Tips for Teachers and Managers
A child’s emotional development lays the foundation for lifelong learning, confidence, and wellbeing. A preschool that focuses on a child's emotional needs becomes more than just a learning space—it becomes a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment where children feel free to explore, express, and engage.
At Kindiedays, we believe every preschool can create such an emotionally rich learning environment. Here’s how, along with new practical tips you can implement today.
1. Build Close Relationships with Children
Strong, secure relationships between teachers and children form the foundation of a supportive and emotionally learning environment. When children feel safe, they are more likely to engage in play, learn new things, and form positive connections with others.
Simple Tip:
Use the child’s name often, especially during greetings and transitions. “Good morning, Aarav! I’m so happy to see you today!” A warm, personal greeting helps the child feel seen and valued.
NEW Practical Tip:
🌱 Create a “Feelings Check-In” board: Every morning, invite children to place their name or photo under “Happy,” “Sad,” “Excited,” or “Tired.” This builds emotional vocabulary and helps teachers connect individually with children who need support that day.
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2. Acknowledge and Support Children's Emotions
Emotions are natural—even strong or challenging ones. Children need space and support to express their feelings. Helping them label emotions gives them tools to communicate and manage their inner world.
Simple Tip:
Instead of saying “Don’t cry,” say “It’s okay to feel sad. I’m here with you.” This validates the child's emotions and helps them feel supported.
NEW Practical Tip:
🧸 Use storytelling to talk about emotions. Pick short stories with characters who feel sad, jealous, or frustrated. Pause and ask, “How do you think she feels? What could help her?” This builds empathy and awareness in a gentle, non-judgmental way.
3. Create a Calm and Predictable Environment
Children thrive in environments that feel safe and familiar. Predictable routines, calm voices, and soft transitions reduce anxiety and help children feel in control of their day.
Simple Tip:
Use picture schedules to help children see what comes next. Visuals help even non-verbal or shy children feel confident in navigating their day.
NEW Practical Tip:
🕯️ Add a 'quiet corner' or peace area with soft cushions, books, and sensory toys. Allow children to visit this space when they feel overwhelmed. It teaches them that calming down is a healthy choice.
4. Model Positive Social Behavior
Children learn by watching. If teachers model kindness, patience, and problem-solving skills, children will also develop these qualities.
Simple Tip:
Use phrases like “thank you,” “sorry,” and “please” frequently in real-life interactions with children and adults alike. Let children see how respectful communication looks and sounds.
NEW Practical Tip:
👐 Use role-play with puppets or dolls to act out common conflicts like “both want the same toy.” Involve children in finding peaceful solutions. Repeat weekly to reinforce peaceful behavior.
5. Involve Families in Emotional Learning
When schools and families work together, children benefit the most. Parents can support emotional development at home when they understand how it’s nurtured at school.
Simple Tip:
Share weekly updates with parents—photos, videos, or simple stories—showing how their child is learning to express and manage emotions.
NEW Practical Tip:
📱 Host a “Parent Emotion Workshop” on Zoom or WhatsApp where you discuss common preschool emotions and tips to respond lovingly. Use real classroom examples. It strengthens trust and partnership with families.
6. Empower Teachers to Reflect and Improve
Teachers need support, too. Reflecting on emotional interactions, sharing challenges, and learning new strategies makes them more confident and effective.
Simple Tip:
Conduct brief weekly teacher meetings (15–20 minutes) focused on children’s emotional well-being. Celebrate small wins and share helpful observations.
NEW Practical Tip:
📝 Encourage teachers to keep a short “Reflection Journal.” After a challenging moment with a child, ask:
- What happened?
- How did I respond?
- What could I try differently next time?
This builds emotional awareness and professional growth.
7. Celebrate Emotional Milestones
Just as learning to walk or count is a major achievement, learning to name your feelings or resolve a conflict is also a significant accomplishment.
Simple Tip:
Praise children specifically: “You shared your toy with Riya—that was very kind.” Clear feedback reinforces positive behavior.
NEW Practical Tip:
🎉 Create a “Star of the Week” for emotional growth: Recognize children who showed kindness, empathy, or managed a big emotion well. Give them a sticker and a short story to take home.
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Summary: The Emotional Environment Matters
Preschools that prioritize emotional learning help children become:
- Confident learners
- Empathetic friends
- Happy individuals
By creating a nurturing emotional environment, you provide children with the tools to thrive—not just academically, but also socially and emotionally.
Whether you’re a preschool owner, school leader, or teacher, remember: small, consistent actions build big emotional foundations.
How Kindiedays Can Help
Kindiedays supports preschools in building emotional learning environments through:
- 📱 Digital documentation tools to capture learning moments and share them with parents
- 🎓 Teacher workshops focused on emotional and social development
- 📚 Playful lesson plans aligned with emotional goals and child development stages
Let us help you bring the best of Finnish early childhood practices to your school—adapted to your local culture and curriculum.
🎯 Book a FREE Demo Today
In just 30 minutes, we’ll show you how your preschool can start using Kindiedays – easily and affordably.
Discover how Kindiedays can transform your preschool into a center of excellence.
👉 Click here to schedule a demo on Zoom or contact me on WhatsApp!
I look forward to meeting you.
Milla van der Burgh
PS Join our official WhatsApp group 👉 click here to join the group!
👉 Contact us to learn more about how Kindiedays can support your preschool.