Fostering Social & Emotional Growth

As the first few months of school have unfolded at ADM, children are not only learning routines and classroom skills but also beginning an important journey of social and emotional growth. These early experiences with friendship, empathy, and self-regulation build the foundation for success both in school and beyond. Families play a powerful role in supporting this growth at home.

1. Supporting Emotional Expression

It’s normal for children to have big feelings during school. Some may feel tired after a busy day, while others may have lingering worries about separation. Create a safe space for your child to share feelings, even if they don’t have the words yet. Offering empathy— “It sounds like you felt sad when I left this morning”—helps children feel heard and understood.

2. Encouraging Problem-Solving

Disagreements with peers are natural learning opportunities. Instead of solving every problem for your child, guide them in thinking through solutions: “What could you say if you want a turn with that toy?” or “How can we fix this together?” These conversations build resilience and independence.

3. Modeling Empathy and Respect

Children notice how adults treat others. By modeling kindness, patience, and respect in your everyday interactions, you provide your child with real-life examples of positive social behavior. Even small acts—like holding a door or saying “thank you”—become lessons your child carries into the classroom.

4. Celebrating Growth

Acknowledge and celebrate small steps in social and emotional growth, such as introducing themselves to a new friend or calming down after a moment of frustration. These milestones build confidence and show your child that growth is a process to be proud of.

At ADM, we believe education is about nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally. By working together, teachers and families can help children build strong social connections, develop emotional resilience, and grow into kind, confident members of their community.