Our exploration of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is drawing to a close, with today being our final chapter. We have previously discussed the importance of integrating SEL practices into daily life with our children. We have also suggested some useful tools and guides to aid you in making this life-changing goal possible. We want to wrap this topic up by delving into some of the obstacles parents may face while working to adjust to their new SEL routines. These challenges in integrating SEL practices can be navigated with a bit of problem-solving and patience.
Join us as we navigate through obstacles such as time constraints, emotional resistance, and the seemingly endless draw of technology. With the proper responses in place, these obstacles will become mere bumps in the road.
Resistance and Time Constraints
Not all children will be naturally geared toward SEL. Older kiddos and those with a wider range of emotions can take a bit of extra nudging. It’s not uncommon for children to resist new practices, and with the busy schedules families have, integrating SEL can be a delicate balancing act. The solution? Start small and make it fun! You might begin with just a few moments of SEL practices each day, slowly incorporating them into activities your child already enjoys. For instance, you can have your child discuss both their feelings and the feelings of the characters after reading a bedtime story or watching a movie together. Feeling-themed games are also a great tool. SEL activities don’t need to be overly time-consuming. A little SEL practice goes a long way!
Consistency Challenges
Maintaining consistency with new routines can be difficult. When it comes to SEL, the key is weaving it into your family’s daily life rather than treating it as an additional task. Not every task has to be elaborate. Create visual reminders, such as post-it notes with affirmations or emotional words to place around the house. These simple items encourage SEL practices. Simply making an effort to incorporate some of these tools into your day-to-day life will make a big difference.
Navigating Technology
For many of us, finding a balance between technology and everyday living can be difficult. Society is often dependent upon electronic devices. We are often bombarded and dominated by screens and digital distractions. However, what if we consider using technology to our advantage? Using technology to explore apps and online resources that offer guided mindfulness exercises, emotion-based activities, and family-oriented activities could be a game changer! These are fun and engaging ways to incorporate SEL while embracing the technology-driven world.
Modeling SEL
Sometimes, parents may worry about modeling emotional intelligence themselves. It’s important to remember that it’s always okay to show vulnerability and growth. If you make a mistake or struggle with managing your emotions, share that with your child. Include them in your conversations and discuss how you’re working on improving and seeking solutions. Many adults feel that they shouldn’t show weakness or admit when they make a mistake. This is simply not the case. Being open with your child about age-appropriate struggles can help them see you as more relatable and trustworthy. The ability to share your humility and self-awareness is a wonderful component of SEL.
Patience is Key
Finally, when incorporating SEL practices, patience is your biggest ally. Changes in routine and activities can take time, and progress is gradual in nature. So, find time to celebrate even small victories along the way. Every time you see or hear your child open up about their feelings or demonstrate empathy, it is a step forward! There are many small ways that these intentional moments spent with your child will prove to be beneficial. So, be patient and stay positive!
As you face challenges, remember that the journey of incorporating SEL into your parenting style is a marathon, not a sprint. Embrace the process, celebrate the wins, and adapt your approach as needed. By persistently fostering emotional intelligence, you are nurturing the future emotional well-being of your children and society.
References/Resources
- CASEL – Core Competencies of SEL ↩
- Raising Children Network – Strategies to Encourage Positive Behaviour ↩
- Psychology Today – 8 Strategies to Boost Family Connection ↩
- Common Sense Media – Best Apps to Teach Kids About Feelings ↩
- Greater Good Magazine – The Power of Admitting When You Don’t Know ↩
- Family Lives – Building Emotional Intelligence in Children ↩