The first five years play a crucial role in every child’s development. During this important time, children make incredible progress in their motor skills, communication and language, and social and emotional growth. When families start to think about formal schooling, a child’s social and emotional development is especially important. This involves how children begin to understand themselves, recognise and manage their feelings, and know what to expect when interacting with others.
During this stage, children are learning to:
- Start and maintain friendships
- Identify, express, and handle their emotions
- Explore their surroundings with growing curiosity
Positive social and emotional development is important during this stage of a child’s life.
Why? Because when children understand who they are and where they fit in the world, it supports:
- Self-confidence
- Empathy
- Resilience
- Friendships
Developing strong social and emotional skills can impact children’s success both in and out of the classroom. National and international research consistently finds that the most important factor for a smooth start to school, and for later achievement in school and beyond, is being socially and emotionally ready.
Supporting Social and Emotional Growth at Guardian
Our two-year Flying Start to School Preschool/Kindergarten program is designed to set children up for lifelong learning and wellbeing. Our unique To BE Me curriculum supports your child’s growth in seven key learning areas:
- Being/Becoming A Great Thinker
- Being/Becoming A Reader
- Being/Becoming A Writer
- Being/Becoming A Counter
- Being/Becoming a Good Friend
- Being/Becoming A Mover
- Being/Becoming Me
While literacy and numeracy are essential, in our unique learning programs, we go further. Our teams are committed to nurturing each child’s social and emotional wellbeing. We know that children who are confident and secure are much better able to learn, setting them up not just for a successful transition to school, but for life.
How our programs support social and emotional development
Our Being/Becoming Me development pathways helps children:
- Feel, express, and manage their emotions in healthy ways
- Explore their environment with increasing curiosity and confidence
Being/Becoming a Good Friend empowers them to:
- Build positive relationships
- Learn empathy, cooperation, and respect
What Does our Flying Start to School program look like?
- First Year (3–4-year-olds):
We nurture confidence and independence. Children are encouraged to share ideas, try new things, learn from mistakes, and celebrate personal progress in a safe, supportive environment. This early foundation allows children to become enthusiastic, resilient learners who believe in themselves.
- Second Year (4–5-year-olds):
The focus shifts to building a strong sense of identity. We encourage children to be brave, participate actively, and know they are a valued member of both their learning space, and the wider community.
Our flexible, responsive curriculum guides our Teachers to cater for each child’s learning style, background, and interests. We support every child build strong social and emotional skills so they can thrive not just at school, but at work and throughout life.
“We know Guardian children will be prepared with the skills to cope with change and to remain curious. They will be able to take initiative, become involved, work collaboratively with others and to take on leadership roles. They will be willing to try new things and will be the problem solvers and innovative thinkers our world will need.”
Kathryn Waugh, Guardian Head of Quality and Curriculum
Tips for Supporting Your Child Before School
How else can you help your child’s social and emotional growth? Here are some effective ways:
- Show affection: Hug, talk, sing together, and give your child your full attention.
- Encourage independence: Give your child chances to try new things while offering gentle support nearby. For example, encourage self-dressing.
- Allow for ‘unhurried time’: Give plenty of time for tasks like putting on shoes, building skills and confidence.
- Lead by example: Show your child how to listen, take turns, and resolve conflict calmly.
Most importantly, remember every child is unique and full of potential, developing in their own way and at their own pace. With your support, their transition to school can be a happy and positive experience.
At Guardian, we’re here to help your family make the most of this special time. Children only get to experience this age once, and they deserve to enjoy every moment. Together, families, teachers, and educators play a vital role in giving children the best start possible by nurturing every aspect of their development.
Learn more about our Flying Start to School Preschool/Kindergarten program and how we can support your child’s learning and growth.