ABCs, 1-2-3s, and Big Feelings: Why Social-Emotional Learning in Critical in Early Education

This podcast episode explores the significance of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in early childhood education. Host Esmeralda Cortez Rosales engages with experts Pam Cajucom and Lolade Gbadebo to discuss the importance of SEL, its impact on children's development, and practical strategies for parents and educators to incorporate SEL in daily interactions with children. 

Pam is a School Health Education Consultant charged with leading Social Emotional Learning and Mental Health, at  the California Department of Education’s Office of School-Based Health Program in the Whole Child Division. Prior to taking on this role in October 2023, Pam gained over 20 years' experience implementing and coordinating student support centers serving the behavioral health needs of students and families. She received her master’s degree in clinical psychology (with a marriage/family/child emphasis) from Pepperdine University, her School Counseling Degree at CSU Sacramento, and holds a Pupil Personnel Services credential. Lolade is a mother to a 5-year-old child who recently started kindergarten. Lolade also plays a crucial role in the community, serving as a children’s librarian. Her library directly serves two elementary schools. 

The conversation highlights the role of emotional intelligence, the necessity of preparing children for transitions, and the value of building connections through shared experiences. The episode concludes with Lolade sharing book recommendations that can aid in teaching SEL concepts to young children.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

02:33 The Importance and Impact of SEL

07:56 Preparing Children for Transitions: A Parent's Perspective

13:31 Implementing SEL in Early Childhood Education

19:51 Real-Life Applications of SEL in Schools

26:37 Building Connections Through SEL

32:59 Practical Tips for Parents

36:23 Book Recommendations from Lolade

Resources: 

-Providing Mental Health Education to Students is Critical and Achievable (Issue Brief) 

-https://toolboxproject.com/ 

-SEL book recommendations: 

• One Upside-Downy Day
• The Crayons’ Book of Feelings
• Breathe Like a Bear
• After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again)
• Ally All Along
• The Color Monster