Family Resources: Supporting SEL at Home

Families are important partners in social and emotional development. Parents and caregivers can support SEL by creating opportunities for children to talk about emotions and practice self-regulation.

For Infants

 

  • Respond to cries and needs with patience.
  • Use a calm voice when comforting children.
  • Create consistent routines.
  • Talk, sing, and read together.

 

For Young Children 

 

  • Ask, "How are you feeling today?"
  • Help children name their emotions.
  • Practice deep breathing together.
  • Encourage sharing and taking turns.
  • Praise children when they use positive self-regulation skills.

 

For Adolescents

 

  • Make time for regular conversations.
  • Listen without immediately judging or criticizing.
  • Encourage healthy sleep, exercise, and technology habits.
  • Help teens set realistic goals.
  • Watch for significant changes in mood or behavior.
  • Take concerns about self-harm or suicide seriously and seek professional help when needed.

 

The most important thing families can provide is a safe and supportive relationship. Children and teenagers need to know that they can talk to trusted adults when they are experiencing difficult emotions.