How Emotions Affect Learning

As parents, we all want the best for our children. We want them to do well in school, make friends easily, and grow into confident, happy adults. But there's one important factor that often gets overlooked: emotions. How our kids feel can really impact how they learn and develop.

Studies, like the one from the Educational Endowment Fund, show that social and emotional learning (SEL) approaches can lead to an average of 4 months’ additional progress in academic outcomes over the course of an academic year.

Understanding and managing emotions is vital for a child's learning process and overall development. When children learn to recognise and deal with their feelings, they're better equipped to handle the ups and downs of school life and beyond.

The Importance of Emotional Literacy

Emotional literacy is the ability to recognise, name, and express feelings.

We love this resource from the National Council for Special Education, that's free to download.

For children, especially those aged 7-16, learning to understand their feelings is really important because when children can figure out what they're feeling, they can handle their emotions better, which leads to better outcomes in their learning.

This is what My Primary & Secondary Tutor's Emotions First program focuses on - teaching children about their emotions, helping them build a strong foundation for understanding and managing their feelings.

Exploring the Reasons Behind Emotions

Recognising emotions is just the first step. It's equally important to explore why these emotions happen. For example, children might feel anxious before a test or frustrated with tough homework.

Here are some ways you can support your child to identify the 'shy' behind their feelings:

Talk to Your Child: Ask them how they feel and why. Listen without interrupting.
Create a Calm Space: Make a quiet area at home where your child can relax and reflect on their feelings.
Use Simple Questions: Ask questions like, "What made you feel this way?" or "Can you tell me more about what happened?"

At My Primary & Secondary Tutor, we go beyond just recognising emotions. We help children and parents understand how these feelings affect their daily lives.

This insight is crucial for creating a positive learning environment where children feel supported and understood. By exploring the reasons behind emotions, we can better help our kids manage their feelings and succeed in school.

Practical Solutions for Managing Emotions

Once children are able to recognise and understand their emotions, the next step is learning how to manage them in a positive way. The Emotions First program gives children practical tools and strategies to handle their feelings. For example, deep breathing exercises can help calm anxiety, and positive self-talk can boost confidence.

These skills help children face challenges with resilience, enabling them to thrive both in school and in their personal lives.

For more tips on helping your child manage their emotions, check out this free resource from Action for Children.

Building Confidence and a Positive Mindset

When children learn to manage their emotions effectively, they build confidence and develop a positive mindset about themselves and their learning journey. This change can be incredible. A child who believes in their abilities is more likely to participate actively in class, tackle difficult subjects, and achieve academic success. Emotions First helps children believe in themselves, setting them on a path to greatness.

The Role of Emotions in Learning

Emotions play a crucial role in learning because they directly impact how children absorb and process information. A child who is anxious or stressed may find it hard to concentrate or remember information. On the other hand, a child who feels emotionally secure and supported is more likely to engage in learning actively and effectively. Emotions affect motivation, attention, and memory – all key parts of the learning process.

In summary, understanding and managing emotions is essential for a child's learning and overall development. By prioritizing emotional literacy, exploring the reasons behind emotions, and providing practical solutions for positive management, we can help children build confidence and reach their full potential.

Emotions First is not just a program; it's a revolutionary approach to online tutoring that prioritises your child's mental health and learning success. Don't miss out on the chance to give your child the tools they need for emotional and academic growth. Sign up for the Emotions First waitlist for the new academic year and secure your spot today!