When you choose The Gardner School, you aren’t just providing your preschooler with a stellar education and the opportunity to learn from highly-skilled professional teachers. You are giving your child one of the greatest gifts there is: the time and space to forge new social relationships. These relationships may develop into lifelong friendships or might only span a few years. Either way, preschool friendships are vital for children because they nurture social-emotional learning skills and growth. Here are five ways preschool friendships help your child:
1. Friendships Enhance Quality of Life
Humans are inherently social, and friendships play a crucial role in a child’s sense of belonging and emotional security, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety. Child psychologists have found that early childhood friendships significantly enhance a child’s overall quality of life, supporting their ability to adapt to new and changing environments.
2. Friendships Build Confidence
Knowing that a friend is nearby can empower your child to explore new activities, share ideas, and express themselves freely. This boost in confidence helps them thrive both in and out of the classroom. If your child is shy, check out our tips for helping them feel more comfortable and confident in new situations.
3. Friendships Teach Social Skills
Friendships play a significant role in developing essential social skills such as cooperation, communication, sharing, patience, and kindness. Social-emotional learning (SEL) is a key component of the curriculum at The Gardner School. Integrating SEL into the classroom has been associated with improvements in overall academic performance, reading skills, and relationship building.
4. Friendships Enhance Learning
One of the best ways for your child to learn social skills is by introducing them to new friends through a vibrant school community. The Gardner School understands the importance of fostering friendships among preschoolers. Our teachers work hard to build strong bonds with each student to create a supportive environment where children can experience the joys of learning together.
Encouraging Friendships at The Gardner School
If you’re looking for a local preschool that prioritizes both academic excellence and social-emotional development, The Gardner School is here to support your family. Contact us today to learn how we can help your child thrive.