Emotional Awareness

Learning to plant seeds not only helps us learn about the environment but also connects us with the idea of nurturing and care. It can symbolize love and patience, as we watch the seeds grow over time. Plus, it is a hands-on way to learn about responsibility and the natural world.

Planting seeds, both literally and metaphorically, can serve as a powerful tool for fostering emotional awareness in us. Just as we nurture a seed to grow, we can learn to nurture relationships and recognize feelings in us and others. This process teaches us patience, care, and the importance of tending to something over time - skills that translate into emotional awareness.

For instance, we may observe that plants need regular care, attention, and understanding of our environment to thrive, much like friendships or emotional well-being. This can prompt us to reflect on how others may need our care or support in different ways, especially when friends are struggling or feeling discomforted.

Additionally, as we care for a plant, we may become more attuned to the subtle sign of change, whether in the plant's health or in the feelings of those around us. The process of watching a seed grow can help us develop patience and empathy as we learn to read and respond to emotions more effectively.

During one of our ordinary moments, Kai is observed to be quick in attending to Kalyan during our walking or jumping over an obstacle learning experience. Kai realizes that Kalyan is feeling uncomfortable about something. 

It is so heartwarming indeed! It seems like Kai has developed a great sense of empathy and attentiveness towards Kalyan. This kind of behavior shows emotional awareness and a natural inclination to support others, which is such an important life skill.

It also sounds like the learning experience with walking or jumping over obstacles is helping to foster not just physical skills but also emotional and social progress. In this case, Kai's ability to pick up on Kalyan's feelings could also strengthen their friendship.

One of the practical and fun ways to learn about respecting our and others' feelings by setting boundaries is through the above song. It helps us realize it is okay to set limits about what makes us feel comfortable or uncomfortable emotionally. 

This song teaches us to recognize when someone else may need space or not want to share something, helping us understand how to be considerate of others' needs. As much as we love revisiting, singing a purposeful song over and over helps reinforce these ideas in a way that sticks with us. 

Nora explains, in her own words, "A boundary is about when you do something right!" That's a great way for Nora to explain boundaries! Learning that boundaries are about doing something right helps us understand that boundaries are not about being strict or limiting - they are about respect, kindness, and knowing what is okay and what is not. 

​Fides adds by saying, "Please stop!"  and further communicates that others shall mention respectively when someone is crossing their personal boundaries. These words help us express our feelings in a direct and assertive manner. To reinforce this, we implement the above where we do not feel comfortable, and also to acknowledge and respect when others say it.

​​It is like when we do not touch others' works without asking or when we ask others' consents prior to working with the same resources which currently being used. By explaining it this way, we learn that boundaries guide us to do what is kind, respectful, and fair to others, making it easier for us to understand how boundaries are part of living together in a way that makes everyone feel good!

We include yoga as a wonderful way to learn about personal boundaries, both physically and emotionally! Yoga emphasizes body awareness, respect for oneself, and respect for others, which all align with understanding and setting healthy boundaries.

Today our classroom is buzzing with energy as we watch and move along with the "Go Go (Stop!) | Movement Song for Kids" video. The catchy tune and engaging visuals not only captivate our attention but also serves as a playful introduction to the concept of boundaries. In the midst of dancing and following cues, the moment when we are told to "stop" provides a clear, tangible example of respecting limits.

​The "Go Go (Stop!)" movement song helps us understand boundaries by teaching us to listen, stop on cue, and be aware of our personal space and actions. Through the learning experience, we learn not only about physical boundaries but also emotional and social limits, fostering a sense of respect for others. This simple approach encourages self-regulation, making rules feel like helpful guidelines that support healthy social interactions. 

We then introduce "Red Light Green Light | Freeze Dance | Toddler Musical Statues" by READY SET DANCE. This energetic freeze dance transforms the classic game into a dynamic learning experience where we practice our listening skills and body control. As we move with the rhythm and freeze on cue, the learning experience provides another opportunity to explore how simple signals can guide behavior and maintain order in a shared space.

​Together, these two videos create a holistic approach to movement and learning in early childhood education. They help us develop motor skills, enhance our ability to follow directions, and understand both physical and emotional boundaries in a joyful, interactive way. By incorporating these engaging songs into our daily routine, we not only foster a fun and active environment but also lay the groundwork for essential life skills like self-regulation and mutual respect.

During story time, we read Amy is Famous, a book that helps us thinking about sharing space, listening to others and about boundaries.

We take turns sharing how we are feeling today. When is Kalyan's turn, he pauses to say, "Lost, because I missed my mommy". His words show a deep awareness of his emotions, he is naming a feeling, offering it to the group and inviting connection.

We listen closely to Amy's words and actions. When Amy speaks unkindly about Cecile, we ask why Amy expresses in that way. Pranssi says, "Amy is feeling jealous about that girl." Through Amy, we explore the complexity of feelings, how someone's actions may come from something deeper.  By naming jealousy, Pranssi opens the door for the group to think about emotions beyond what is seen on the surface.

Amy as a character, wants to be seen as "strong" even when she is feeling sad, so she says famous people don't cry. Nora reacts immediately, "People cry, everyone cries. They always have different feelings, and animals too." We are learning to see vulnerability as strength, recognizing that expressing feelings is an essential part of being.

​We introduce Pepito the marionette, during our learning experience, to bring different scenarios where Pepito, as a child, expresses. "I'm not in the mood to give a hug." The idea of respecting personal space is brought into focus.

Pranssi, always thoughtful, "I will say I can give a hug, then corrects and says, I will say that, okay," as she processes the idea of respecting Pepito's space.  Self-correction and respect helps us understand that emotions and personal boundaries are important and can be communicated in thoughtful ways.

We want to see how we react to this new scenario. Pepito says he is a new child and he is feeling a little shy, but he wants to fit in this group. Nora with her thoughtful nature, responds warmly, "That's ok. First day I was in Children & Friends I was a little shy because I was worried that my mommy and daddy wouldn't pick me up." Nora is connecting her own experience of shyness with Pepito's feelings. She shares a moment of vulnerability, showing that it's okay to feel nervous in a new place and that others, even friends , may have similar feelings. 

Just as the conversation settles, Fides suddenly looks up and says, "Melissa, let me tell you something, If Donald Trump can control the United States, he can control the whole world because the US is strong." The shift is unexpected but natural. Our thoughts move freely, connecting and disconnecting in surprising ways. One moment, we are immersed in emotions; the next, we are making sense of the world around us.

As we sing the song "If I don't want to be touched I say NO", we join in, repeating the lyrics that emphasize the importance of respecting personal boundaries: "Because my body belongs to me, please respect my boundaries." The song serves as a tool to help us understand the concept of personal space and how to assert our needs in a respectful way.

During outdoor time, Tvisha demonstrates a beautiful act of kindness when she notices Pranssi doesn't have her boots on and decides to bring them to her. Tvisha ensures that Pranssi can comfortably continue to play and enjoy the outdoor experience. 

Tvisha enjoys a joyful moment when Luka gives her a ride in the car. As Luka pushes the car, Tvisha beams with happiness and smiles brightly. This moment connect to the broader themes of kindness and connection explored earlier, she now experiences the joy of being included and cared for by Luka. ​

Throughout the day, we demonstrate a rich tapestry of emotional awareness, kindness, and connection, engaging deeply with one another. Each interaction through helping a friend, expressing happiness, or exploring boundaries, create a space where we feel safe, valued, and connected.

Kindest,
Children & Friends.