Social-emotional health is the foundation for how children relate to others, manage emotions, and approach challenges. When nurtured, it helps students thrive academically, socially, and personally—at every age and stage of development.

What is Social-Emotional Health?

Social-emotional health includes a child’s ability to:

• Identify and manage emotions (e.g., recognizing when they feel anxious and using strategies to calm down)

• Build positive relationships (e.g., making friends, resolving conflicts respectfully)

• Show empathy for others (e.g., understanding how someone else is feeling)

• Set and achieve goals (e.g., staying focused during a project)

• Make responsible decisions (e.g., thinking through consequences before acting)

These skills are just as important as academic skills and are connected to lifelong success.

How Families Can Support Social-Emotional Growth

1. Build Daily Routines

Routines help children feel secure and reduce anxiety. Set regular times for waking up, doing homework, eating meals, and going to bed. Predictability gives kids a sense of control and stability.

2. Talk About Emotions Openly

Encourage your child to name what they’re feeling—“I’m sad,” “I’m nervous,” “I’m excited.” Labeling emotions helps children understand their feelings instead of being overwhelmed by them. Let them know that all feelings are valid—even the tough ones.

3. Model Healthy Behavior

Children notice how adults handle stress, disappointment, and conflict. Show them how to take deep breaths, apologize when needed, and talk through problems instead of yelling or shutting down.

4. Create Space for Connection

Take time every day—no matter how small—to check in with your child. Ask about their highs and lows, what made them laugh, or what was challenging. Family meals, walks, or bedtime talks are great opportunities for connection.

5. Encourage Problem-Solving

When challenges arise, instead of jumping in with a solution, ask questions like:

• “What do you think you can do about that?”

• “How did that make you feel?”

• “Is there another way to handle this next time?”

This helps children develop critical thinking and decision-making skills.

6. Promote Positive Self-Talk

Help your child replace negative thoughts like “I’m not good at this” with encouraging ones like “I’m still learning” or “I can try again.” Confidence grows when children feel supported while struggling.

7. Limit Screen Time and Encourage Active Play

Time spent outside, playing with others, or doing creative activities supports emotional well-being far more than passive screen time. Aim for balance, and include unstructured time for play.

When to Reach Out for Help

All children go through emotional ups and downs, but it’s important to know when more support may be needed. Some signs to watch for:

• Sudden changes in behavior (aggression, withdrawal, excessive fear)

• Trouble sleeping or eating

• Persistent sadness, irritability, or anxiety

• Difficulty focusing in school

• Avoiding social activities or family interactions

• Physical complaints (like stomachaches or headaches) with no medical cause

If you notice any of these signs for more than a few weeks, talk to your child’s teacher, school counselor, or pediatrician. Early support can make a big difference.

Mental Health Resources Through Schools

Public schools in California are increasingly offering mental health and wellness services, including:

• School counselors, social workers, or psychologists

• Small-group counseling for students

• Partnerships with community mental health providers

• Social-emotional learning (SEL) programs integrated into the classroom

• Wellness centers or calming spaces for students

• Translation services to support non-English-speaking families

Ask your school what services are available, how to access them, and how they support families.

You Are Not Alone

Supporting your child’s emotional well-being can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. Teachers, counselors, and school staff are there to partner with you. Small, everyday actions at home—like listening, checking in, and modeling kindness—can have a powerful impact over time.