One job a child has in “growing up” is to learn how to control oneself in a social setting in order to get along with others. It is normal for children under three years old to struggle with impulse control and socially acceptable behaviors. As children develop and learn, adults in their lives can guide them to self discipline and socially acceptable behaviors. Adults can help children learn these social/emotional skills by providing an age appropriate environment that encourages social emotional learning.

The Social-Emotional Program at Sanford Children’s CHILD Services provides education and assistance to help adults provide an environment where children’s social emotional learning is encouraged. Services available through our Social Emotional Project include:

Services:

• Temperament assessments and consultations for children, caregivers and parents. By better understanding WHY people react the way they do to the world around them, it’s easier to accept their behavior, respect their concerns, and plan for their individual needs.
   
• Environmental observation of child care settings.   Social-emotional experts offer suggestions to help create environments that can adapt to each child’s individual needs.
   
• Social-emotional tools. Specific strategies assist caregivers and/or parents in their role of helping children develop the ability to understand their own feelings and skills in getting their needs met appropriately.
   
• Team consultations.  A Family Life Educator works with parents and child care providers to help develop an individualized plan for shaping behaviors based on individual and situational circumstances.

 Trainings:

• Training opportunities for licensed or registered child care providers.
   
• Class instructors strive to help caregivers obtain information and confidence in one's ability to provide quality care for children

Technical Assistance:

• CHILD Staff are available to do an on site observation.  This observation provides the means to develop an action plan to assist child care programs with program improvement efforts.

Aricles:

• Developing Your Child's Self-Esteem
   
• Helping Kids Cope with Stress
   
• Separation Anxiety
   
• Temper Tantrums

 To access services contact us at (605) 333-0698 or email us at childsrv@sanfordhealth.org