Young Children's Social Emotional Learning

'The potency of the COPE - Resilience Program for Preschoolers comes from several aspects. Firstly, it has been subjected to rigorous research for several years. Secondly, built up as a joint endeavour between researchers and early childhood teachers, it has been made more powerful because of the inclusion of input from children and families. Likewise, Erica Frydenberg’s resilience expertise, when combined with Jan Dean’s expertise in early childhood education, is the perfect combination when applying theory to practice in supporting young children’s social and emotional development in the early years. They have been well supported by Rachel Liang, a psychologist with first-hand experience of running school-based wellbeing programs, and thereby strengthening the practice focus of this manual. Finally, in locating it within the innovative pedagogy and programs at the world renown Early Learning Centre at the University of Melbourne, affirms the authentic impact of this values-based resilience platform.

Frydenberg, Deans and Liang present a thoughtfully designed child centred programme of learning activities appropriate for children aged four to eight years, with modifications for three year olds. The target audience of early childhood teachers, well placed to provide leadership in nurturing young children’s empathy and prosocial skills, will welcome its user-friendly format in adapting it for their specific context. The authors are congratulated for their initiative in producing an effective learning resource that can boost young children’s social and emotional wellbeing through resilience. In a rapidly evolving world, dominated by uncertainty and conflict, we can all benefit from fostering resilience amongst our youngest citizens.' -- Manjula Waniganayake, Professor of Early Childhood Education. Macquarie University, Australia

'In these VUCA times, it has become even more important to be emotionally attuned to self and others, to be able to cope with changes and uncertainties, to be resilient, and to care for each other as a community. Our future generation would benefit from these knowledge and skills to thrive and flourish, and COPE-Resilience is an example of a program that can help to support our children to do so.' -- Ms Dominique Pang, MED Psych Practicing Psychologist/Researcher in Singapore

'Learning to cope with day-to-day challenges is a vital skill for all children and a core competency carried through life. COPE-R provides a theory-rich and evidence-grounded preventative approach that ensures this important skill is nurtured and supported at a critical time in childhood development. The potential benefits are lifelong.' -- Dr Kelly-Ann Allen, Senior Lecturer Educational Psychology and Inclusive Education, Faculty of Education, Monash University