ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the author discusses social and emotional wellbeing in the primary years. She investigates the topics generally covered within social and emotional learning programs in the primary school. The author recognises the role of teachers in teaching social and emotional development. She discusses the importance of peers in developing social and emotional skills. She explores ways to include social and emotional learning within the curriculum. Social and emotional wellbeing is increasingly being recognised by educators as critical to support students’ academic learning. Emotions and how students approach tasks can ‘facilitate or impede [their] academic engagement, work ethic, commitment, and ultimate school success’. Positive peer relationships can help students to feel a sense of belonging to the school and positively connect them to staff and other students, which in turn becomes a protective factor for ensuring emotional wellbeing and resilience.
