ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on learning through the emotions. Emotional well-being is now widely acknowledged as crucial. The Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Code of Practice in England points to the range of special educational needs and/or disabilities associated with children's emotional development. From an early age, children may become withdrawn, for example. They may display challenging, disruptive or disturbing behaviour. Play is one of the main ways that children learn about themselves and grow emotionally well. Emotional well-being comes about within positive, warm, loving relationships. Many educationalists have highlighted ways in which love plays a significant role in education. Children in settings with positive emotional climates are likely to develop positive relationships with the adults who care for them. A positive emotional climate also facilitates positive peer relationships. The physical environment of early years settings, including home settings, can support emotional education.
