How The Schoolhouse's G.E.M.S Programme Transforms Social Emotional Learning for Preschoolers in Singapore
Preschoolers in Singapore
Early Childhood Education Articles 
In today’s fast-paced world, raising children in a holistic manner is more crucial than ever. Parents in the 21st century understand the importance of nurturing not just their child’s intellectual abilities (IQ) but also their emotional intelligence (EQ). This holistic approach ensures children develop into well-rounded individuals capable of thriving in various aspects of life.
As a result, there has been a noticeable shift in parental preferences [1], with a growing emphasis on social emotional learning (SEL) in preschools in Singapore as a vital component of early childhood education. Recognising this need, The Schoolhouse has introduced the G.E.M.S programme, an innovative approach to fostering emotional and social development in young children. This programme is designed to prepare children for the challenges of life, both academically and emotionally, through a curriculum tailored to their needs.
Children’s Mental Health and Social Emotional Learning: More Than Just A Trend
The focus on social and emotional intelligence might seem like a modern trend, but it is a fundamental part of human development. Over recent years, there has been a growing understanding of the need to balance academic achievement with emotional development programmes for young children. Social emotional learning equips children with the skills necessary to navigate human interactions, manage emotions and foster positive relationships.
Parents now aim for a holistic education, ensuring their children succeed academically while developing strong social emotional skills. This includes fostering emotional regulation for preschool children. When children learn to self-regulate, manage emotions and interact positively with others, they are better equipped to thrive in academic and social settings, as well as in their personal lives. both inside and outside the classroom. By introducing the G.E.M.S programme, we offer a curriculum that aligns with the growing demand for social emotional learning in early childhood education.
What is G.E.M.S?
The G.E.M.S programme (Growing & Regulating Emotions, Expressing Individuality, Mindful Connections and being Socially Equipped) is a structured approach to emotional and social learning. It is designed to provide children with a foundation of emotional intelligence, helping them thrive in both school and social environments. The curriculum spans four terms, covering eight essential topics that emphasise empathy, emotional awareness and teamwork.
Through the G.E.M.S programme, children learn to not only identify and manage their emotions but also to develop social awareness and empathy. These skills are crucial for positive interactions with others, making this curriculum an essential part of early childhood education.
Examples of Social emotional learning activities in G.E.M.S
- Emotion Expression Activities: Children participate in activities where they explore and express different emotions. For example, they might create artwork depicting how they feel in different situations, which helps them connect their emotions to actions. This encourages constructive expression, laying a strong foundation for emotional learning.
- Community and Teamwork Projects: To foster a sense of community and collaboration, children engage in group projects. For instance, they might work together to create a “kindness tree” where each leaf represents acts of kindness, building their empathy and cooperation skills. These activities also help children appreciate the importance of teamwork and social harmony.
- Role-Playing and Social Problem-Solving: Role-playing helps children practise resolving conflicts and making decisions that reflect honesty and respect for others. These scenarios provide a safe environment to develop social emotional skills like empathy, self-regulation, and responsible decision-making, which are essential for their personal and social development.
Benefits of Social Emotional Learning through G.E.M.S
- Enhanced Academic Performance: Children with strong SEL skills tend to perform better academically. When they can manage their emotions and stay focused on tasks, they become more motivated and engaged learners. SEL supports their ability to stay on track and succeed in school.
- Improved Behaviour: By learning concepts like empathy, self-regulation, and positive social interaction, children develop better behaviour patterns. The G.E.M.S programme encourages active listening, effective communication, and conflict resolution, all of which reduce behavioural problems and create more harmonious classroom dynamics.
- Better Mental Health: Early development of social emotional skills sets the stage for lifelong mental health. Children who understand their emotions and can regulate them are less likely to experience anxiety and stress. The G.E.M.S programme helps them develop coping mechanisms that contribute to mental well-being, resilience, and balance.
“Emotional intelligence begins to develop in the earliest years. All the small exchanges children have with their parents, teachers, and with each other carry emotional messages.” – Daniel Goleman
As Daniel Goleman, American psychologist and science journalist suggests, emotional intelligence is built through every interaction a child has. The G.E.M.S programme at The Schoolhouse is designed to support this growth, incorporating mindful learning activities for preschoolers that promote social and emotional intelligence. The programme ensures children are not only prepared academically but also emotionally equipped to face life’s challenges [4]. Through activities that emphasise emotional learning, the G.E.M.S programme nurtures children into well-rounded individuals ready to face the future with confidence.
By investing in social emotional learning (SEL), we invest in a future where children can excel both academically and socially.
Ready to give your child the best start in life? Contact us to learn more about the G.E.M.S programme and how it can nurture your child’s emotional and social development.
