Being able to socialise, feel part of a community and have a strong sense of self are important for children. Children whose social and emotional development needs are atypical are in danger of being ‘excluded’ by adults and other children. Understanding ways in which we can foster children’s emotional and social development and support their mental health is therefore essential.
STARTING POINTS
Children also have a basic emotio-nal need to be loved and accepted by others. This forms the basis of social interaction and also positively supports mental health. Children’s ability to learn as well as to achieve their potential is closely tied to their social, emotional and mental health needs being met. Sadly, there is evidence to show that where children’s needs are not met in childhood, there is a hig-her likelihood of mental illness, including depression, in later lives.
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