The Zein pedagogic programme is based upon an integration of aspects of the Reggio Emilia approach, Montessori methods and a Themed Approach to learning.
We believe in the importance of intentional teaching of ‘socio-emotional competencies’ – a key success factor in bringing up happy, well-rounded young people. The quality of early years’ experiences can fundamentally impact all aspects of human development, physically, emotionally and intellectually – they set the stage for later health, well-being and learning. There is a demonstrated link between young children’s social-emotional competence and their cognitive development, language skills, mental health and school success.
Our programme aims to help children feel positive about themselves, their abilities and the people around them. Social-emotional competence in early childhood is made up of the following:
• Self-esteem – good feelings about oneself
• Self-confidence – being open to new challenges and willing to explore new environments
• Self-efficacy – believing that one is capable of performing an action
• Self-regulation/Self-control – following rules, controlling impulses, acting appropriately based on the context
• Personal agency – planning and carrying out purposeful actions
• Executive functioning – staying focused on a task and avoiding distractions
• Patience – learning to wait
• Persistence – willingness to try again when first attempts are not successful
• Conflict resolution – resolving disagreements in a peaceful way
• Communication skills – understanding and expressing a range of positive and negative emotions
• Empathy – understanding and responding to the emotions and rights of others
• Social skills – making friends and getting along with others
• Morality – learning a sense of right and wrong
Through these competencies we aim to support your child’s social and emotional development – equipping them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and attitudes which will help them succeed in their friendships, school and home lives and as members of the wider community.