The value of social emotional and experiential learning
Kindergarten & Preschool Fashion Show
The first part of this school year has been very different due to the restrictions necessary during the corona pandemic, but at kindergarten and preschool the teachers have been working hard to continue to provide the children with valuable learning experiences. “Especially during these challenging and changeable time, Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Experiential Learning (EXL) are extremely important for our children”. Said Michèle Villard-Brand, Academic Coordinator Kindergarten and Preschool at ISF. “Although we need to carry out these projects in a slightly different way this year, we have still managed to have a lot of fun and learning with the children on many different topics”.
The children always look forward to these projects, such as experiments about dissolving, floating and sinking, planting projects, “we are different” lessons and many more. But one of the major highlights this year is the kindergarten and preschool Fashion Show, which took place on 10th December. In the weeks leading up to the show, the children put a lot of thought and effort into designing their own t-shirts, learning songs and creating performances to put on an exciting show for their parents. Bursting with pride, the children presented their t-shirts on the catwalk and performed their routines.
Involving parents is very important, so that children can share their experiences outside of the school environment. Of course, inviting parents in to the school is currently not possible. But that’s no problem at ISF, using the digital platforms already in place, the fashion show event was live-streamed to the parents and videos were shared so that our little superstars can also watch themselves with great feelings of pride at home.
The event was run in aid of our Kenya project, raising funds to support Chitsanze Primary School not far from Mombasa.
SEL (Social-Emotional Learning)
SEL lessons are part of our academic program as Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.
Experiential Learning (EXL)
Experiential learning is the practice of learning through doing. Our students are encouraged to having first-hand experiences with the materials such as experimenting with wood, water, fabrics, paper, etc. It also involves several projects such as cooking, planting as well as trying out different roles when choosing costumes and/or playing puppet theatres.
The SEL and EXL program at ISF is based on these topics:
A = Personal Awareness | Emotional Literacy
B = Self-Management | Emotional Regulation
C = Relationship skills to peers and adults
D = Social Awareness
E = Responsible Decision Making | Problem Solving skills
Find out more about our Kindergarten and Preschool.
