Social-emotional competence is recognised as one of the most significant areas of learning for development and wellbeing in early childhood and beyond. SPCA’s Resources for Early Learning will support tamariki in learning to recognise, identify, manage and communicate their emotions and needs, and those of other human and non-human animals. It is through the development of these skills that tamariki will foster empathy and compassion, connecting it to family, peers, animals and community. Research shows that the early development of social-emotional skills is a specific factor in tamariki treatment of animals, therefore this learning will contribute to the prevention of animal cruelty.

For further support and information about the importance of social and emotional competence in Early Learning check out the fantastic NZ Ministry of Education resource: He Māpuna te Tamaiti | Supporting Social and Emotional Competence in Early Learning HERE