Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Montessori Practices for Kids Ages 1 to 5

Between the ages of 1 and 5, children embark on a whirlwind of emotional and social development. They learn to understand their own emotions, navigate relationships with others, and make choices that shape their interactions with the world.


Social-emotional learning (SEL) provides a roadmap for this journey, equipping children with essential skills like self-awareness, empathy, and problem-solving. And guess what? Montessori education aligns beautifully with SEL principles, offering a natural and supportive environment for little ones to blossom into kind, confident, and emotionally intelligent individuals.

Brother and sister sitting on the floor and holding word cards.

What is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)?

Social-emotional learning (SEL) is like a toolkit for navigating the ups and downs of life. It equips children with the skills they need to understand and manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions.


For little ones between the ages of 1 and 5, SEL focuses on these key areas:

  • Self-awareness: Recognizing and understanding their own emotions. ("I feel happy when I play with my friends." "I feel sad when I fall down.")

  • Self-regulation: Managing their emotions and behaviors in healthy ways. ("I can take a deep breath when I feel angry." "I can ask for help when I need it.")

  • Social awareness: Understanding the perspectives and emotions of others. ("My friend is crying, so she must be sad." "Sharing my toys makes my friend happy.")

  • Relationship skills: Building and maintaining healthy relationships with others. ("I can take turns with my friend." "I can use kind words when I talk to others.")

  • Responsible decision-making: Making thoughtful choices about their actions and interactions. ("I can ask for permission before taking a toy." "I can help clean up when I'm finished playing.")

The best part is that Montessori education naturally supports SEL. It provides a framework for developing these skills through hands-on activities, social interaction, and a focus on emotional intelligence.

Boy and a girl playing with wooden Montessori toys in a classroom.

How Montessori Practices Support Social-Emotional Learning

Montessori education isn't just about academics; it's a holistic approach that nurtures a child's social-emotional development alongside their cognitive growth. Here's how Montessori practices can help your little one blossom into a kind, empathetic, and emotionally intelligent individual:

Encouraging Emotional Development Through Grace and Courtesy Lessons

In Montessori classrooms, "grace and courtesy" lessons are woven into the daily routine. These lessons teach children how to interact with others respectfully, practice good manners, and navigate social situations with confidence.


Here are a few examples of grace and courtesy lessons:

  • Saying "please" and "thank you"
  • Waiting their turn
  • Asking for help politely
  • Handling toys and materials with care
  • Greeting others with a smile
  • Apologizing when they've made a mistake
Children painting easter eggs with natural colors.

Fostering Empathy and Social Skills in Mixed-Age Group Settings

Montessori classrooms often include children of mixed ages, creating a unique environment for social and emotional growth.

  • Learning from others: Younger children learn from the older ones, observing their behavior and imitating their social skills. Older children develop a sense of responsibility and empathy as they help and guide the younger ones.

  • Patience and cooperation: Playing with children of different ages teaches patience, cooperation, and the ability to adapt to different needs and perspectives.

You can create opportunities for mixed-age interactions at home by arranging playdates with children of different ages or encouraging siblings to play and learn together by getting them some Montessori gifts for siblings.

Promoting Self-Regulation Through Choice and Independence

Montessori education empowers children to make choices and work independently, fostering self-discipline, confidence, and emotional regulation. And you don’t need a fancy setting for this, you can easily create a setting for Montessori at home:

  • Organize toys on low shelves: This allows children to choose their activities and take responsibility for their belongings.

  • Offer choices within limits: Give your child choices throughout the day, such as what to wear, what to eat for a snack, or which activity to do first. This helps them feel empowered while still providing structure and boundaries.

  • Encourage problem-solving: When your child encounters a challenge, guide them to find their own solutions rather than immediately intervening.
Little boy opening a toy box in his room.

Building Emotional Resilience Through Practical Life Activities

Emotional intelligence and Montessori toys go hand in hand, and practical life activities are an essential part of Montessori education. These activities not only teach children valuable skills but also help them develop emotional resilience.

  • Patience and persistence: Completing tasks like buttoning a shirt or pouring a glass of water without spilling requires patience and persistence.

  • Responsibility and self-control: Caring for plants or helping with household chores teaches children responsibility and self-control.

  • Problem-solving: Encountering challenges during practical life activities encourages children to find solutions and overcome obstacles.

SEL Activities Inspired by Montessori for Kids Ages 1-5

Montessori education offers a wealth of activities that naturally promote social-emotional learning. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Cooperative Play Ideas

Cooperative play encourages children to work together, share ideas, and build relationships. Here are some simple activities for little ones:

  • Building a tower together: Provide a set of blocks and encourage your child to work with a friend or sibling to build the tallest tower they can.

  • Playing a matching game: Memory matching games or simple card games encourage turn-taking, cooperation, and celebrating each other's successes.

  • Creating a collaborative artwork: Spread out a large sheet of paper and provide paints, crayons, or markers. Encourage children to create a shared artwork, taking turns and sharing ideas.
Children playing with play-dough dinosaurs.

Conflict Resolution Practices

Conflicts are inevitable in any social setting, but they can also be valuable learning opportunities. Montessori encourages children to resolve conflicts respectfully and peacefully.


Here's a step-by-step guide for teaching toddlers conflict resolution skills:

1. Acknowledge feelings: Help your child identify and name their emotions. ("You seem angry that your friend took your toy.")

2. Encourage communication: Help them express their needs and feelings using words or gestures. ("Tell your friend, 'I was playing with that.'" or "Show your friend that you're not finished.")

3. Facilitate problem-solving: Guide them to find a solution together. ("Can you ask your friend to share?" or "Maybe you can play with a different toy for now.")

4. Model respectful behavior: Show your child how to handle conflicts calmly and respectfully.

Developing Empathy Through Storytelling and Role-Playing

Stories are powerful tools for teaching empathy and understanding different perspectives.

  • Read books about emotions: Choose books that explore a variety of emotions and social situations. Discuss the characters' feelings and motivations with your child.

  • Encourage role-playing: Provide dolls, stuffed animals, or puppets and encourage your child to act out different scenarios. This helps them understand different perspectives and practice social skills.

For more ideas on incorporating storytelling and pretend play into your child's routine, check out these articles:

Two girls fingerpainting.

Tips for Parents to Support SEL at Home

You don't need a Montessori classroom to nurture your child's social-emotional development! Here are some practical tips for supporting SEL at home:

Model Emotional Regulation and Positive Behavior

Children are like sponges, absorbing the behaviors and attitudes they see around them. As a parent, you are their most important role model.

  • Stay Calm During Stressful Moments: When things get hectic or challenging, take a deep breath and show your child how to manage your emotions calmly.

  • Name Your Emotions: Help your child understand different emotions by labeling your own feelings. For example, you might say, "I'm feeling frustrated right now, so I'm going to take a break and come back to this later."

  • Use Positive Language: Encourage and praise your child when they demonstrate positive behaviors like sharing, helping, or expressing their feelings appropriately.

Use Everyday Moments for SEL

Every day is filled with opportunities to teach and reinforce social-emotional skills.

  • During daily routines: Use mealtimes, bath time, or bedtime routines to connect with your child and talk about their feelings. Ask questions like, "What was your favorite part of the day?" or "How are you feeling right now?"

  • In social situations: Encourage your child to use their words to express their needs and feelings when interacting with others. Praise them for sharing, taking turns, and using kind words.

  • After conflicts: Help your child understand the consequences of their actions and encourage them to apologize or find ways to make amends after a disagreement.
Sister putting a paper-made crown on his brothers head.

Create a Calm and Predictable Environment

A calm and predictable home environment can help your child feel safe, secure, and better able to regulate their emotions.

  • Establish routines: Consistent routines provide a sense of structure and predictability, which can reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm.

  • Declutter and organize: A clutter-free environment can help reduce overstimulation and create a more peaceful atmosphere.

  • Provide a cozy space: Create a cozy and comfortable space where your child can relax, unwind, and recharge when they feel overwhelmed.

Conclusion: Montessori Practices as a Foundation for SEL

Montessori education and social-emotional learning go hand-in-hand. The principles of Montessori, with its focus on independence, self-directed learning, and respect for the child, create a natural foundation for developing emotional intelligence, empathy, and social skills.


By incorporating Montessori practices into your home or classroom, you're providing your kiddo with the tools they need to navigate the world with confidence, kindness, and emotional resilience. Even small, consistent practices, like offering choices, encouraging problem-solving, and modeling positive behaviors, can greatly impact your child's emotional development.


Embrace the Montessori approach and nurture your child's social-emotional growth, setting them on a path toward a lifetime of healthy relationships and emotional well-being.

  • Free Delivery

    Over $80

  • Easy Returns

    No questions asked

  • Unbeatable Warranty

    1-year ++ warranty
  • Secure Checkout
    World’s most secure payment method