Education and Artistic Expression

  In part 1 of the series I delved into the need for supportive relationships and opportunities to better develop and practice social, emotional and cognitive skills in different contexts. Parents and educators need to grant autonomy from the relationship and allow children to take responsibility.   This is only possible if we design the environment so that children learn this at school and in their own environment. Social and emotional skills are critical skills also perceived to be important to help children adapt and cope to a constantly changing world. The emphasis on promoting social and emotional learning (SEL) is necessary in order to improve students’ wellbeing and make sure that children’s life paths are not compromised.   Since last year, I have taken the route of researching and learning about the effects of SEL or the lack thereof on young people and adults. In a conversation about the importance of SEL with Andre Knol, a young professional who recently returned to St.