Holistic Learning In Early Childhood

Holistic learning gives as much importance to the emotional, social and physical growth of the child as the intellectual. Among the many benefits of holistic learning is that it enhances a child's subjective sense of well-being or simply put, makes them happier. The following article provides information on Nurturing Emotional Learning, Fostering Social Skills, Facilitiatiing Physical Movement and more. 

Nurtures Emotional Learning

An integral part of learning outcomes in holistic education is emotional well-being. Learning programmes and experiences are designed in ways that allow children ample opportunities to develop their emotional intelligence. They learn ways to identify feelings both in themselves and others. They are taught skills that help them in emotional regulation like slow, ‘belly breathing’ when feeling anxious or taking a ‘time out when they are extremely ‘mad’ at someone. Best of all, children learn that it is OK not to feel happy all the time and most importantly, in case they are upset, they can reach out to trusted adults for help. All these skills help children feel in more control of their inner selves and equip them with the resources to work towards their own well-being.

Fosters Social Skills

An essential aspect of holistic education is using more collaboration in learning tasks and activities. As children participate in group play, pair activities, buddy walk, and circle time, they develop social skills like sharing, negotiation, turn-taking, planning and problem-solving. Also through parallel play, associate play and cooperative play, children learn from each other. All these experiences strengthen children’s sense of belonging in peer and social groups, thus making for a strong sense of well-being.

Facilitates Physical Movement

The most obvious way that holistic education differs from traditional bookish education is by prioritising physical movement and exercise. "Feel-good" chemicals in the brain, known as endorphins, are released by the brain during physical activity and help to improve mood, energy levels and even sleep1. Also, exercise can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and encourage children to participate in team sports, lowering social anxiety too. Additionally, regular physical activity promotes healthy body weight, positive body image and self-esteem – all of which help children feel happy about themselves.

Helps Children Have Fun While Learning

Since holistic education adopts organic and emergent approaches, it uses children’s own interests, play and multi-sensory approaches to design learning practices. Also, such educational models take into account individual learning styles, and individual learning paces and facilitate supporting environments. All these measures, not only promote learning but help children to have fun while doing it.

Finally, by involving the family and wider community, holistic approaches go a long way in reducing inequities. This in turn has the potential to reduce the psychological impact of issues such as violence, abuse, or poverty on academic achievement2. When children feel safe in a secure and nurturing environment, they live, love and learn happily.

References:
Holistic Education, About Children's Health 
What is Holistic Education, American University Orlando