Personal, social and emotional development (PSED) supports children to learn to get on with others and make friends, understand and talk about feelings, learn about 'right' and 'wrong', develop independence and ultimately feel good about themselves.

Children's early PSED has a huge impact on their later well-being, learning achievement and economic success too.

What should my child be able to do by the end of Reception?

• Show an understanding of their own feelings and those of others, and begin to regulate their behaviour accordingly. 
• Set and work towards simple goals, being able to wait for what they want and control their immediate impulses when appropriate.
• Give focused attention to what the teacher says, responding appropriately even when engaged in activity, and show an ability to follow instructions involving several ideas or actions.
• Be confident to try new activities and show independence, resilience and perseverance in the face of challenge.
• Explain the reasons for rules, know right from wrong and try to behave accordingly.
• Manage their own basic hygiene and personal needs, including dressing, going to the toilet and understanding the importance of healthy food choices.
• Work and play cooperatively and take turns with others.
• Form positive attachments to adults and friendships with peers.
• Show sensitivity to their own and to others' needs

Supporting children with additional needs

It's normal for a child to show how they're feeling through their behaviour. But if a child starts to excessively repeat the usual ways they show how they feel, they could be struggling with their emotional health. These signs may include an excessively short attention span, and aggressive or withdrawn behaviour.

If you have any concerns about a child's PSED, always discuss this with the child's teacher and agree how you will work together.  There could be many reasons why a child temporarily struggles emotionally, including moving house, parents changing partners, more children or babies in the home or the death of a relative or pet.

Useful Resources