Supporting Emotional Growth in Early Childhood

Supporting Emotional Growth in Early Childhood:

How The Redwoods Montessori Nurtures Mental Health

At The Redwoods Montessori Preschool and Kindergarten, we believe emotional wellness is the foundation for lifelong learning and well-being. In the early years, children are not just growing physically and intellectually—they’re also learning how to identify emotions, manage stress, build healthy relationships, and feel confident in themselves. These social-emotional skills shape how they respond to the world around them, and they’re just as essential as reading or math.

Let’s explore how we prioritize emotional growth at The Redwoods Montessori, how our classroom supports mental health, and how you can reinforce these skills at home.

Why Emotional Growth Matters in Early Childhood

Between the ages of 2 and 6, children are developing core abilities such as empathy, impulse control, emotional awareness, and the ability to self-regulate. These early years are a critical window for mental and emotional development.

When children feel safe, supported, and understood, they’re more likely to:

• Express their feelings in healthy ways

• Build positive relationships with peers and adults

• Develop resilience to handle life’s challenges

• Focus and learn with confidence

By nurturing these traits early on, we lay the foundation for strong mental health—now and in the future.

How The Redwoods Montessori Supports Emotional Growth

Our classrooms are intentionally designed to be calm, respectful, and responsive to each child’s needs. While academic learning happens every day, just as much attention is given to a child’s emotional development.

Here’s how we incorporate mental wellness into daily life:

🌱 Safe and Predictable Environments
Children thrive in spaces where they know what to expect. Our peaceful classrooms offer routine, consistency, and gentle transitions that help reduce anxiety and create a sense of security.

🗣️ Emotional Expression Through Language
We teach children to name their feelings—whether it’s frustration, excitement, sadness, or joy. This helps them understand their emotions rather than act out on them.

🤝 Conflict Resolution and Empathy
When disagreements happen, we guide children through problem-solving conversations. We ask open-ended questions like “How did that make you feel?” and “What could we try next time?”—building empathy and emotional awareness.

🌟 Individualized Support
Each child is unique. We observe closely and respond to signs of stress or emotional needs with patience and care, offering reassurance, quiet space, or gentle redirection when needed.

How Parents Can Nurture Emotional Wellness at Home

Emotional growth doesn’t stop at the classroom door—it starts and continues at home. As a parent or caregiver, you play a powerful role in modeling emotional health.

Here are a few simple ways to support your child’s mental and emotional well-being:

🏡 Establish a calm routine. Predictability helps children feel secure. Create gentle morning and evening rhythms, and give them time to process transitions.

💬 Talk about feelings. Use books, conversations, or playtime to explore emotions. Phrases like “I see you’re upset—do you want a hug or space?” validate their experience.

🤗 Teach self-soothing tools. Deep breathing, squeezing a stuffed animal, or drawing can help children calm down when emotions feel big.

📵 Limit overstimulation. Avoid overwhelming environments when possible. Too much screen time or noise can impact a child’s ability to regulate emotions.

❤️ Be emotionally available. When your child is upset, your calm presence is the most comforting tool. Listen without rushing to fix—sometimes being heard is enough.

At The Redwoods Montessori, we’re here to partner with you in raising emotionally resilient, confident, and kind children. Together, we can give your child the tools to understand their feelings, connect with others, and grow into their best self.

Want to Learn More?

We’d love to show you how our nurturing environment supports your child’s mental and emotional development.

📍Schedule a tour at TrimontSchools.com to visit our campuses in Redwood City or San Ramon.