A 2015 study published in the American Journal of Public Health tracked kindergarteners' social-emotional skills over 20 years. The results? Children who demonstrated empathy, cooperation, and emotion regulation were significantly more likely to finish college, maintain full-time employment, and avoid substance misuse as adults.
According to CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning), children who participate in evidence-based social-emotional learning (SEL) programs show an average of 11 percentile-point gains in academic performance.
The foundational years from birth to age five are when brain architecture is being built. During this time, children are particularly sensitive to relationships, routines, and environments that promote or hinder social-emotional growth.
One landmark study—the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study—tracked over 1,000 people from birth to age 45. It found that early self-control skills predicted physical health, income level, and criminal outcomes better than IQ or family background.
The National Scientific Council on the Developing Child further explains that frequent, responsive interactions—what they call “serve and return” relationships—are critical to wiring the brain’s executive functioning and emotion regulation systems.
Why It Matters:
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Children with strong social-emotional skills are better able to cope with adversity and solve interpersonal problems.
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These skills also support academic learning by improving focus, memory, and the ability to follow instructions.
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SEL reduces the likelihood of behavioral challenges, aggression, and disengagement.
Our blog on Social-Emotional Learning in Early Years builds on this research, offering practical strategies for parents and educators alike.
At The Gingerbread Pan, We Believe In:
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Whole-child wellness through emotional safety and imaginative play
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Tools that empower both the child and the caregiver
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Long-term impact through consistent, accessible support systems
Whether it’s through our Emotion Flashcards, comforting plushies, or affirmation rituals, we’re here to help you build a secure emotional foundation for your child.
Looking for stories from real parents? Check out this article where families share how Gingerbread Cuddles changed their daily routines for the better.
Want to help your child succeed beyond the classroom? Start with tools that speak to their heart. Our Cuddle Croo was designed with this mission in mind—to support whole-child development through warmth, comfort, and imaginative connection.
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