Social and Emotional Issues

Understandably, reading, writing and arithmetic are not the only important things a child learns as they grow up. Children are also developing their sense of themselves and others through social and emotional learning.

Social Learning: The social sphere refers to the world outside the individual child, ie. other people, and how they interrelate. Social skills are specific reactions, responses and strategies that a student employs in social situations.

Emotional Learning: The emotional sphere is typically thought of as the realm of one’s ‘feelings’, but it goes deeper than that in the context of child development. Emotional learning is about: knowing one’s own emotions, being able to self-regulate those emotions, acting within the bounds of what is considered appropriate ( mainstream ideas of conformity and politeness), identifying and respecting others’ emotions and using social skills to respond appropriately.

Many students with learning disabilities or learning differences possess excellent social skills. Other special needs kids experience challenges in this area for a variety of reasons that could stem from: ADHD, intellectual disability, communication disorders, developmental coordination disorder, sensory processing issues, autism, down syndrome, and specific learning disabilities, etc. Dual diagnoses are not uncommon and they also include giftedness, literacy-related learning disabilities, and/or mental health challenges.  Associated medical or genetic conditions; as well as, environmental factors such as premature birth or prenatal alcohol or drug exposure can also contribute to delays in social-emotional development.

Unfortunately, neuro-typical kids can be cruel. Being different can set up special needs kids as targets for bullying, anxiety, depression, perfectionism and anger. For more information on social and emotional issues, please click here.

How can astrology help you and your special needs child navigate healthy social and emotional learning?

Getting your child’s birth chart done can provide insight into their areas of strength and help you strategize the most successful avenues of approach to improve their social and emotional functioning. An astrology reading can shed light on your child’s emotional inclinations, social stressors, temperament, social barriers, dealing with unkindness, helpful outlets, and strategies for social success.