A student slumps over their desk, frustrated by a math problem. Another is on the verge of tears after a disagreement at recess. In K–5, emotional growth is happening constantly—often right alongside academic learning. These moments are where children begin to understand themselves, their feelings, and how to interact with others.
Learning to Name and Navigate Emotions
At Hanover Academy, we recognize that emotions are part of the learning journey, not separate from it. Young children are still developing the skills to recognize and describe how they feel. We help them build this emotional vocabulary through daily check-ins, class conversations, and thoughtful reflection.
Teachers model how to pause and breathe when frustrations rise. They guide students in identifying when they feel angry, anxious, or confused. When children can name their feelings, they are better able to manage them. Instead of reacting impulsively, they learn how to ask for help, take a break, or solve problems calmly.
Creating a Culture of Support and Empathy
Emotional development also happens through social interaction. Group work, classroom routines, and play offer constant opportunities for students to practice empathy, patience, and compromise. At Hanover Academy, our teachers set expectations for how students treat one another. We teach that respect and kindness are non-negotiable, and we support students as they work through conflicts.
We also provide space for emotional expression. Students write in journals, participate in guided discussions, and share their experiences during classroom meetings. These moments allow children to understand that their feelings are valid—and that others may feel similarly. They begin to develop emotional resilience by learning that challenges are manageable and that asking for help is a sign of strength.
Integrating Emotional Learning Across the Day
Rather than treating emotional learning as a separate subject, we integrate it into every part of the school day. A lesson in patience during group work, a reflection after a playground disagreement, or a moment of mindfulness before starting a writing assignment—each of these is an opportunity to grow.
Teachers use stories to spark conversations about empathy and problem-solving. They help students reflect on what characters might be feeling and how different choices lead to different outcomes. These conversations help children connect literature and life, making emotional growth feel natural and relevant.
When students feel emotionally supported, they are more available for learning. Their focus improves, their relationships strengthen, and their confidence grows. At Hanover Academy, we view emotional intelligence as an essential part of success—inside and outside the classroom.
