When a child develops personally he knows how to express his needs as well as his emotions using appropriate actions and words, and he adapts well to variations in environment and routine. In addition, he acquires a good attitude and is confident. When a child develops socially he respects others and their property; learns to work cooperatively with his schoolmates; is caring; follows rules and directions; and treats other respectfully.
Reading books to kindergarten students about emotions and how to deal with them and express them appropriately is one activity the teacher and class can engage in. Reading books about following rules and routines is another way that personal and social development is taught.
Playing games, such as Chutes and Ladders and Candyland, are great for teaching children how to take turns.
Engage kindergarten students in a game of charades. Tell them that they are to make gestures as well as facial expressions that show certain emotions. This teaches the children how to identify the emotions that others are experiencing and how to appropriately react. When a child understands emotions and how they are manifested, it teaches him to recognize social cues as well as improves his interaction with others.
Teachers can use visual aids in helping a child develop personality. Hang a facial expression chart on the classroom wall. This gives the children a reference for facial references such as happiness, sadness and surprise or fear.
Enrolling a child in an after-school program helps develop personal and social skills, according to Casel.org, which reports that those students participating in these problems show greater growth in the areas of improved behavior, school performance and attitudes and feelings including self esteem and confidence. Additionally, after-school program participation reduced the incidence of non-compliance, aggression and conduct issues.