NTE: Social-Emotional Learning (Curriculum) Through Children’s Literature Deb Norris January 12, 2026

This NEW Never Too Early course offers early childhood educators a practical, curriculum-focused exploration of how children’s literature can support social-emotional learning (SEL) in infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children. Building on foundational knowledge introduced in earlier NTE classes, this session centers on designing meaningful environments, routines, and activities that nurture emotional regulation, cooperation, and empathy - using high-quality picture books as the anchor.

Educators will examine how thoughtfully arranged learning spaces can promote calmness, independence, and emotional safety. We will look closely at environmental elements such as quiet spaces and accessible book displays, with a particular focus on selecting literature that encourages self-regulation, connection, and comfort. We will consider how intentional space design supports children who may need moments of retreat, reflection, or sensory balance.

The course then moves into curriculum development. Using newly provided picture books as well as titles from previous NTE trainings, educators will learn how to build holistic, book-centered units that honor children’s developmental needs. We will explore approaches for planning routines, provocations, and daily experiences rooted in SEL themes such as kindness, persistence, emotional expression, and problem-solving. Educators will also learn how to integrate social games for infants and toddlers and simple social games that strengthen peer relationships and build confidence. Participants will review picture books that support SEL curriculum planning, including stories that introduce feelings, conflict resolution, and community-building at an age-appropriate level. In addition, we will examine regulation-focused titles that help children learn calming strategies. Further recommendations for diverse social-emotional - themed books will be provided.

By the end of this course, educators will leave with actionable strategies and a deeper understanding of how to design environments and learning experiences that foster children’s social and emotional growth through the power of children’s literature.