This article discusses methods on how to assess a young child’s social competence. Social development is extremely vital for young children, using other’s research Diane E. McClellan and Lilian G. Katz stated that “[children who don’t] achieve minimal social competence by about the age of 6 years, they have a high probability of being at risk into adulthood in several ways”. These risks include problems to name some such as dropping out of school, mental health, and low success in life. Whereas children who are social competent at a young age strengthen their “long-term social & emotional adaptation, academic & cognitive development, and citizenship.
When assessing a child’s behavior look at the behavior that is typical of the child, “[usually] over a period of or three or four weeks". How they act toward one another and how they are treated by their peers “(cooperatively or aggressively, helpfully or demandingly, etc.)" is a good indicator whether or not adequate social growth has been met. Although, being socially competent does not necessarily mean being a "social butterfly". It’s the quality not the quantity of a child’s interactions that must be noted. If a child shows poorly social skills, strategies can be implemented that will help the child to achieve social competence.
Although social competence is extremely important in terms of child’s development, both authors note “It is important to keep in mind that children vary in social behavior for a variety of reasons… In addition, nuclear & extended family relationships and cultural contexts also affect social behavior.” Because there may be differences, instructors & parents need to find ways to bring bridge their differences and help them enjoy the company of on another.
Analyzing this source it’s clear that the authors have well research their topic extensively. Their purpose is to inform their readers and promote child’s wellbeing. Their primary audience is probably those who work in early childhood education although not limited to that. Looking at their creditability, I noticed they quote and cite many sources and within those sources I noticed the authors cite other material that they have themselves authored. It made wonder whether or not I could trust what they are saying. Looking upon more indications whether or not they are creditable I noticed this article that they wrote is associated with the U.S Department of Education. The authors themselves are probably experts on early childhood education.
Reflecting on this source I agree with much of what McClellan and Katz had said. Social competence is extremely vital to child’s wellbeing. I say having good social skills is good because you have a way of communicating to others on how you feel or what you want. It helps maintain your overall wellbeing. Expanding from this idea, I think the reason why being social competent has these benefits to wellbeing is because of the increased interdependency. If a child doesn't feel afraid of social situation, they will be more eager to learn and pay attention. If they can grasp the minimal social skills early enough, they’ll probably make quality friendships and form a support network for themselves. These are reasons on why they’re probably usually more successful in life.
After reading this article I’m left wondering with some questions. For example mental health, did poor skills in an early age help contribute to anxiety issues in teenagers and adults? In societies/cultures that are demanded people to be social able at an early age have a population that has a higher number of successful people? Happy people? A low concentration of people with anxiety? Although this article talks about an informal way of assessing a child’s social competence and talks about the benefits associated with good social skills, are they exaggerating the benefits?
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