Why Emotional Support Matters as Much as Academic Teaching in Primary Education: Ms. Laxmi More

As a primary teacher, I meet young children at a very important stage of their lives. For many of them, school is their first experience away from home. They walk into the classroom carrying curiosity, excitement, fear, and sometimes tears. At this stage, teaching is not limited to alphabets, numbers, or textbook lessons. It also involves understanding emotions and responding with care.
In primary classrooms, emotional security forms the foundation of learning. A child who feels safe and accepted is more willing to speak, ask questions, and participate in activities. On the other hand, a child who feels scared, ignored, or constantly corrected becomes silent and withdrawn. From my classroom experience, I have learned that learning begins only when a child feels emotionally supported.
Many learning challenges at the primary level are misunderstood as lack of ability. In reality, they often arise from fear of making mistakes or low self-confidence. When children are scolded or compared with others, they begin to associate learning with anxiety. However, when teachers appreciate effort, correct mistakes gently, and encourage improvement, children develop confidence and interest in learning.
Primary teachers also work under several limitations such as large class sizes, time-bound schedules, and curriculum pressure. Despite these challenges, emotional support does not require extra resources. Simple classroom practices—calling children by their names, listening patiently, acknowledging small progress, and maintaining a warm tone—make a significant difference. These small acts help children feel noticed and valued.
Emotional support also plays a vital role in shaping behaviour. Children who feel understood are more cooperative and disciplined. Instead of fear-based discipline, empathetic guidance helps children understand right behaviour and develop self-control. This approach strengthens the teacher–student bond and creates a positive learning environment.
Education in the primary years should aim to build confidence, curiosity, and emotional strength. Academic skills can be developed gradually, but emotional security must be nurtured from the beginning. When teachers balance academic teaching with emotional support, they do more than teach lessons—they shape young minds and hearts.

Why is emotional support crucial in primary classrooms?
Emotional support is crucial in primary classrooms because young children are emotionally sensitive and still developing self-confidence. When children feel safe, accepted, and encouraged, they become more open to learning, participation, and social interaction. Emotional security helps reduce fear and builds a positive attitude towards school.

How can primary teachers balance emotional support with academic teaching?
Primary teachers can balance both by integrating emotional support into daily teaching. Using kind language, appreciating effort, correcting mistakes gently, and encouraging participation help children feel confident while learning. Emotional support does not reduce academic focus; it strengthens children’s ability to learn effectively.
Ms. Laxmi More
Primary teacher/educator
Priyadarshani School, Moshi