Introduction: The development of socio-emotional competencies in children aged 5-6 years represents a critical research area within developmental psychology and early childhood education. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the innovative DeCo-S.E. program (Development of Socio-Emotional Competencies), which integrates evidence-based socio-emotional education strategies, intervention techniques for maladaptive behaviors, and interpersonal problem-solving methodologies, addressing a significant gap in structured early intervention programs for preschool populations.
Methods: 146 children (mean age X±SD=5.87±2.87 years), 18 educators, and participants' parents, distributed into two groups: the experimental group (EG, n=74, coordinated by 10 educators), which completed the structured 16-week program, and the control group (CG, n=72, supervised by 8 educators), which engaged in standard curricular activities. Emotional competencies were assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Emotional Competence Screening questionnaire (SCE-E version for educators and SCE-P for parents), administered via the Cognitrom PEDa platform.
Results: Comparative analysis revealed statistically significant differences between EG and CG across all assessed dimensions: Understanding Emotions (t=5.568, p<0.01), Expressing Emotions (t=5.614, p<0.01), and Emotional Self-Regulation (t=6.900, p<0.01), with EG demonstrating superior improvements. Conclusions: The DeCo-S.E. program demonstrates empirical effectiveness in developing socio-emotional competencies in preschoolers. The significant improvements in self-confidence, communication, emotional awareness, problem-solving abilities, and social adaptability validate the theoretical framework linking structured socio-emotional learning to positive developmental outcomes. These findings advance educational psychology by providing a replicable, evidence-based model for integrating socio-emotional skill development into early childhood curricula, with implications for policy-making and pedagogical practice in preparing socially competent future generations.

Authors:
Badau Adela, Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania
Trifan Irina-Mihaela, ”G.E. Palade” University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology of Targu Mures, Romania

About the Presenter(s)
Prof. Dr. Adela Badau is a full professor at the Faculty of Physical Education and Mountain Sports, Transilvania University of Brașov, her research explores the multidimensional impact of physical activities.

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