The term “socialization” is a common topic in early childhood education, but for many parents in Beaverton and Oregon City, it can trigger the “Socialization Scaries”. You might worry that a center environment is too chaotic or that your child won't receive the individual attention they need to develop healthy social habits.

The reality is that high-quality programs like Harwell are specifically designed to build Emotional Intelligence (EQ) through a structured, research-backed framework.

Myth 1: Daycare leads to behavioral issues.

Reality The quality of care is the most significant factor in behavioral outcomes. Harwell teachers and directors take continuing education courses in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). Our staff receives ongoing in-classroom coaching to ensure they are facilitating positive peer interactions rather than just supervising them.

Myth 2: Children don’t learn social skills until they’re older.

Reality Social foundations begin as early as our Infant (3–8 months) and Older Infant (8–14 months) programs through “serve and return” exchanges with caregivers. These early interactions build the neural pathways for empathy and communication that children will use throughout their lives.

How Harwell Builds Emotional Intelligence

At Harwell, our teachers act as “social-emotional coaches”. Children practice the fundamental skills that build a strong Emotional IQ:

• Learning to share and take turns These are practiced daily during play-based activities influenced by the philosophies of Friedrich Froebel and Jean Piaget.

• Developing empathy Interacting with a diverse group of peers helps children recognize and respond to the emotions of others.

• Navigating conflict Under professional guidance, children learn healthy ways to resolve disagreements and express their needs using age-appropriate language.

We track this growth through regular milestone check-ins and three annual assessments, providing parents with total transparency into their child’s social development via the ProCare parent app.