Soft skills are personal attributes and abilities that are not directly related to technical or academic skills, but are still important for success in life. Studies have shown that teaching children soft skills such as communication, leadership, time management, and others, can have a significant impact on their future success. For example, a study by the National Center for Education Research found that students who participated in social and emotional learning programs showed an 11-percentile-point gain in academic achievement compared to their peers. Additionally, a report by the World Economic Forum found that among the top skills employers look for in new hires, soft skills such as communication and teamwork rank higher than technical skills. Furthermore, research has shown that individuals who have strong soft skills are more likely to have higher levels of job satisfaction and career advancement opportunities. These findings highlight the importance of teaching soft skills to children, as they can have a lasting impact on their personal and professional success.
Examples of soft skills include:
- Communication: the ability to effectively convey thoughts, ideas, and information through speaking and writing.
- Teamwork: the ability to work effectively with others to achieve a common goal.
- Leadership: the ability to inspire, motivate, and guide others.
- Problem-solving: the ability to analyze and find solutions to problems.
- Time management: the ability to prioritize and manage time effectively.
- Adaptability: the ability to adjust to new situations and environments.
- Self-management: the ability to manage one’s emotions, behavior, and actions.
- Emotional intelligence: the ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions and the emotions of others.
Soft skills are important to teach kids because they help them develop the abilities and attributes needed for success in school, in their future careers, and in life in general. They can help children develop self-awareness and self-regulation, improve their relationships, and increase their ability to navigate life’s challenges. Additionally, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving can be transferable skills that will be valuable for a wide range of careers.
