Students of Juthoor Early Education Center.
Doha, Qatar: Qatar Foundation places social and emotional learning at the heart of its education ecosystem, recognising these skills as essential foundations for lifelong learning and positive social change. Across all learning environments, it prioritises connection, wellbeing, and emotional development – the importance of which has been further emphasised this year, as disruptions to daily routines have highlighted the need to support children’s emotional wellbeing and continuity in learning.
This commitment is reflected across Qatar Foundation’s (QF) ecosystem, including Juthoor Early Education Center, which serves children from 6 months to 3 years old. At Juthoor, children are viewed as capable and curious – brimming with wonder and full of potential.
Guided by a child-centred educational philosophy, Juthoor – part of QF’s Pre-University Education – encourages children to explore the world through their own interests and to express themselves through everything from art and movement to dialogue, play, and problem-solving. These are among the “100 languages” outlined by the Reggio Emilia Approach, which emphasises how children shape their identities, personalities, and understanding of the world from an early age.
“At Juthoor, learning is not rushed or imposed; we listen to children, follow their interests, and design experiences that support their natural development socially, emotionally, cognitively, and creatively,” said Samah Fouad Abousalim, an educator at Juthoor. “We see children as competent learners who are curious and full of potential.”
“Social and emotional learning is part of everything we do,” Abousalim explained. “It’s present in how we listen to children, validate their feelings, support peer relationships, and help them develop empathy and self-regulation through meaningful experiences.”
Juthoor fosters strong partnerships with families, ensuring consistency and emotional support at home and within the wider community. This helps reinforce the experiences gained at school beyond the centre and into daily life.
“By placing relationships at the heart of our work and collaborating closely with families, we support children’s wellbeing wherever they are,” Abousalim said. “Families play a crucial role in reinforcing learning and emotional growth, helping children apply skills such as empathy, self-awareness, and resilience in everyday life.
According to Abousalim, children at Juthoor become increasingly comfortable expressing ideas, engaging with peers, and taking initiative. “They develop a strong sense of belonging because they feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are.”
Reflecting on the long-term outcomes of this educational philosophy, Abousalim emphasises the lasting importance of social and emotional learning.
