Why Is Social-Emotional Learning Important?

Promote mental health and well-being — Teaching social and emotional lessons in the classroom can help students develop the skills they need to manage their emotions, build positive relationships, and cope with stress and challenges. It's a small step toward better mental health for all.
Improve academic performance — There's strong research showing that students who have strong social and emotional skills are more likely to be engaged in learning and perform better academically.
Create a positive classroom culture — Teaching social and emotional lessons can help create the kind of classroom culture where students feel safe, respected, and supported — exactly what we all strive for!
Prepare students for life after school — Social and emotional skills are essential for success beyond the classroom, be it at home in the immediate future or in college or the workforce. Teaching these skills helps students be better equipped to handle the challenges they will face.
Address specific social and emotional needs — Teaching social and emotional lessons can help address students' specific needs, such as building self-esteem, managing emotions, and developing empathy for others. This can also help to create a more inclusive and equitable classroom where all students feel respected and valued. It's also good for your overall classroom management.

a kids kindness crown sits beside a printable version on a table

How to Teach Social and Emotional Lessons

There's little question that there's value in social and emotional learning, but how do you actually teach it? There's no simple answer here, as the exact methodology will differ based on grade level, individual student needs, and even your classroom dynamics! That said, here are some strategies from our teacher team to keep in mind as you consider how you're incorporating the components of SEL in your instruction:

Modeling — This is likely no surprise — we are our students' role models in the classroom for so much. Don't underestimate the value of your own active listening, displays of empathy and self-regulation, and other skills that are essential for your students' social and emotional development.
Classroom Culture — Establishing a safe and supportive learning environment where students feel respected, valued, and empowered goes a long way. Fostering a sense of community, promoting positive communication, and encouraging collaboration and teamwork are all helping kids build their SEL quotient!
Integration — Of course, you can (and should) have explicit instruction on SEL, but you can also incorporate SEL concepts into your core subject lessons. Discuss emotions related to a character in a book or working on group projects that require collaboration and communication. If you're teaching math, emphasize the importance of perseverance and problem-solving skills. Teaching social studies? Discuss empathy and the ability to understand different perspectives. It all comes together!

What Is Social-Emotional Learning? A Simple Definition

What Are the Social Emotional Learning Core Competencies?

Where Did Social and Emotional Learning Come From?

Why Is Social-Emotional Learning Important?

How to Teach Social and Emotional Lessons

Location

availability

file formats

publishers