By Shannon at the Southern Schoolhouse
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) isn’t an “extra” to squeeze in, it’s a way to support both student growth and academic success. When students understand their emotions, manage challenges, and collaborate with peers, they’re better prepared to learn and thrive. The good news? SEL can be woven seamlessly into your everyday lessons.
Why SEL Matters
SEL helps students develop self-awareness, self-management, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Classrooms with strong SEL practices see fewer behavior issues, increased engagement, and improved academic outcomes.
Blend SEL With Your Academic Goals
Look for natural connections:
- Reading & Language Arts: Analyze characters’ emotions and choices. Ask, “How would you feel if this happened to you?”
- Math: Encourage persistence through challenging problems. Discuss mistakes as learning opportunities.
- Science & Social Studies: Use group projects to practice teamwork, empathy for others.
Simple Daily SEL Practices
- Morning Check-Ins: Kick off the morning by asking students to share how they’re feeling or a goal they have for the day.
- Reflective Journals: Ask students to write about challenges or successes.
- Model SEL Skills: Demonstrate patience, active listening, and self-regulation for students to emulate.
Classroom Routines and SEL
- Establish Predictable routines and clear expectations
- Create a “calm corner” or quiet area for students to reset.
- Recognize positive behaviors with praise, encouragement, or small rewards.
Monitor and Celebrate SEL Growth
- Quick Reflections: Use short check-ins, “emoji moods,” or exit tickets that ask students about how they worked with others, solved problems, or managed challenges.
- Track with ClassDojo: Record SEL skills like teamwork, perseverance, or helping others directly in ClassDojo. Students can see their progress and get instant feedback.
- Set Goals and Celebrate: Have students set SEL goals in Class Dojo and work toward a big reward at the end of the nine weeks. Celebrate their growth both individually and as a class.
Tips for SEL Integration
- Start small, one intentional SEL moment each day can make a difference.
- Include SEL into lessons you already teach, rather than adding extra activities.
- Collaborate with PLTs to share ideas and strategies.
- Remember self-care, teachers model SEL best when they practice it too.
SEL and academics go hand in hand. By intentionally weaving SEL into your daily routines and lessons, you’re not just teaching content—you’re preparing students for success beyond the classroom.
