The Happy Learning Den: SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING BELONGS IN OUR SCHOOLS

Hi again, friends!

I don’t know about you, but it feels like the focus within classrooms has been centered on assessments for at least 15 years. How students perform on state exams are supposed to tell the story of student achievement—or at least, most of the story.

However, more and more research has discovered that social and emotional learning (SEL) is essential for student success. But teachers already knew that!

Children have a difficult time achieving academic success when they do not know how to interact appropriately with others. Bullying, emotional outbursts, and fighting can make it hard for any child to focus on the academic skills taught in the classroom. Such issues can also take time away from the dedicated educator and administration, forcing them to spend more time on disciplining students. It is in these moments where social and emotional learning can make a difference.

Social-emotional learning can positively impact students, teachers, and school districts. Students learn the skills needed to self-regulate and constructively work toward solutions that benefit them in the classroom. We, as a nation, need to educate children holistically. Multiple benefits are often seen with SEL. It promotes a favorable school climate and students have increased academic success. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) nurtures a climate that is inviting, participatory and caring for all learners. With SEL, you help children develop the social skills that will serve them for their lifetime.

An added benefit is that you may have fewer disciplinary issues, which leads to students becoming more motivated in the classroom. Our students need more than simply academic knowledge to thrive. They need transferable soft skills that will allow them to understand others and work collaboratively to achieve desired outcomes. By providing tools for students to learn to manage their emotions and problem solve can allow them to better contribute to our schools and communities. By implicitly teaching SEL, there is an opportunity for educators, administrators, and school districts to make a positive impact on communities for years to come.

I have created a series of lessons and activities that I have used in my classroom the past few years. These have all had an incredible impact on student behavior and academic success. Frequently I hear from colleagues about how "student x's" behavior is much different in my room that in a previous class. I am not a better teacher. However, I use my SEL plans and activities in my classroom weekly. That is what has made all the difference.

If you are interested in seeing my SEL lesson plans and activities, you can click HERE and go directly to my TPT store.