What is SEL?
According to the Collaborative for Social and Emotional learning, SEL is the “process through which children and adults understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.”
SEL isn’t just a “good idea” –it is the main avenue for effective and deep learning. SEL skills allow children and adults to make connections and apply learning to meaningful contexts, as well as build and maintain meaningful relationships.
Without application, knowledge is virtually meaningless, and SEL skills are the gateway to knowledge application. SEL may be considered a “soft skill,” but it is hard to develop!
A systematic and cross-cultural (or layered) approach to teaching SEL skills is the most effective and preventative—which means SEL skills should be taught in classrooms and schools, as well as in homes and communities.
- SEL skills help children and adults develop resilience and growth mindset.
- SEL skills improve behavior.
- SEL skills improve academic outcomes.
- SEL skills improve anxiety and depression.
- SEL skills are an indispensable part of an intentional and meaningful life!
Additional Resources:
CASEL: https://casel.org/what-is-sel/
