Social & Emotional Curriculum

A Second Step lesson

Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

SEL programs provide systematic classroom instruction that enhances children's abilities to recognize and manage their emotions, appreciate the perspectives of others, establish pro-social goals and solve problems, and use a variety of interpersonal skills to handle the challenges of growing up. In addition to skills-building components, a number of SEL programs also feature elements designed to create supportive climates in the classroom and throughout the school--for example, by nurturing the relationships between students and teachers and others important to the child, and establishing practices that build trust and rapport among and between students and adults.

SEL is based on the knowledge that our emotions and relationships affect how and what we learn. It is grounded in research findings that social and emotional skills can be taught and that they promote positive development, reduce problem behaviors, and improve children’s academic performance, citizenship, and health-related behaviors (Greenberg et al., 2003). Academic outcomes promoted by SEL include greater motivation to learn and commitment to school, increased time on schoolwork and mastery of subject matter, improved attendance and graduation rates, improved grades and test scores, and better prospects for constructive employment and work satisfaction (Zins et al. 2004).

From: CASEL

Second Step Second Step is a pro social skills curriculum for pre-k through 8th grade

Steps to Respect A bullying prevention program for grades 3-6. Children learn and practice bullying prevention skills, including how to recognize, refuse, and report bullying, and how to make friends.

Yoga Calm Yoga Calm engages heart, mind and body through its unique blend of physical yoga, social skills games and counseling techniques. It helps kids develop emotional intelligence, communication skills, trust and empathy. It nurtures teamwork and leadership. It provides for a calmer and more productive school environment.

CASEL Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning. Newsletter, searchable database and program information.