Why Social-Emotional Learning Is So Important for Kids Right Now
Schools have always taken on responsibilities that go beyond teaching history, English, or math. They are an important part of the communities they serve and an integral part of the lives of the students they teach. That‘s part of why schools have historically taught kids everyday life skills alongside important academic skills.
One set of life skills that are especially important right now involves something called social and emotional learning.
While it isn‘t a new idea, social and emotional learning is something that will be more useful than ever as kids return to classrooms after COVD-19 and during this stage of the global pandemic.
Social and emotional learning (SEL)
is an educational concept that helps kids gain skills in important
areas beyond math, reading, and other core school subjects. SEL helps
kids identify their feelings, understand and communicate with others,
build strong relationships, and make good, empathetic decisions. healthline.com
SEL focuses on a set of life skills kids need to understand themselves and communicate with others. For instance, SEL teaches kids ways to improve their:
- empathy
- emotion regulation
- problem-solving skills
- decision-making skills
- communication skills
- relationships with friends and family
- self-knowledge
- self-control
Through SEL, kids can gain a better understanding of themselves and of the people around them. They can gain the skills and knowledge that will help them understand their emotions, develop their identities, and set goals.
In an important 2011 study, researchers conducted one of the largest and most comprehensive reviews of SEL. They reviewed 213 studies that included over 270,000 students and found, among other things, that participating in SEL programs improves students‘ performances in their classes. It also has a lasting impact on students and on school communities.
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