What Is Social and Emotional Learning?

Lacking social and emotional skills can cause lots of problems for kids both in the classroom and out. Getting along with other kids, being able to calm down when they’re upset, tolerating uncomfortable feelings — these are all skills children may need help to develop. That’s why many schools have social and emotional learning (SEL) programs that help kids learn to recognize, understand, and manage their emotions.

This week on childmind.org, we dive into what SEL is and why it’s helpful in schools. We cover what SEL looks like in a classroom and how parents can support social-emotional development at home. We also have guidance on how to help kids who struggle to regulate their emotions and have trouble making friends.