Social-Emotional Learning
Helping children understand emotions, build relationships, and make good decisions
What is Social-Emotional Learning?
Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which children acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to:
- Understand and manage emotions
- Set and achieve positive goals
- Feel and show empathy for others
- Establish and maintain positive relationships
- Make responsible decisions
Skills such as patience, persistence, self-awareness, empathy, and growth mindset are just a few of the topics you'll find in many wonderful books at the library.
Key SEL Skills
Self-Awareness
Recognizing one's emotions, thoughts, and how they influence behavior
Self-Management
Regulating emotions and behaviors in different situations
Social Awareness
Understanding others' perspectives and showing empathy
Relationship Skills
Building healthy relationships and working well with others
Responsible Decisions
Making constructive choices about personal and social behavior
Growth Mindset
Believing abilities can be developed through effort and learning
Five Core SEL Competencies
Based on the CASEL framework, these are the essential areas of social-emotional development:
1
Self-Awareness
Identifying emotions, recognizing strengths, and having a growth mindset
2
Self-Management
Managing stress, controlling impulses, setting goals, and persevering
3
Social Awareness
Taking others' perspectives, showing empathy, and respecting diversity
4
Relationship Skills
Communicating clearly, working in teams, and resolving conflicts
5
Responsible Decision-Making
Making ethical choices, evaluating consequences, and solving problems
SEL Resources
Tips for Parents & Caregivers
Name the Feeling
Help children identify and label their emotions. "It looks like you're feeling frustrated. Is that right?"
Model Emotional Regulation
Show children how you handle big feelings. "I'm feeling stressed, so I'm going to take some deep breaths."
Read Books Together
Use stories to discuss characters' feelings and choices. "How do you think the bunny felt when that happened?"
Practice Problem-Solving
Guide children through conflicts instead of solving problems for them. "What could you try?"
Celebrate Effort
Praise the process, not just results. "I noticed how hard you worked on that puzzle!"
Create Calm-Down Spaces
Designate a cozy spot where children can go to regulate their emotions.