Social and emotional learning (SEL) is an educational method that aims to foster social and emotional skills within school curricula. SEL is the process through which all young people and adults acquire and 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, and make responsible decisions. SEL is a strengths-based, developmental process that begins at birth and evolves across the lifespan. Here are some key points to know about social and emotional learning:
- SEL is the process of developing the self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills that are vital for school, work, and life success.
- SEL helps young people – and adults – learn and practice skills that set them up for academic success, fulfilling careers, healthy relationships, and responsible civic engagement.
- The Five Social Emotional Learning Competencies are self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
- SEL is a methodology that helps students of all ages to better comprehend their emotions, to feel those emotions fully, and demonstrate empathy for others.
- SEL is a foundation for many of our most pressing priorities.
- SEL is a strengths-based, developmental process that begins at birth and evolves across the lifespan.
