Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is the ongoing process in which children and adults learn and correctly apply the knowledge, attitude, and skills they need to manage their own emotions. They also learn how to be able to show empathy and understand people other than themselves. SEL’s goal is to help children and adults to make responsible decisions overall.
According to a recent article on casel.org, “Social and emotional
skills are critical to being a good student, citizen, and worker. Many risky behaviors (e.g., drug use, violence, bullying, and dropping out) can be prevented or reduced when multi-year, integrated efforts are used to develop students’ social and emotional skills.”
It is believed by many people that understanding that the best way to learn to control and make responsible decisions is by having supportive relationships that make learning engaging and meaningful and that social and emotional skills are crucial to the foundation and formation of a person as they grow older.
According to Casel.org, at least 1 child in 10 suffers from a mental illness that severely disrupts daily functioning at home, in school, or in the community. Another study from Casel.org suggests that 70-80% of children in need don’t receive appropriate mental health services.
“What skills do socially and emotionally competent children and youth have?” an anonymous individual asked on Casel.org. They responded, “They are self-aware. They are able to recognize their emotions, describe their interests and values, and accurately assess their strengths. They have a well- grounded sense of self-confidence and hope for the future.”
