4 Tips to Support Social Emotional Learning in Schools
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Across the United States, the majority of schools—more than 8 out of 10—have embraced Social Emotional Learning (SEL) to some degree.1 SEL encompasses the teaching of skills and competencies that can help students better understand and manage emotions, maintain positive relationships and make responsible decisions.
Numerous studies have shown that students who develop social-emotional skills tend to be more academically successful, demonstrating better focus, improved behavior and a greater sense of well-being.2 These benefits make SEL a vital component of a comprehensive education system. In the classroom, SEL is practiced by asking students open-ended questions, encouraging flexible thinking for ethical decision-making, teaching self-calming techniques, providing constructive feedback and more.3
Despite its value, SEL is not consistently or effectively implemented in all schools for the most effective impact. Educators can often face struggles with logistical and systemic hurdles that can hinder delivery. A recent study revealed that many teachers feel overwhelmed by the lack of time allocated for SEL instruction, inadequate professional training and limited funding for appropriate tools.4 Without a deep understanding of SEL and meaningful support from school leadership, teachers may treat SEL as an add-on rather than an integral part of learning.
Here are 4 tips to overcome these challenges:
1. Follow the “SAFE” Framework
Effective SEL instruction follows the SAFE framework, which stands for Sequenced, Active, Focused and Explicit.2
Sequenced learning breaks down complex skills into manageable steps, building a foundation that supports deeper understanding over time. Utilizing an ordered set of activities like sequences and bite-sized parts can be more logical and help improve learning and problem-solving skills over time.
Active instruction emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to practice skills in real-world scenarios rather than passively absorb content. Interactive learning and hands-on activities help encourage sense-making for students.
Focused programs reserve dedicated time for SEL, ensuring it's not sidelined by academic pressures or standardized testing. Social and emotional instruction should be prioritized for students to have adequate time to practice these skills.
Explicit teaching makes learning goals clear and measurable, giving both students and educators tangible outcomes to strive for. When students know what to expect and where they should apply themselves, learning objectives are clearer
This framework helps SEL reach its full potential by nurturing emotionally resilient and socially competent students.
2. Leverage Technology to Enhance SEL Experiences
Emerging technologies are revolutionizing how educators approach Social Emotional Learning in the classroom. Virtual reality (VR), for instance, offers immersive experiences where students can safely navigate emotionally charged scenarios, such as resolving a conflict or practicing empathy, without real-world consequences. By simulating social interactions, students can experiment with different responses and reflect on outcomes in a way that fosters self-awareness and emotional regulation.
Similarly, interactive apps and AI-powered platforms can track emotional patterns over time, helping students build mindfulness and resilience. These digital tools often include guided meditations, emotion journals and customized goal setting that reinforce SEL principles in a user-friendly, engaging format.
3. Create Classroom Spaces That Nurture Emotional Growth
Beyond tech, the physical design of learning spaces plays a profound role in SEL. Flexible seating arrangements, like mobile desks and chairs on wheels, enable quick reconfiguration for collaborative activities, promoting social interaction and teamwork. Some chairs are even designed to meet sensory needs, allowing gentle movement to help students with attention challenges feel more grounded. Dedicated "calm corners" or sensory rooms provide students with spaces to decompress, reflect, or regulate emotions during high-stress moments. These areas often feature soothing materials, dim lighting and tactile objects that cater to diverse sensory preferences. When schools invest in adaptive design that acknowledges students' emotional and sensory needs, they foster environments where social-emotional development is not just taught—but lived.
4. Build SEL-Ready Schools for the Future
Social Emotional Learning plays a crucial role in helping students navigate challenges both inside and outside the classroom. It supports academic performance, emotional well-being and the development of lifelong interpersonal skills. By providing educators with practical tools, integrating technologies that enhance engagement and designing flexible learning environments that promote self-awareness and collaboration, schools can better support student growth. Strengthening SEL practices creates learning communities where students feel understood, supported and equipped to succeed—not just academically, but as thoughtful individuals in a complex world.
As educators understand and gain confidence in incorporating SEL practices in their curriculum, ODP Business Solutions stands ready to equip schools with the supplies they need.
Resources:
1 https://casel.org/more-than-8-out-of-10-u-s-schools-implement-sel-nearly-all-states-have-supportive-policies/
2 https://www.edsurge.com/news/2020-07-08-sel-skills-are-more-vital-than-ever-here-s-how-to-choose-the-right-tools
3 https://www.edutopia.org/article/sel-activating-strategies/
4 https://www.aasa.org/resources/resource/getting-sel-implementation-right
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