Use Humanities As Your Foundation

To effectively teach SEL, educators should have the training and certifications beyond just technical teaching. It can be difficult when imparting sensitive character-building lessons, so the relevant training helps to prepare teachers for as many classroom situations and interactions as possible. Maryville University explains how a background in liberal studies should be considered, as educators with this training are equipped with an understanding of how to handle different personalities and learning styles in the classroom. They are well-versed in humanities and social sciences, so they also understand many of the basics in terms of SEL competencies. A strong foundational training will serve as a way to gain a better grasp of how to effectively teach SEL in the classroom.

Create An SEL-Based Framework

An SEL framework is a guide that can help facilitate the correct implementation of the curriculum plan. Our past article on ‘Multi-Subject SEL’ explains that a curriculum should allow students to collaborate and foster the five competencies. The framework you create will dictate how SEL will be integrated into your lessons, and it can also be adapted depending on the needs of your students — even at an individual level. It is important to create a framework so that your curriculum will be properly structured and will complement the lessons in any subject. This will ensure a more organized learning experience and will enable you to touch on different aspects of SEL so as to build true social and emotional development in your students.

Create Relevant Activities

Once you have a framework, you can then figure out what activities you can use to integrate social and emotional learning into your lessons. This can range from taking a few minutes each day to encourage positive self-talk or even having show-and-tell sessions where students can bring one interesting object that has special meaning to them. Storytelling can be another great way to integrate SEL into your curriculum. Buena Vista University highlights how literature is the perfect tool to foster social and emotional learning and development, as students learn more about empathizing and understanding the emotions of different characters. Having SEL-related activities in your curriculum will enhance the learning experience and make the lessons more digestible and engaging.

Foster A Safe Learning Environment

A comprehensive SEL curriculum encourages students to be more vulnerable and open, so it is important for them to have a safe environment. As an educator, we suggest that you create an atmosphere where young people under your care feel comfortable exploring their emotions and relationships with others, so they will not feel any shame or stigma in doing so. Lead by example and be vulnerable around them. It is important to address any excessive teasing or bullying as this will hinder their development. Try to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among your students so you can fully implement a meaningful SEL curriculum.

Integrating SEL into your lessons and teachings can be effectively done if you prepare accordingly. Getting the right training, building a solid framework, and adapting to the needs of your students will promote true social and emotional development that will help them for years to come.