Subject: Social Emotional Learning 💚

What Is Social Emotional Learning?

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process through which children develop the skills to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions.

In practice, SEL isn’t just an “add-on” it’s woven into how students engage with peers, how they manage challenges, and how they see themselves as learners. Research shows that SEL not only improves social skills and emotional well-being, but it also strengthens academic performance and classroom climate.

The Overarching Goal of SEL

At its core, SEL equips students to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. The ultimate goal is to help children become:

• Self-aware: Understanding their emotions, values, and strengths.
• Self-managed: Regulating emotions and behaviors in different settings.
• Socially aware: Showing empathy and understanding diverse perspectives.
• Relationship builders: Developing healthy, positive connections.
• Responsible decision-makers: Making constructive choices that benefit themselves and others.

By nurturing these competencies, teachers prepare students not only for academic success, but for lifelong well-being, strong relationships, and meaningful participation in their communities.

SEL Is Not Therapy

Although Social Emotional Learning addresses the emotional capacity of students and gives them skills to manage them, it is NOT therapy. While Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and therapy both support emotional well-being, they are not the same. SEL is an educational approach that teaches skills like self-awareness, self-management, empathy, and responsible decision-making, and it is designed for all students as part of their everyday learning. 

Therapy, on the other hand, is a clinical intervention provided by a licensed professional to address mental health concerns or emotional challenges that require individualized treatment. In other words, SEL equips students with universal life skills for success in school and relationships, while therapy provides specialized support for those who need deeper, personalized care.

SEL vs. Therapy

Dojo Tutor and SEL Instruction

Your classes are powerful opportunities for SEL growth. Here are some strategies to utilize during your sessions:

• Model Active Listening
  • When a student shares their thoughts, respond with empathy and paraphrase their words. This shows respect and builds trust.
• Use Check-Ins
  • Ask simple questions such as, “How are you feeling today?” or use feelings charts to help students identify emotions.
• Coach Self-Regulation
  • Guide students in practicing calming strategies (deep breathing, counting, using positive self-talk) when emotions run high.
• Celebrate Strengths
  • Recognize small successes and highlight a student’s unique strengths. This boosts self-awareness and confidence.
• Problem-Solve Together
  • Walk through challenges collaboratively, modeling how to weigh choices, consider consequences, and make responsible decisions.
• Support Culture and Diversity
  • Recognize and affirm each student’s unique background and identity. This strengthens rapport and ensures SEL lessons are meaningful for every learner.

These individualized moments help students feel seen and supported while building the skills that transfer into their everyday interactions.

Goal Setting For Your SEL Sessions 

Utilize the goals categories listed below when setting goals for your SEL sessions with students:

• Strengthen my confidence
• Develop my leadership abilities
• Practice having a growth mindset
• Deepen my understanding and empathy
• Improve how I manage my mood and attitude
• Use positive thinking strategies
• Learn to better understand and show respect

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a separate SEL curriculum?
A: No, there is no particular resource you are required to use. We will provide resources for your trial classes. 

Q:  What kinds of SEL activities are appropriate for different ages?

A: Here are some quick examples:

• PreK–1st: Feelings check-ins, storybooks about emotions, role-play, using visuals/emojis.
• 2nd–3rd: Short reflection questions, simple coping strategies, team-building games.
• 4th–5th: Journaling prompts, perspective-taking activities, problem-solving scenarios.
• 6th and up: Goal-setting, self-reflection forms, deeper exploration of empathy and choices.

Q: How do I know if a student needs more support than I can give?

A: Look for patterns like ongoing sadness, extreme anger, withdrawal, or behavior changes that affect daily life. If you notice these, Tutors should not take on the role of therapist. Please notify our team using the Child Safety Report, and we will follow up with next steps. 

Q: How should I handle a situation where I don’t feel comfortable supporting a specific student?

A: Our priority is making sure every child has the best learning experience possible. We understand that sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts, a match just isn’t the right fit. And that’s okay! Just request a student transfer by completing this form: 📝 Want to request a transfer? 

Q:  How do I adapt SEL for older students (grades 6 and up)?

A: Older students respond well to choice, respect, and real-world connections. Frame SEL in terms of leadership, stress management, teamwork, and preparing for the future. Let them set personal goals and reflect on progress.

More questions? Email our team at: tutoring-support@classdojo.com