As a learning method, social and emotional learning (SEL) has solidified its importance in nurturing children to become thriving students.
But SEL programs are not just a nice-to-have. They need to be implemented fully, and educators must understand their role and implement it to their full strength for it to be successful. Here are five
best practices for educators when navigating an SEL program at their schools.
Acknowledge the Significance of Educator SEL
Often, educators and administrators are so occupied with achieving measurable metrics and tracking quantifiable KPIs that SEL programs seem redundant. Educators’ embodying SEL is just as essential to its success as implementing it for students. A research paper by Edward Fergus and Anne Gregory concluded that the educator’s social and emotional capabilities are just as critical to the success of SEL programs. Schools must outline ways to support teachers in order for SEl to be effective.
Make SEL Meaningful for Educators
Schools and districts don't have much free time, but implementing teacher-first SEL is not a privilege but a necessity, particularly after a
challenging couple of years. Set time during meetings to discuss SEL, reflect, and connect with fellow teachers to imbibe SEL.
Promote Introspection
Education leaders should promote the embedding of SEL into teaching practices. Encourage asking questions such as, what teachers have learned in the past couple of years, how they have connected with students, and how to reimagine lesson plans in the light of SEL?
To Conclude
SEL should be embedded in the DNA of learning and education. The more connected educators are with the principles of SEL, the better they are able to impart it to students and stay prepared for
disruption in learning methods.