The Importance of SEL
On March 11th, schools and communities across the country will celebrate SEL Day. Dedicated to honoring the importance of social and emotional learning, this year’s theme is “Finding Common Ground, Pursuing Common Good.”
Social and emotional learning is critical to our mission at The Foundations School. CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning) divides social and emotional learning into five key areas: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. These areas are impacted by a child’s caregivers and family, classroom, school, and community. Studies show that social and emotional learning improves skills, behavior, and academic performance while reducing anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
This year’s SEL Day theme “Finding Common Ground, Pursuing Common Good,” highlights how social and emotional learning skills are critical to building community and standing up for others. Social and emotional learning teaches students how to communicate effectively, how to manage their emotions, and how to work together as a team. These practices are useful for students in the classroom and beyond.
At The Foundations School, we know that emotional and social health is necessary for academic and creative learning. We start every day with a morning meeting, where students can share what is on their mind. We offer yoga and integrate “brain breaks” into a child’s day. And we aim to build a community, where students feel comfortable and connected to the people around them. These practices are critical to building a strong learning environment.
If you want to learn more about The Foundation School’s commitment to social and emotional learning, click here.