Socio-Emotional Learning

Socio-emotional learning (SEL) aims to teach children to make responsible decisions, manage their emotions, and maintain a positive attitude toward school and social relationships. SEL uses classroom instruction, community service, extracurricular activities, and supportive home environments to help children develop into responsible and constructive members of society. SEL begins at home with caregivers and continues with school programs spanning preschool through high school, teaching students social- and self-awareness, impulse control, empathy, cooperation, and problem resolution. This entry describes the history, approaches, and effectiveness of SEL programs.