Authored by Neeta Bali, Director of Seth Anandram jaipuria Schools
Ines Kudo, Senior Education Specialist and John Hartley, specialist in Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) feels that Emotions are the core of any human experience whereas relationships play an integral role in helping us become human. Man is a gregarious by nature, hence the need to connect to others comes naturally to us and that is where emotions come into play .
Educators all over the World are realising that paying attention to social skills and emotional learning is as significant as academic achievement. It has also been proven that in the World of today when one is seeking employment, these are the skills that come in handy and account for success. More and more employers are placing high premium on EQ or Emotional Quotience.
SES can be taught in Schools through a well- designed curriculum supported by well sequenced and focussed activities. A combination of good academic work and a comprehensive SES leads to enhanced learning and a greater sense of well-being. Teaching students to be aware of their own emotions and in control of their impulses will help them to focus how others feel. Thus nurturing empathy, children can only understand empathy and compassion when they trust themselves.
A teacher is the heartbeat of the classroom who creates a space for student growth, foster relationships from the moment children walk into the classroom & sets the tone for the rest of the day. In classrooms, one can bolster SEL by building a positive classroom culture rather than just addressing disruptive behaviour. Greeting students positively makes them feel welcome & they put greater effort into their learning. Remember to use their names, make eye contact and use non- verbal greetings like a handshake or a wave. Remember it all starts with the teacher. Create an atmosphere which provides a safe space for students to speak up & vent when then are upset. Attempt mindfulness activities like Brain breaks which help children focus & become grounded. Activities like journaling, mindfulness & guided breathing help in self-regulation. Encourage students to read & connect emotionally with the characters & takes talk of their own feelings. Sometimes fictional characters & their trajectories can be a great way of learning how to cope in different situations. Sometimes using emojis to help children identify their emotions can be very helpful. Teachers can constantly support children social & emotional health by planning activities praising profusely when they seek commendable behaviour, modelling appropriate behaviour & allowing time for talking. If possible, create account down corner in your classroom.
A systematic approach integrates socio-emotional learning across all key settings where students learn & live & they are at the heart of the learning process. It is well known that SEL has four elements which are expressed as SAFE
1.S-carefully SEQUENCED activities
2. A – Using ACTIVE strategies to help students cultivate new skills
3. F – FOCUSED setting aside FOCUSED time for developing personal & social skills
4. E –identifying EXPLICIT social & emotional skill sets
SEL describes skills, mind-sets, attitudes & feeling that help students succeed in school life & chosen careers & are undoubtedly a part of a well-rounded Education.
