Basics » Definition

What is Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)?

• SEL is a process for helping children and even adults develop the fundamental skills for life effectiveness. SEL teaches the skills we all need to handle ourselves, our relationships, and our work, effectively and ethically.

• These skills include recognizing and managing our emotions, developing caring and concern for others, establishing positive relationships, making responsible decisions, and handling challenging situations constructively and ethically. They are the skills that allow children to calm themselves
  when angry, make friends, resolve conflicts respectfully, and make ethical and safe choices. (See the Skills and Competencies page for more detail.)

• Many of the programs that teach SEL skills have now been rigorously evaluated and found to have positive impacts. According to reliable research, schools are a highly effective setting for teaching SEL skills. (See the Benefits of SEL page.)

• SEL is also a framework for school improvement. Teaching SEL skills helps create and maintain safe, caring learning environments. The most beneficial SEL programs provide sequential and developmentally appropriate instruction in SEL skills. They are implemented in a coordinated manner, schoolwide, from preschool through high school. Lessons are reinforced in the classroom, during out-of-school activities, and at home. Educators receive ongoing professional development in SEL. And families and schools work together to promote children’s social, emotional, and academic success.
  

Additional resources for gaining a better understanding of SEL:

• Background on social and emotional learning. (2007). This CASEL issue brief explains what SEL is, and the value of SEL for students and schools.
  
• Social and emotional learning. Zins, J.E., & Elias, M.E. (2006). In G.G. Bear & K.M. Minke (eds.) Children's Needs III, p1-13. National Assocation of School Psychologists. This book chapter serves as a concise summary of SEL- what it is, why it's needed, how it fits in with systems of supports for students, key components of effective SEL, and the implementation process.
• See our Programs-in-Action section to watch short video clips of SEL in the classroom.