Social and Emotional Learning: Creating Supportive Learning Environments for All

Educators, parents, and leaders want youth to develop the necessary social, emotional, and academic competencies to be productive and engaged citizens. Recent research has demonstrated that when schools and districts focus on social and emotional learning (SEL), students’ academic achievement, prosocial behaviors, and positive attitudes improve, while their behavior problems and emotional distress decrease. In addition, focusing on social and emotional development can help create safe, supportive, and equitable learning environments, both in school and in out-of-school settings. Strategies for promoting SEL can be embedded throughout instructional time.

SEL is not simply a strategy for youth. Educators can also learn to improve their social and emotional competencies. For example, educators who practice self-awareness and stress management can more effectively model and encourage these behaviors for students. In addition, educators who apply and reflect on their own SEL skills build a more welcoming environment for youth. 

Explore these selected resources, tools, and reports to discover our research and technical assistance on SEL practices. Together, these resources demonstrate how SEL can contribute to a well-rounded educational setting and improve the conditions for learning for both youth and educators.