As students, teachers, and parents gear up for a new school year, the excitement of going back to school is often palpable. But concealed behind that excitement is often the anxiety students feel about adjusting to a new teacher, meeting new classmates, and getting back into a school routine schedule. This is why social emotional learning (SEL) at the beginning of the school year helps lay the foundation for a positive, productive, and supportive school environment, setting the stage for academic and personal success.

The Critical Role of SEL at the Start of the School Year

Social emotional learning helps students learn and effectively apply skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.

By integrating SEL into the back-to-school curriculum, educators can nurture students' emotional intelligence in tandem with their academic growth, resulting in the following benefits:  

Classroom Environment

The start of the school year is the time when establishing classroom norms and developing a classroom culture occurs. SEL can help educators create a more inclusive and respectful environment in which students feel valued and understood. When students feel safe and supported, they are more likely to engage in learning and participate actively in class activities.

Emotional Wellbeing

Academic Performance

There is a strong correlation between SEL and academic success. Students who develop strong social and emotional skills are better equipped to concentrate, stay organized, and persevere as they navigate challenges. By prioritizing SEL at the beginning of the school year, educators can boost students' academic motivation and performance.  

Peer Relationships

Strong social skills are key to forming positive relationships with peers. SEL programs teach students effective communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution skills. These abilities are especially important at the start of the school year when students are forming new friendships and adjusting to new social dynamics.  

Practical Strategies for Integrating SEL at the Start of the School Year

Make SEL a part of your daily routine by starting the day with a morning check-in, a time when students can share their thoughts and feelings. This practice fosters a sense of community and sets a positive tone for the day. Then, find ways to incorporate SEL throughout the school day. Integrate SEL into the curriculum by including activities and lessons focused on emotional regulation, empathy, and relationship building. Introduce mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, to help students manage stress, improve focus, and promote emotional wellbeing.  

As we prepare for the new school year, it is essential to recognize the profound impact that social emotional learning can have on a successful back-to-school experience. By prioritizing SEL at the beginning of the school year, schools can ensure that students are equipped with the skills they need to navigate the complexities of both their academic and their personal lives, paving the way for a brighter, more resilient future.  

Incorporating play into daily routines at home and at school can significantly enhance the development of SEL competencies. By providing opportunities for different kinds of play, caregivers and educators can create rich environments where children can thrive socially and emotionally.

Learn more about our social emotional learning model here: https://www.schoolday.com/resources/modelhttps://www.schoolday.com/resources/model