22/06/2022
The 2-minute SEL series:
Hi friends!
Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing ideas on Social Emotional Learning, school climate and culture, teacher and student well-being, growth mindset, and various other topics! Get involved and let's make schools kinder places!
1. What is SEL?
Where did it begin?
SEL has been around since the 90's when Peter Salovey and John Mayer published a paper about Emotional Intelligence. Since then, it has evolved and shifted.
The way I understand it - without getting too technical, is that it is the ability to manage ourselves and our inner world (our emotions, thoughts, mindsets etc.) and the world around us (our relationships, environments, interactions etc.)
This can include everything from naming our emotions to effective communication.
But let's think about it even more simply.
When we understand what is going on in our bodies and minds we feel more at ease. When we feel cared for and we belong, we are more likely to thrive.
Let's start thinking about SEL as a human need!
We need to learn how to manage our emotions and mindsets to cope and progress in life. We need to learn how to deal with other people to navigate the world.
When we combine these set of skills, we are more likely to become successful people!
Lastly, if you have not watched Adam Sandler's new movie "Hustle", stop what you are doing and watch it.
Without giving away any spoilers, Sandler's role as a coach, a motivator, and a shifter of mindsets is what we need parents and teachers to model in the work of SEL.
We also must see our students and children like "Bo Cruz", scared and afraid but also having tremendous ability which we must see and nurture.
Let's start our SEL journey together and raise a generation which know how to manage themselves and have the knowledge that they have something unique to add to society!
