What is Social Emotional Learning?

Social emotional learning (SEL) is defined as the process through which children and adults acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and 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.

At WBP School, we have a vision for SEL and how to grow to understand and manage emotions, care for self and others, develop empathy, build resiliency, and solve problems effectively and ethically. Social emotional learning will empower students to become responsible, productive and contributing members of the global community.

Self-Management

The ability to successfully regulate one’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations — effectively managing stress, controlling impulses, and motivating oneself. The ability to set and work toward personal and academic goals.

Impulse control
Stress management
Self-discipline
Self-motivation
Goal-setting
Organizational skills

Adapted from: Collaborative for Academic Social Emotional Learning (CASEL)

Social Awareness

The ability to take the perspective of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds and cultures. The ability to understand social and ethical norms for behavior and to recognize family, school, and community resources and supports.

Perspective-taking
Empathy
Appreciating diversity
Respect for others

Adapted from: Collaborative for Academic Social Emotional Learning (CASEL)

Relationship Skills

The ability to establish and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships with diverse individuals and groups. The ability to communicate clearly, listen well, cooperate with others, resist inappropriate social pressure, negotiate conflict constructively, and seek and offer help when needed.

Communication
Social engagement
Relationship-building
Teamwork

Adapted from: Collaborative for Academic Social Emotional Learning (CASEL)

Responsible Decision-Making

The ability to make constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions based on ethical standards, safety concerns, and social norms. The realistic evaluation of consequences of various actions, and a consideration of the well-being of oneself and others.

Identifying problems
Analyzing situations
Solving problems
Evaluating
Reflecting
Ethical responsibility

Adapted from: Collaborative for Academic Social Emotional Learning (CASEL)