3 SEL Signature Practices
Welcoming Rituals
Activities for Inclusion: Ritual openings establish safety and predictability, support contribution by all voices, set norms for respectful listening, and allow students to connect with one another creating a sense of belonging. to be successful they must be: carefully chosen, connected to the learning of the day, engagingly facilitated, and thoughtfully debriefed.
Good Morning Props
Going around the circle, students pass a prop that's associated with an academic subject and greet each other using an appropriate title. For example, students might pass a magnifying glass and say "Good morning, scientist [classmate's name]", Choose props that reinforce an academic focus for the day.
Optimistic Closures
Reflections and Looking Forward: End each day by having students reflect upon and then identify something that will help them leave on an optimistic note. Perhaps they can share something new that they learned or appreciated during the day; that can be shared with parents or siblings. This provides positive closure, reinforces learning, can connect school to home, and create a moment of looking forward to returning the next school day.
