Social Emotional Learning

State of Connecticut, List of behavioral health resources for parents who may have a child struggling with a behavioral health need Click here


Helping Our Children by supporting their mental health - Resource from the CT state Department of Education

Helping_Our_Children_Supporting_Their_Mental_Health.pdf

What is Social Emotional Learning and Why is it important?


SEL is the process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.


Graduating from high school and being prepared for college and career success require a much broader set of skills, including the ability to navigate life’s challenges, maintain healthy relations, manage one’s own emotions and behaviors, and having an understanding and awareness of one’s own social and cultural identity and views about cultural differences.

5 Core Competencies of Social Emotional Learning

  1. Self Awareness

    • What is it?

      • Self-awareness means having the ability to understand your thoughts, emotions, and values, as well as knowing how those factors influence your behavior.

    • Teach yourself how to...

      • Identify your emotions

      • See yourself honestly

      • Recognize your strengths and weaknesses

      • Assess your abilities and interests

      • Work toward growth

    • Click here for activities, videos and apps!

  2. Self Management

    • What is it?

      • Self-management skills are your ability to regulate and control your actions, feelings, and thoughts.

    • Teach yourself how to...

      • Take care of yourself

      • How to handle stress

      • Practice being patient

      • Control your impulses

      • Persevere in overcoming obstacles

      • Click here for activities

Social and Emotional Learning Strategies for Parents

  • Be a good listener

  • Model the behavior you seek

  • Nurture your child's self-esteem

  • Respect differences

  • Take advantage of support services

  • Do a job together