Social emotional learning (SEL) is the process of learning social and emotional skills through a framework which people of all ages acquire skills that are essential to making informed choices, positive relationships, comprehending and managing their emotions. There are 5 main SEL areas: Self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationships skills and responsible decision making.

Self-awareness allows children to access an understanding of their positive actions that can lead to improved self-image. Self – management allows children to grow and understand the importance of self – management and how it works. Social awareness allows children to understand the importance of how to treat others and yourself. Relationship skills allows children to build healthy and positive relationships with others by teaching an awareness of the other person’s needs. Responsible decision making allows children to make certain decisions that can impact them in their life, like growth and change. (Positive action)

There are multiple reasons why children can benefit from SEL learning, a website on positive action states that it can improve a child’s physical and mental health. “A 2009 study focused on children aged 4 to 14 revealed that introducing social emotional learning resulted in children being able to better regulate their behavior and therefore have more positive social interactions with other students” (Positive Action).

A Courageous Voice offers SEL group classes through our Kids Voices Matter Program for youth in organizations like schools and after school programming that offers benefits to help increase academic performance, improve mental health, increase equity, and promote resilience. 

For more information, please contact us at info@acourageousvoice.org.