Teaching emotional and social skills to children has a multitude of positive outcomes, both in the short term and over a longer period of time. Immediate improvements have been noted in mental health outcomes, social skills, and academic achievement of children who partake in SEL programs in the classroom (CASEL, 2017). Additionally, students that participate in SEL programs demonstrate improved classroom behaviour, an increased ability to manage stress and depression, and better attitudes about themselves, others, and school (CASEL, 2017).
A recent study published by the American Journal of Public Health also documented the lifetime outcomes of early SEL. There were significant links between SEL skills in early education, and positive outcomes for young adults later in terms of education, employment, conduct and mental health (Jones, Greenberg, & Crowley, 2015).
SEL in the Classroom
There are important social, emotional, and academic components that interact in the school setting. Students are required to interact and learn in a collaborative environment, under the direction of teachers and with the cooperation of peers (Durlak, Weissberg, Dymnicki,Taylor, & Schellinger, 2011).
Emotions and social interactions in the classroom, therefore, may facilitate or hinder a child’s academic engagement, work ethic, commitment, comfort and overall school success. <h2>, to navigate challenging emotional or social situations, allows them to maximise their academic potential and creates a safe and inclusive learning environment for all.