SEL is crucial for students. It helps develop the whole child. Within my school district we use what is called Second Step. Within this SEL Curriculum, we go through different types of feelings, emotions, strategies and skills to become successful learners. Students don't know how to regulate their emotions in a clear and practical way. They see how others act and will act the same way. They need to be shown and guided how to use their words to communicate their emotions and feelings. I am feeling (emotion) because (the reason). I teach them not to use blaming words but to tell me the problem and we think of some ways that we can solve the problem. Once we come up with solutions, we think of any consequences and then pick the best solution. It takes time for sure, but once the students understand what to do, it doesn't end up taking so much time. If teachers model how to regulate their emotions and feelings, the students will see that and have a baseline of what it could look like. I always greet my students with a smile and say their name so they feel included within my classroom. My classroom is organized and I set clear expectations.
