Social-Emotional Learning.
Mmmmm….
There are few topics that can really get me going like SEL.
Why?
Social-emotional learning is the basis for EVERYTHING. We are social creatures. We learn best through social-interactions (see social-learning theorist Bandura and to a lesser extent Brofenbrenner, Vygotsky, Piaget).
Social-emotional learning encompasses skills such as impulse control and emotional regulation both of which have been shown to increase student achievement and future success. Why then do teachers feel that they “don’t have the time” or that it “isn’t my job”? Why rely on behavior charts or clips to entice students to “behave”?
If we want our littles to have a deep understanding of content we need to ensure their “Maslow needs” are met first. Emotional safety is needed before a student can reach “self-actualization”. Put another way students need to have a stable emotional state before they can learn at a deep level. Don’t believe me? Check the research. Learn about what the brain does when a child, no a human, is upset. How does a chart correct that? How does a chart teach a child to get themselves back to neutral?
Our kids deserve better. Are you willing to make a change? Are you ready to #ditchtheclips ?
Do you have questions on how to “prime before you paint”? Want to know more? Ask away!
