Social-emotional learning (SEL) is often referred to as the missing piece in American education. Increasing numbers of educators, however, are eager to implement research-based SEL approaches with their students.

Social-emotional learning (SEL) is often referred to as the missing piece in American education. Increasing numbers of educators, however, are eager to implement research-based SEL approaches with their students.

The hallmarks of a strong SEL program include an emphasis on self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Following are a few practical examples that classrooms, schools and out-of-school-time settings have found to be effective:

• Institute program-wide meetings where students and staff can come together for healthy discussion. Respectful communication on issues, projects, goals and so on builds a sense of community and creates a trusting environment.
• Emphasize responsibility by assigning jobs, duties or helpful tasks that provide everyone with the opportunity to contribute to the management and success of the program.
• Encourage creativity by providing students with ongoing opportunities to express themselves and their feelings through visual arts, music, writing, or performing arts. Research shows that you'll be helping them cope with the inevitable difficulties in life.

It can be challenging to integrate SEL into your already busy program. Here's how educators can be prepared:

• Be your program's SEL champion! Know the research findings, and advocate based on the proven effectiveness of SEL.
• Collectively define your program's SEL learning goals by engaging all staff to decide what is most important to you.
• Seek out professional-development opportunities to learn more about what works best in SEL, as well as to ensure that your program is prepared and has the capacity to incorporate SEL programming.
• Monitor progress to assess whether your SEL program is achieving its intended outcomes, and work together to adjust the program as needed.

Working together, educators can seamlessly integrate SEL into their programs and make a difference in their students' futures!