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What Are They?According to the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional, Learning (CASEL), social-emotional learning (SEL) is “the process through which all young people and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions and achieve personal and collective goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.” Self-awareness and self-management are two of the five components that make up CASEL’s model of SEL. Self-Awareness is simply the ability to be aware of one’s inner life–one’s emotions, thoughts, behaviors, values, preferences, goals, strengths, challenges, attitudes, mindsets, and so forth– and how these elements impact behavior and choices across contexts. A student who is self-aware may notice her fearful emotional response as she is about to take a test. She may feel her heart beat faster and her stomach clench, making her thoughts race as she worries about failing the test. To get out of the test, she considers telling her teacher that she feels sick, but in the end, she recognizes that this behavior is a result of her emotions and thoughts running amok, and she accepts that these reactions can occur when she experiences anxiety. Skills that develop self-awareness include:
Self-management is the ability to navigate and shift in a healthy way one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to make decisions and reach goals that benefit oneself and others. A new sixth grader who is anxious about starting middle school remembers learning from her fifth grade teacher that when she is feeling scared, she can change how she feels by thinking differently about the situation. So, instead of dreading her new school, this student decides to view it as an adventure—one that might bring her new friends, wonderful teachers, and exciting opportunities. Self-management skills include:
Ultimately, self-awareness and self-management are closely linked. For example, being able to stop and calm down when one is upset (self-management), requires skills like recognizing and labeling the emotions and considering how they might be affecting one’s behavior choices (self-awareness). For a deeper dive into the science and practical school-based examples of this science in action, click on the following topics: SEL for Students: The Basics of Emotions Why Are They Important?Overall, research reveals that students with social and emotional skills perform better academically, have stronger relationships with peers and teachers, experience greater well-being, and engage in less risky behavior. In addition, SEL skills positively impact education, employment, and mental health outcomes into adulthood. More specifically, several components of self-awareness and self-management show the following outcomes: “Emotion knowledge” is key to student success.
Managing emotions in a healthy way gives students a head start.
Using self-control to keep studying instead of checking Instagram really matters.
A “growth mindset” benefits students’ academic and social lives.
Goals bolster student achievement.
Practice CollectionsPractices
3-2-1 BridgeDevelop students’ intellectual humility through concept mapping PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes
A Gratitude Poem to the WorldStudents write a letter or poem to express their gratitude to something in the natural world. PreK/Lower Elementary Multiple Sessions
A Moment for Me: A Self-Compassion Break for TeensStudents learn how to comfort themselves during stressful times. Middle School, High School ≤ 15 minutes
A Song of GratitudeStudents identify the many ways that exist to express gratitude.
A Time I Felt GratefulStudents define gratitude and give an example of a time they felt grateful. Upper Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Acts of KindnessStudents draw and write about ways they have acted with kindness towards others. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Another Way of Saying ThanksStudents learn to say “thank you” in American Sign Language and brainstorm non-verbal ways to express gratitude. Upper Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Appreciating Our Bodies: A Body Scan with GratitudeStudents practice a mindful body scan and express gratitude for what their bodies allow them to do. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Barefoot Walk: A Mindful Movement PracticeStudents feel the earth under their feet in this mindful movement practice. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Be Like Nature: Mindfulness for Young ChildrenStudents go outside and experience mindfulness linked to elements of nature. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Beauty EverywhereStudents express gratitude through singing. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Best Possible SelfStudents imagine their lives at 40. (Purpose Challenge Practice #5) Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Body Scan for SleepRelax your body and calm your mind before you sleep. College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Brain Games for "Focus Power": A Set of SEL Kernels PracticesIntroduce students to “Focus Power,” or the ability to sustain attention and ignore distractions when needed. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Brain Games for "Remember Power": A Set of SEL Kernels PracticesIntroduce students to “Remember Power,” or the ability to keep track of, update, and use information over short periods of time. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Brain Games for "Stop and Think Power": A Set of SEL Kernels PracticesIntroduce students to “Stop and Think Power,” or the ability to control impulses and to “think before you act.” PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Brain Games: A Set of SEL Kernels PracticesStudents practice and build executive function skills in whole-class games. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Breath-Counting Mindfulness Practice for Tweens and TeensStudents redirect their attention to their breath each time their minds wander. Middle School, High School ≤ 15 minutes
Brief Body ScanTake a few minutes to relax your body and calm your mind. College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Building Perseverance Through Role-PlayUse drama as a way to motivate students to stick with boring or difficult tasks. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Caring Intentions: Being Kind to OthersStudents consider the intentions of characters in a story who are kind to others. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 1 hour
Challenging Gender Stereotyping and Homophobia in SportsStudents will identify the stereotypes they hold and consider the impact those stereotypes have on the fair treatment of athletes. Middle School, High School ≤ 1 hour
Check for Understanding CircleUse the Circle process to encourage students to safely and respectfully share their level of understanding on an academic topic. Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Check-in Circle for Community BuildingUse the Circle process to build a sense of connection among students and staff by sharing moods, feelings, and moments of joy and pain. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College, Adult ≤ 30 minutes
Compass PointsStudents develop courage by evaluating an idea or proposition and taking a stance on it. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Confronting the -ismsStudents will identify their personal biases and consider how those biases influence their ability to treat others fairly. High School, College Multiple Sessions
Contemplative ReadingStudents read a text slowly and reflect on its personal meaning for them. Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Contemplative WritingStudents explore their thoughts, emotions, or ideas by freewriting on a topic of their choosing, an academic-related question, or an ethical dilemma. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Cool Kid: An SEL Kernels Practice for Fifth GradeA routine for celebrating each student in your class Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Cool Kid: An SEL Kernels Practice for First GradeA routine for celebrating each student in your class PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Cool Kid: An SEL Kernels Practice for Fourth GradeA routine for celebrating each student in your class Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Cool Kid: An SEL Kernels Practice for KindergartenA routine for celebrating each student in your class PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Cool Kid: An SEL Kernels Practice for Second GradeA routine for celebrating each student in your class PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Cool Kid: An SEL Kernels Practice for Sixth GradeA routine for celebrating each student in your class Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Cool Kid: An SEL Kernels Practice for Third GradeA routine for celebrating each student in your class Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Create a Purpose TattooStudents design a tattoo that symbolizes the things that matter most to them. (Purpose Challenge Practice #6)
Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Creating Art Through Contemplative PracticeStudents grow their self-understanding through a contemplative art process that uses their own “scrapbook” of meaningful images. Middle School, High School, College Multiple Sessions
Creating Space for Forgiveness by Letting Go of AngerStudents brainstorm ideas for coping with anger as a first step to forgiveness. Upper Elementary ≤ 1 hour
Crooked Circle: A Game for Building TrustA game involving balance and teamwork that helps build trust. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Crumpled ReminderHelp students (or staff) understand that mistakes are important for learning and growing our intelligence. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Dear Abby: An SEL Kernels Practice for Fifth GradeA discussion that uses scenarios to explore character and citizenship. Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Dear Abby: An SEL Kernels Practice for First GradeA discussion that uses scenarios to explore character and citizenship. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Dear Abby: An SEL Kernels Practice for Fourth GradeA discussion that uses scenarios to explore character and citizenship. Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Dear Abby: An SEL Kernels Practice for KindergartenA discussion that uses scenarios to explore character and citizenship. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Dear Abby: An SEL Kernels Practice for Second GradeA discussion that uses scenarios to explore character and citizenship. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Dear Abby: An SEL Kernels Practice for Sixth GradeA discussion that uses scenarios to explore character and citizenship. Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Dear Abby: An SEL Kernels Practice for Third GradeA discussion that uses scenarios to explore character and citizenship. Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Developing a Growth Mindset About Bullies and VictimsStudents shift their beliefs about people’s ability to change.
Developing a Growth Mindset About People’s Ability to ChangeReduce student anxiety by changing students’ beliefs about social challenges.
Dialogue Journals for Elementary StudentsTeachers and students converse with each other through letter writing. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary ≤ 1 hour
Dialogue Journals for High School StudentsTeachers and students converse with each other through writing.
Dialogue Journals for Middle School StudentsTeachers and students converse with each other through writing.
Discover Your Great Full SelfStudents identify their strengths to increase self-understanding. (Gratitude for Tweens and Teens Lesson 1) Middle School, High School ≤ 1 hour
Discovering Your Strengths and TalentsStudents reach out to trusted adults to ask what they think are students’ strengths and talents. (Purpose Challenge Practice #1) Middle School, High School, College ≤ 1 hour
Dot Card Number TalkA short but powerful number sense activity that shows students the visual nature of math, creativity in math, and that there are many different ways people see math. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Drawing as a Way to Manage EmotionsStudents experience drawing as a strategy that can help shift unpleasant emotions to calmer, more pleasant ones. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Earthrise: Bearing Witness to Our PlanetStudents reflect on what it means to "bear witness" to something. Middle School, High School, College Multiple Sessions
Earthrise: Cultivating Global CitizenshipStudents reflect on how the Earthrise photograph offered humans a new way to see the Earth: without borders or boundaries. Middle School, High School, College Multiple Sessions
Earthrise: Fostering AweStudents reflect on how the Earthrise photograph instills a sense of awe and wonder towards our planet. Middle School, High School, College Multiple Sessions
Eating a Raisin with MindfulnessPractice slowing down and bringing your full awareness to a sensory experience. College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Encouraging Moral Character Through LanguageTeachers will foster students’ moral identity through selective use of language in the classroom. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 30 minutes
Encouraging Prosocial Actions in StudentsStudents engage in prosocial (kind, helpful) actions for ten days and reflect on the impact of their actions on themselves and others. Middle School, High School, College Multiple Sessions
Exemplars Who Inspire Intellectual HumilityInspire students to practice intellectual humility by introducing them to what intellectual humility is, what it looks like, and why it is valuable. Middle School, High School ≤ 30 minutes
Exploring Your Personal ValuesStudents explore and reflect on their values. (Purpose Challenge Practice #4) Middle School, High School, College ≤ 1 hour
Expressing GratitudeStudents reflect on why another person acted kindly towards them, and practice gratitude both verbally & in writing. Upper Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Expressive WritingStudents use writing as a tool to explore their emotions and challenges Middle School, High School, College, Adult Multiple Sessions
Feeling Connected for StudentsStudents think about a time when they felt close to someone in order to foster a sense of belonging and well-being. Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes
Feelings Circle: An SEL Kernels Practice for Fifth GradeIn a group meeting, students share their feelings while also building their feelings vocabulary and emotion knowledge. Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Feelings Circle: An SEL Kernels Practice for First GradeIn a group meeting, students share their feelings while also building their feelings vocabulary and emotion knowledge. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Feelings Circle: An SEL Kernels Practice for Fourth GradeIn a group meeting, students share their feelings while also building their feelings vocabulary and emotion knowledge. Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Feelings Circle: An SEL Kernels Practice for KindergartenIn a group meeting, students share their feelings while also building their feelings vocabulary and emotion knowledge. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Feelings Circle: An SEL Kernels Practice for Second GradeIn a group meeting, students share their feelings while also building their feelings vocabulary and emotion knowledge. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Feelings Circle: An SEL Kernels Practice for Sixth GradeIn a group meeting, students share their feelings while also building their feelings vocabulary and emotion knowledge. Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Feelings Circle: An SEL Kernels Practice for Third GradeIn a group meeting, students share their feelings while also building their feelings vocabulary and emotion knowledge. Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Feelings of GratitudeStudents identify emotions related to gratitude. Upper Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Finding Silver LiningsStudents and staff lessen their stress by changing their outlook on a negative event. Middle School, High School, College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Finger Tracing: Mindful Breathing for StudentsStudents track their breathing as they trace up and down the fingers of one hand. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Flipping Complaints Into GratitudeStudents practice turning complaints into gratitude statements. Middle School ≤ 30 minutes
Flow and TellIn this circle activity, students practice mindful speaking and mindful listening. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 15 minutes
Fostering Empathy Through Literature (Elementary Level)A list of discussion questions to help cultivate students’ empathy. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Fostering Empathy Through Literature (Middle School & High School)A list of discussion questions to help cultivate students’ empathy. Middle School, High School ≤ 30 minutes
Freeze Feelings: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to develop students' self-control by stopping themselves from moving or dancing when the music stops PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
From Sympathy to ActionStudents think about the factors that encourage and discourage people to act when they confront suffering or injustice. High School, College ≤ 1 hour
Giving ThanksStudents define gratitude and name things they’re grateful for. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Giving and Receiving Feedback in Physical EducationStudents cultivate moral reasoning skills and humility through a peer-feedback process focused on P.E. skills. Middle School, High School ≤ 15 minutes
Giving is ReceivingStudents reflect on acts of kindness and how they often require intention and effort on the part of the person who does them. Upper Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Good Group Work in MathA norm-setting activity to help create an environment for productive, positive, and equitable group work in math class PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Gratitude InterviewStudents interview an older person about gratitude, deepening their own understanding of gratitude. Middle School ≤ 30 minutes
Gratitude Journal for StudentsStudents write five things they’re grateful for once a day for two weeks. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 15 minutes
Gratitude MirrorStudents deepen their understanding of gratitude by “embodying” it. Upper Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Gratitude Nature WalkStudents take a mindful walk in nature, noting what they are grateful for, and create a collaborative art piece of their experience. Upper Elementary ≤ 1 hour
Gratitude QuotesStudents interpret and role-play a variety of quotes about gratitude.
Hocus Pocus, Everybody Focus: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to cultivate students’ focus and attention by listening carefully and remembering the right motion PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Honesty Commitment for StudentsStrategies to encourage and help students practice honesty PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Hot Potato: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to develop students' memory and attention by remembering what you're supposed to do while doing a different motion. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
How Would You Treat A Friend?Learn to comfort yourself in the ways you would comfort good friends. High School, College, Adult ≤ 30 minutes
I See You. Everyone Matters.Acknowledge the faces of everyone in your classroom or meeting to deepen a sense of group connection. High School, College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
I Spy: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to build students’ focus and attention by practicing careful looking to find the object that another person is thinking of PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Imagining Flourishing and Kindness: A Mindfulness Practice for AdultsMentally cultivate kindness toward yourself and consider how you might be of service to others College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Inspiring AweBroaden students’ thinking and connection to something larger than themselves Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes
Introduction to ForgivenessStudents explore what forgiveness is and what it is not. Upper Elementary ≤ 1 hour
It's Up to Us to Stick Our Necks OutStudents hear and share inspiring stories compassionate risk-takers and then develop their own service project. Middle School, High School, College Multiple Sessions
Kindness BuddyStudents get a secret kindness buddy to do a kind act for during the week. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Learning from Courageous ForgiversStudents learn about forgiveness from book characters. Upper Elementary ≤ 1 hour
Listening to Music MindfullyStudents listen to a song or piece of music and observe their responses. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 15 minutes
Looking for Gratitude in SchoolStudents walk silently around school, noticing people they are grateful for and telling them so.
PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 1 hour
Loving-Kindness Buddy WishesStudents extend kindness to themselves and others. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Loving-Kindness for AdultsMentally cultivate kindness toward yourself and others. College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Loving-Kindness for Someone You Care AboutStudents mentally send good wishes to someone who is important to them. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 15 minutes
Magic TagA magical game of tag that promotes inclusion and teamwork. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Magic WandStudents describe their ideal world and how they might contribute to creating that world. (Purpose Challenge Practice #2) Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Making Science MeaningfulStudents reflect on how their science learning is relevant to their lives. Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes
Making a DifferenceStudents learn that when someone does something kind, it takes time and effort.
Man’s Search for MeaningStudents reflect on a Viktor Frankl quote about why meaning in life is important. (Purpose Challenge Practice #3) Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Meaningful Photos for StudentsStudents use photography or drawing to explore purpose and meaning in their lives. Middle School, High School, College Multiple Sessions
Mindful Breathing for AdultsBecome aware of the movement of your breath through your body. College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Mindful Listening for StudentsStudents learn to notice sounds, their beginnings and endings, and the silent spaces between each sound. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Mindful Movement for TeensStudents learn to notice body sensations and release sources of physical tension. Middle School, High School
Mindful Music MomentsA daily mindfulness and music appreciation practice for the whole school or a single classroom PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Mindful Poetry MomentsA daily mindfulness and poetry appreciation practice for the whole school or a single classroom Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Mindful Seeing for Elementary StudentsStudents pay close attention to the experience of seeing while observing an object. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Mindful Self-Compassion for AdultsConnect with your natural capacity to care for yourself College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Mindful Walking for AdultsA practice to cultivate calmness, connectedness, and physical awareness. College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Mindset Boosting Messages for MathBoost students’ growth mindset in math through a short video and discussion Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 1 hour
My Hat Has 3 Corners: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to build students' focus and attention by remembering when to use motions instead of words. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
My Mind is a Cast of Characters: Exploring the Nature of Our ThoughtsStudents learn how their thoughts can affect them. Middle School, High School ≤ 30 minutes
My Mindful Brain for K-3Grades K-3 students learn about the three parts of the brain that are involved with emotion regulation, attention, and learning. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Name Game: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to develop student's memory and attention by remembering what each person has said and repeating it in the correct order PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Notes to Self: An SEL Kernels Practice for Fifth GradeStudents take time to reflect on positive experiences, attributes, and/or aspirations. Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Notes to Self: An SEL Kernels Practice for First GradeStudents take time to reflect on positive experiences, attributes, and/or aspirations. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Notes to Self: An SEL Kernels Practice for Fourth GradeStudents take time to reflect on positive experiences, attributes, and/or aspirations. Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Notes to Self: An SEL Kernels Practice for KindergartenStudents take time to reflect on positive experiences, attributes, and/or aspirations. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Notes to Self: An SEL Kernels Practice for Second GradeStudents take time to reflect on positive experiences, attributes, and/or aspirations. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Notes to Self: An SEL Kernels Practice for Sixth GradeStudents take time to reflect on positive experiences, attributes, and/or aspirations. Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Notes to Self: An SEL Kernels Practice for Third GradeStudents take time to reflect on positive experiences, attributes, and/or aspirations. Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Noticing KindnessStudents identify ways that they have acted with kindness towards others. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Number TalkA brief learning activity that demonstrates the many different ways people see math and builds students’ flexibility with numbers. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Nurturing Students’ Wonder and CuriosityTap into students’ questions and and encourage them to wonder about the world around them. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Obstacles to Expressing GratitudeStudents explore ways to overcome what keeps us from expressing our thanks.
Pleasant Events Calendar for StudentsHelp students plan enjoyable activities as a form of self-care Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes
Promoting Perspective-Taking Through the Use of LiteratureReview and expand your classroom or school library with books that represent diverse backgrounds. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 30 minutes
Purpose CompassA process for helping students generate purposeful projects or endeavors Middle School, High School ≤ 1 hour
Purpose Quotes ReflectionStudents choose a quote about purpose and reflect on why it resonates with them. (Purpose Challenge Practice #7) Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Put Down the Put-DownsCreate class community by brainstorming ways to stop put-downs. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 1 hour
Questions of WonderBuild trust and understanding among students by exploring questions of wonder. Middle School, High School Multiple Sessions
Random Acts of KindnessStudents practice kindness to increase their happiness PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College Multiple Sessions
Reading Ourselves Whole: A Contemplative Choral Reading MethodLead a brief choral reading practice that fosters community and connection. High School, College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Reducing Test Anxiety Through ArtHelp students calm themselves through a short coloring exercise. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes
Reflecting on Moral Dilemmas with Practical WisdomStudents cultivate practical wisdom by working through a moral dilemma and deciding on a course of action. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 1 hour
Reflecting on SEL SkillsStudents discuss the SEL skills touched upon during the activity in which they have just participated. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Reminders that Encourage Moral Character StrengthsFoster students’ moral identity through story writing. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 1 hour
Respectful DebateStudents share their opinions and disagreements in healthy ways. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 1 hour
Rhyming Body Scan for Young ChildrenStudents practice noticing body sensations and relaxing body parts. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Rock-a-bye: Mindful Breathing for Elementary StudentsStudents learn to relax their bodies and quiet their minds. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
SOBER Breathing Space for TeensStudents briefly check-in with themselves and focus their attention on their breath. Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes
Scientific Body Scan VisualizationStudents practice appreciating the body’s processes in a deeply mindful way. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes
See the Good ChallengeStudents recognize the costs and benefits involved in a kind act. (Gratitude for Tweens and Teens Lesson 2) Middle School, High School ≤ 1 hour
Seeing the Good in OthersStudents look for the good in others by acknowledging each other’s strengths. (Gratitude for Tweens and Teens Lesson 3) Middle School, High School ≤ 1 hour
Self-Care CircleUse the Circle process to encourage self-care among staff and students in all dimensions. Middle School, High School, College, Adult ≤ 30 minutes
Self-Compassion Break for AdultsLearn how to comfort yourself during stressful times. College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Self-Compassionate Letter for AdultsPractice understanding and acceptance for yourself rather than self-criticism. College, Adult ≤ 15 minutes
Shake It OffStudents observe their breath while relaxing and tensing their bodies, and then practice shaking and freezing their bodies. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 15 minutes
Sharing Gratitude StoriesStudents share stories about a time they felt grateful. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
Shipwreck: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to develop students' memory and attention by remembering what motions accompany each phrase, and doing them correctly quickly PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Silly Stories: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to develop students' self-control by doing the correct (silly) motion instead of the automatic one PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Simon Says: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to develop students' self-control by listening for a key phrase before doing an action PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Sing It with Style: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to develop students' self-control by managing how they sing a familiar song PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Standing Up Against DiscriminationStudents explore real-world examples to help them identify peaceful ways to respond to discrimination. High School Multiple Sessions
Strategies for Increasing the Use of SEL SkillsA list of strategies for making explicit connections to SEL skills throughout the day in order to reinforce students’ practice of skills PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 15 minutes
Strategies for Teaching Fearless SEL for Societal ChangeWays to use SEL for cultivating youth agency and civic engagement Middle School, High School, College
Student Self Check-In JournalA values-informed process to help students make the best possible ethical choices Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes
SuperstarStudents build trust and inclusion through a quick and fun game that reveals their commonalities. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Take Home Skill: Creating Space for All EmotionsStrategies for parents and caregivers to show their children they love them by helping them to process their emotions PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
Take-Home Skill: Creating Happy MemoriesStudents spend a day or two doing a variety of meaningful activities. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College, Adult Multiple Sessions
Take-Home Skill: Deliberate Practice for StudentsStrategies for parents and caregivers that teach their children how to practice to help them achieve their goals PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 30 minutes
Take-Home Skill: Pleasant Events Calendar for Kids and TeensA practice for parents and caregivers to help their child or teen plan enjoyable activities as a form of self-care Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes
Thank You for Believing in MeStudents learn how to think gratefully. (Gratitude for Tweens and Teens Lesson 4) Middle School, High School ≤ 1 hour
The Cycle of GratitudeStudents learn how the positive emotions from gratitude create a cycle of giving.
The Oooh Aaah SongStudents use mindful breathing to regulate their emotions. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 15 minutes
The PendulumStudents learn to manage their emotions in a healthy way by identifying the people and places that influence changes in their emotions. Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
The Virtue of Good SenseStudents define and practice “good sense,” or the will and know-how to do the right thing. High School Multiple Sessions
Three Good Things for StudentsStudents record three good things that happened to them each day for a week. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 15 minutes
Through the Looking GlassStudents cultivate courage, empathy, and compassion by sharing and listening to others comment on how others see them versus who they really are. High School Multiple Sessions
Truth in Journalism and Dorothy ThompsonStudents cultivate courage by making a commitment to engage in a courageous act. Middle School, High School ≤ 30 minutes
Tug for TruthDevelop students’ intellectual humility by helping them to ask questions while thoughtfully evaluating evidence. Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes
Understanding Inherent Worth: A Path towards ForgivenessStudents explore how every person has dignity and worth—even those who hurt us. Upper Elementary ≤ 1 hour
Understanding Prejudice Through Paper Plate PortraitsStudents identify others' assumptions about them and then describe who they really are on the inside. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary ≤ 1 hour
Understanding Universe of ObligationStudents explore how groups, communities, and nations define who belongs and who does not, and how these decisions are made.
Understanding the Brain for Grades 4-7Grade 4-7 students learn about the three parts of the brain that are involved with emotion regulation, attention, and learning. Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 1 hour
Wait for It: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to develop students' self-control by waiting before doing a series of motions. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
What Friends DoStudents learn how kindness and gratitude strengthen friendships through Splat the Cat. PreK/Lower Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
What If We Didn’t Have ThisStudents imagine what life would be like without certain things in our classrooms or schools. Upper Elementary ≤ 30 minutes
What Is A Flourishing Life?Students explore and write about what makes a good life. High School Multiple Sessions
What Really MattersStudents identify what gets in the way of expressing gratitude. Upper Elementary ≤ 1 hour
What is Gratitude?Students define gratitude and the many forms it takes. Middle School Multiple Sessions
What is Missing? An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to develop students' memory and attention by keeping track of objects in order to tell which one is missing PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
What's the Tint of Your Glasses?Students learn how our different backgrounds give us different perspectives. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School ≤ 1 hour
Where We StandStudents examine how they face everyday moral dilemmas and consider who and what influences their reactions when conflicts arise. Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 1 hour
Who Are Your Heroes?Through stories, discussion, and creative presentations about true heroes, students foster their compassion for others and see brave community involvement as an admirable, heroic way of life. PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School Multiple Sessions
Who Stole the Honey Pot? An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to build students’ focus and attention by listening carefully to hear who stole the honey pot PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Why Do Good People Do Bad Things?Students explore, reflect, and write about being an upstander rather than a bystander. High School Multiple Sessions
Wiggle Cool Down: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to develop students' memory and attention by remembering a series of motions and doing them in the correct order PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
Yes-No-Maybe Current Event DiscussionStudents respectfully discuss their stance on a current event. Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, College ≤ 30 minutes
Zip, Zap, Zop: An SEL Kernels Brain GameA game to cultivate students’ focus and attention by knowing when it is their turn and the right thing to say PreK/Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, Middle School ≤ 15 minutes
“The Guest House” Poem and Body Scan for TeensStudents learn to observe and accept emotions and body sensations. Middle School, High School, College ≤ 15 minutes “Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” |
