48 Simple Social-Emotional Learning Activities for All Ages

Social-emotional learning (SEL) is a crucial part of a student’s education, helping them develop skills like self-management, self-awareness, social awareness, relationship building, and decision-making. These skills are essential for students of all ages, from preschool to high school. While some schools may have a formal SEL curriculum in place, there are many activities that teachers can incorporate into their daily routines to promote social-emotional learning.

1. Reference an emotions bulletin board: Creating a bulletin board with different emotions helps students identify and express their feelings. This can be used for various activities like morning meetings, literature analysis, and character studies.
2. Start the day with a greeting: Greeting each student at the door sets a positive tone for the day and provides an opportunity for a quick check-in with each student.
3. Use a feelings chart: Regular discussions about feelings using a feelings chart can help students practice expressing and managing their emotions effectively.
4. Set a daily mindfulness routine: Incorporating mindfulness activities at the start of the day or lesson can help students calm their minds and focus on the present moment.
5. Practice positive affirmations: Encouraging students to use positive self-talk through affirmations can boost their self-esteem and confidence.
6. Get into the habit of journaling: Journaling can help students reflect on their thoughts and feelings, promoting self-awareness and emotional expression.
7. Take regular brain breaks: Brain breaks help students reset and refocus, enhancing their ability to learn and engage in activities.
8. Use the Worry Iceberg: This activity helps students understand complex emotions by exploring the underlying causes of their worries and anxieties.
9. Maximize transitions for self-awareness: Using transition times for emotional health check-ins can help students become more aware of their feelings and emotions.
10. Introduce the Zones of Regulation: This tool helps students identify their emotional state and choose appropriate strategies to regulate their emotions.

    These activities not only promote social-emotional learning but also create a positive and supportive classroom environment where students can thrive academically and emotionally. Incorporating these activities into daily routines can help students develop essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.