Managing Emotions & Feelings

Social-Emotional Learning provides a foundation for a safe and positive environment for students to learn. Traditional learning focused solely on content and information that teachers presented to assess if students understood the concepts taught. Research has proven that this teaching method doesn’t work alone with the issues children are now faced with. Children are bombarded with more avenues to media outlets at an earlier age with the use of technology with constant news on disasters and tragic events. Social media has opened another outlet for ongoing cyberbullying and the need for perfection regarding self-image. These examples show that it takes more than traditional teaching to connect with children and create a safe learning atmosphere because traumatic experiences affect learning. Being able to meet a child at a social and emotional point means understanding where they are. Do they need someone to listen to them because they just experienced a loss of a loved one or friend? Do they need someone to assist their family with basic needs such as water or electricity so they can see to complete their homework assignment for the night and not go to school hungry the next day? Do they need someone to understand that they are overloaded with anxiety due to the massive demands of Advanced Placement courses, working 30 hours on a job to help out at home, and being involved in sports, band, or other school activities? Below you will find resources to assist in meeting your child's social and emotional needs. These are just suggestions. There are other resources you can find, in addition to seeking advice from your child’s school/counselor about programs they offer or other local agencies they partner with.