How Parents and Schools Can Work Together to Support Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

Introduction

Education is no longer just about grades—it’s about raising children who are emotionally intelligent, resilient, and socially aware. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is a key part of this, but it’s most effective when parents and schools work together to support children’s emotional development.

In a recent episode of Big Little Emotions, SEL expert Chitra Ravi explained why SEL should not be treated as a separate subject but woven into daily learning—both at school and at home. This blog explores how schools and parents can collaborate to create an emotionally nurturing environment for children.

Why the Parent-School Partnership Is Essential for SEL

Schools teach SEL through structured programs, but parents reinforce those lessons at home. When kids receive consistent emotional guidance in both spaces, they are more likely to develop: ✅ Stronger emotional regulation skills✅ Better conflict resolution abilities✅ Higher resilience to setbacks✅ Greater social awareness and empathy

“SEL is not just a school thing—it’s a life skill. The way we react to our children’s emotions at home determines how well they apply SEL principles in real life.” – Chitra Ravi

How Schools Can Support SEL

SEL isn’t just about adding a “life skills” period in the weekly schedule—it should be integrated into the school culture. Here’s how schools can foster SEL effectively:

1️⃣ Creating Emotionally Safe Learning Environments

Children learn best when they feel safe and understood. Schools can:

• Train teachers in emotional intelligence and mindfulness.

• Use emotion check-ins before lessons to help kids recognize their feelings.

• Encourage collaborative learning over competitive learning.

2️⃣ Teaching Emotional Intelligence as a Core Skill

• Introduce daily SEL activities like gratitude journaling or mindful breathing.

• Help children name and express their emotions.

• Foster growth mindset thinking (e.g., replacing “I can’t do this” with “I can’t do this yet”).

“Even if parents think school is only for academics, they need to recognize that emotional well-being is the foundation of academic success.” – Chitra Ravi

How Parents Can Reinforce SEL at Home

1️⃣ Encourage Open Conversations About Emotions

Instead of just asking “How was school?” try:

✅ “What made you smile today?”

✅ “Did anything feel challenging today?”

✅ “How did you help a friend today?”

📝 Tip: Use emotion flashcards to help children name their feelings.

2️⃣ Use Books & Storytelling for Emotional Learning

Reading SEL-themed books together can help kids relate to emotions and problem-solving. Some great books include:

📖 “The Color Monster” (for understanding emotions)

📖 “The Invisible String” (for managing separation anxiety)

📖 Calm Kids storybooks (for social-emotional growth)

“Storytelling isn’t just entertainment—it’s one of the most powerful ways to help children understand emotions.” – Natasha Puri

3️⃣ Teach Problem-Solving Through Play

Instead of jumping in to fix sibling fights, try:

✅ Helping them name their emotions first

✅ Asking, “How can we solve this together?”

✅ Using role-play to practice social skills

🧩 Tip: Board games like The Mindfulness Game or Snakes & Ladders (with emotion-based prompts) can make SEL fun!

4️⃣ Bridge the Gap Between Home & School

• Stay involved in SEL activities at school (e.g., attending SEL workshops).

• Use the same emotional regulation strategies at home as those taught at school.

• Communicate with teachers about any emotional challenges your child is facing.

“When parents and teachers are on the same page about emotional learning, kids thrive.” – Chitra Ravi

Final Thoughts

Social-emotional learning works best when parents and schools collaborate. By reinforcing emotional awareness, resilience, and social skills, we prepare children for a lifetime of success.