10 Best Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools: Enhance Social Emotional Learning Today
In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, fostering social emotional learning (SEL) in schools is more crucial than ever. SEL tools and apps are transforming the way educators support students’ emotional well-being,helping them develop essential life skills such as empathy,self-awareness,and responsible decision-making. Whether you’re a teacher, school administrator, or school counselor, integrating the right SEL resources can have a profound positive impact on your students’ success and mental health. In this extensive guide, we uncover the 10 best SEL tools and apps for schools and provide actionable advice to effectively incorporate them into your classrooms.
What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL) & Why is it Essential?
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is a process through which children and adults develop core emotional and social competencies like self-awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. SEL empowers students to better understand thier emotions, build healthy relationships, and confidently deal with daily challenges.
- SEL improves academic outcomes and classroom behavior.
- It helps in reducing emotional distress and discipline issues.
- Students gain lifelong skills for personal and professional success.
Benefits of Using SEL Tools & Apps in Schools
The adoption of digital SEL tools brings a unique edge to teaching social-emotional skills:
- Personalized learning experiences: apps adapt to individual student needs.
- Data-driven insights: Educators receive real-time analytics on student progress.
- accessible support: 24/7 resources for students,parents,and teachers.
- Engaging learning methods: Gamification, videos, and interactive exercises boost participation.
10 Best Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools
Here are the top-rated SEL tools and apps reshaping social emotional learning in schools:
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1. Second Step
Second Step is a leading SEL program with digital, teacher-kind resources for PreK-8 students. It covers emotion management, problem-solving, and empathy through engaging lessons, videos, and family interaction materials.
- User-friendly curriculum and lesson plans.
- Integrated professional progress for educators.
- Proven effectiveness in improving SEL outcomes.
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2. ClassDojo
ClassDojo connects teachers, students, and families via an intuitive platform. Its Big ideas series introduces SEL concepts such as mindfulness and empathy with animated videos and interactive activities.
- Simple communication and feedback system.
- Engaging platform for building classroom community.
- Free access for teachers and families.
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3. CharacterStrong
CharacterStrong focuses on teaching character development and SEL through a robust digital curriculum for K-12. Each lesson is actionable and emphasizes kindness, honesty, and leadership.
- Research-backed,bite-sized lessons.
- Resources for school-wide SEL initiatives.
- Ongoing support and training for educators.
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4. Zones of Regulation App
This interactive app adapts the popular Zones of Regulation framework, guiding students to recognize, understand, and regulate their emotions through visual tools and scenarios.
- Supports emotional awareness and self-regulation.
- Customizable for different age groups and needs.
- Great for individual or group intervention.
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5. Peekapak
Peekapak delivers SEL through story-based learning, integrating literacy with social-emotional themes. Its platform includes stories, lessons, and family engagement resources in English and Spanish.
- Story-driven, interactive lessons.
- Aligned with CASEL competencies.
- Built-in progress monitoring for educators.
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6. EVERFI – Character Playbook
EVERFI’s Character Playbook is a free, online curriculum teaching middle and high school students about healthy relationships, conflict resolution, and responsible decision-making via interactive modules.
- Scenario-based learning and assessments.
- ideal for upper elementary, middle, and high school.
- Comprehensive exterior resources for deeper exploration.
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7. Mood Meter app
Based on Yale’s RULER approach, the Mood Meter app helps students and educators check in with their feelings and develop emotional intelligence skills. Users identify emotions and get personalized strategies for mood regulation.
- Promotes self-reflection and emotional vocabulary.
- Suitable for all ages, from elementary to adult learners.
- Helpful data reports and easy-to-use interface.
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8. Inner Explorer
Inner Explorer delivers daily mindful audio practices for students and staff, making mindfulness and stress reduction doable within the school schedule. Lessons last just 5-10 minutes.
- Easy integration into morning routines or transitions.
- Evidence-based impact on focus, behavior, and achievement.
- Includes Spanish versions and parent resources.
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9. Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame
Designed for younger children, Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame is a free app from Sesame Street that teaches problem-solving, emotional control, and resilience with playful, interactive activities.
- Friendly, familiar Sesame characters engage kids.
- Available in English and Spanish.
- Includes tips and activities for parents and educators.
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10. School-Connect
School-Connect provides comprehensive, video-rich SEL curriculum for high schools, focusing on building safe and supportive classrooms, emotional skills, and college/career readiness.
- 120+ multimedia lessons and discussion guides.
- Easy integration with existing advisory periods.
- Resources for online, hybrid, or in-person settings.
Practical Tips for Integrating SEL apps in the Classroom
- Start Small: Pilot one tool or app with a select class or group, gradually expanding based on feedback.
- Involve the Community: Train staff, inform parents, and explain the benefits to students for a smooth roll-out.
- Measure Progress: Use built-in analytics to track student engagement and SEL growth.
- Embed in Daily Routines: Consistency is key.Schedule regular SEL check-ins, mindfulness breaks, or emotion charts.
- Combine Digital and Offline Strategies: Reinforce learning through discussions, projects, and journaling outside the app.
Case Study: Implementing SEL Apps for Whole-School Success
Sunrise Elementary School integrated ClassDojo and second Step into their school-wide SEL initiative. Teachers noticed a 35% decrease in behavioral referrals and higher student engagement during class discussions. By involving parents through the classdojo platform, Sunrise Elementary fostered a supportive, communicative community, strengthening student growth both academically and emotionally.
First-Hand Feedback from Educators
“Using Mood Meter daily gave my students the vocabulary to articulate their feelings. I noticed better peer interactions and more focused participation.”
— Ms. Carter, 4th Grade teacher
“The Inner Explorer audio mindfulness sessions have been a favorite routine in our classroom. I’ve seen decreased anxiety and improved readiness for learning, especially after lunchtime.”
— Mr. Evans,Middle School Counselor
Conclusion: Start Enhancing SEL in Your School Today
With the wide variety of SEL apps and tools available,schools can effectively nurture the social and emotional well-being of their students,cultivating a positive,inclusive,and resilient school climate. whether your focus is on mindfulness, emotion regulation, empathy, or character building, these top 10 SEL tools deliver engaging content and practical resources to make a real difference. Start exploring these solutions to empower your educators and propel your students towards lifelong success—enhance social emotional learning in your school today!
Further Reading & Resources