10 Best Tools and apps Supporting SEL in Schools: Enhance Social-Emotional Learning Today
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is a cornerstone of modern education, empowering students not just academically but also socially and emotionally. With the growing awareness of how crucial SEL is in fostering well-rounded students, educators are increasingly seeking effective SEL tools and apps that support positive behaviors, self-awareness, and emotional health. In this thorough guide, we’ll explore the 10 best SEL tools and apps for schools to enhance your classroom’s environment, boost student engagement, and promote lifelong resilience and empathy.
Table of Contents
- Why SEL Matters in Schools
- Benefits of Using SEL Tools & Apps
- Top 10 Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools
- Practical tips for Implementing SEL Tools
- Real-World Success stories
- Conclusion: Power Up Your SEL Journey
Why SEL Matters in schools
SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) refers to the process through which students acquire skills to recognize and manage their emotions, set positive goals, establish healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. Research confirms that prioritizing SEL in education:
- Improves academic performance
- reduces emotional distress and behavioral issues
- Enhances classroom climate and school connectedness
- Prepares students for life beyond school
With increased stress arising from global events and social changes, having access to specialized SEL resources for schools is more important than ever.
Benefits of Using SEL Tools & Apps
While traditional teaching methods can foster social and emotional skills, technology-powered SEL apps and platforms offer unique advantages:
- Personalized Learning: Tailor SEL activities to individual student needs.
- Real-Time Progress Tracking: Monitor growth and identify challenges quickly.
- Engaging content: Interactive games, videos, and stories captivate students.
- Accessibility: 24/7 access empowers learning beyond the classroom.
- Scalable: Suitable for diverse classes and entire school districts.
Top 10 Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools
Here are the ten best tools and apps that expertly integrate social-emotional learning in schools, suitable for a variety of age groups and learning environments.
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1. Second step
Second Step is one of the most widely used SEL curricula. Its digital and classroom-based solutions focus on skills like emotion management, empathy, and problem-solving for students from PreK to grade 8.
- Research-backed lesson plans
- engaging videos,songs,and handouts
- Teacher resources and progress tracking
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2. Character lab
Character Lab leverages scientific research to build character strengths like gratitude, self-control, and curiosity.Its platform offers practical tips and activities for integrating SEL in schools.
- Character growth playbooks
- Regular research-informed updates
- Free for educators
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3. ClassDojo
ClassDojo is a classroom management and interaction app with built-in SEL features. Students can share their learning journey and earn recognition for positive behavior.
- Instant teacher-student-parent communication
- Growth Mindset and mindfulness resources
- Positive behavior tracking with student avatars
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4. BASE Education
Specifically created for middle and high schoolers, BASE Education offers digital SEL courses that address mental health, substance use, and emotional wellness, tailored for secondary students’ needs.
- Evidence-based digital modules
- Self-reflection and journaling tools
- Data dashboards for educators
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5. panorama Education
panorama Education provides a robust platform for measuring, tracking, and supporting SEL in schools.its analytics dashboard helps educators understand school climate and individual student needs.
- SEL surveys and actionable reports
- Curriculum and intervention suggestions
- Integrates with other school data systems
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6. Peekapak
Peekapak introduces engaging SEL stories and interactive lessons for young learners. Students explore empathy, teamwork, and perseverance through relatable scenarios.
- Literacy-based SEL curriculum
- Aligned to CASEL standards
- Family engagement resources included
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7. Mood Meter
Developed by the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, Mood Meter helps students and educators identify and track their feelings, then provides suggestions on how to regulate them.
- Color-coded emotion chart
- Guided strategies for emotional regulation
- Great for daily emotional check-ins
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8. MimT: Mental Health & SEL App
MimT supports students and teachers with daily SEL check-ins, mindfulness exercises, and personalized wellness activities to nurture positive habits.
- Customizable SEL and wellness prompts
- Privacy-first platform
- Encourages consistent self-reflection
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9. Zones of Regulation
An evidence-based framework helping students recognize and regulate their state of alertness and emotions. Its digital tools make self-regulation engaging and actionable for all ages.
- Emotional identification and management strategies
- Visual tools and printable resources
- Professional development included
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10.GoZen!
GoZen! offers animated programs and online resources to help students transform worry, stress, and negative thinking into resilience and confidence.
- CBT-based lessons and animations
- Parent and teacher resource portals
- Works for individuals, classrooms, or groups
Practical Tips for Implementing SEL Tools
Switching to digital SEL solutions can be seamless with some thoughtful planning. Here’s how schools and teachers can maximize the benefits of these tools and apps:
- Start Small: integrate one or two SEL tools first before scaling up.
- Personalize Your Approach: Choose solutions that align with your student demographics and school needs.
- Train Staff: Offer professional development sessions and provide time for staff to learn and practice new platforms.
- Engage Families: Share access,updates,and SEL activities with parents to reinforce learning at home.
- Monitor and Reflect: Use built-in analytics to review effectiveness and gather feedback from students and staff.
Simple CSS Styling for WordPress Users
If you’d like to visually highlight SEL tools in your posts, consider adding CSS classes in WordPress like below:
.sel-tool-highlight {
background: #eafaf1;
border-radius: 8px;
padding: 16px;
margin: 12px 0;
font-size: 1.06em;
box-shadow: 0 2px 8px rgba(39, 174, 96, 0.05);
}
Real-World Success Stories
Case Study: SEL Transformation at Lakeside Elementary
Lakeside Elementary introduced Peekapak and ClassDojo into its daily routine two years ago. Teachers reported a 40% decrease in classroom disruptions and meaningful gains in student empathy and peer problem-solving. One fifth-grade teacher shared: “Using digital stories and mood check-ins quickly became a favorite part of the day. Parents have noticed that their children communicate feelings more openly at home,to.”
Similarly, a high school that piloted BASE Education saw improvements in attendance and mental-health referrals, as students felt more seen and supported through digital journaling and self-paced modules.
Conclusion: Power Up Your SEL Journey
Integrating SEL tools and apps in the classroom is more than a tech trend—it’s a commitment to the holistic development of students. With the right SEL solutions, you’ll empower young minds to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, laying the groundwork for success in and out of school.
Ready to enhance your school’s SEL program? Explore these leading tools, start with a pilot, and watch your classroom transform into a more empathetic, resilient, and inclusive learning community.