10 Essential Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in schools: Boost Social-Emotional Learning Today
In today’s diverse classrooms, fostering students’ social and emotional skills is just as vital as developing academics. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) equips students with the self-awareness,emotional management,and interpersonal skills they need to thrive both in and out of school. Fortunately, educators now have access to a robust set of SEL tools and apps designed to enhance learning, build resilience, and create safer, more supportive environments. In this comprehensive guide, we highlight the 10 essential tools and apps supporting SEL in schools—helping educators, counselors, and administrators boost social-emotional learning today.
What is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Why Does It Matter?
SEL refers to the process by which children and adults acquire and apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to:
- Understand and manage emotions
- Set and achieve positive goals
- Feel and show empathy for others
- Establish and maintain positive relationships
- Make responsible decisions
Numerous studies show that integrating SEL in schools not only improves behavior and school climate but also enhances academic performance. As classrooms become more complex, SEL tools and apps provide crucial support for educators, making SEL practical, engaging, and scalable.
Top 10 Essential Tools and Apps for Supporting SEL in Schools
Here’s a well-researched list of effective SEL platforms that can transform your classroom or school community:
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1. classdojo
ClassDojo is a free platform fostering SEL through digital portfolios, real-time feedback, and positive reinforcement. Teachers can communicate growth, set goals, and celebrate behaviors like empathy and teamwork, making SEL visible to students and families.
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2. Panorama for social-Emotional Learning
Panorama provides powerful SEL survey tools and analytics for schools. Educators use data to understand student well-being, monitor progress, and tailor interventions, ensuring no student falls through the cracks.
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3. Securly Audentify
Securly Audentify tracks student emotions in real-time with AI-driven well-being check-ins. this app helps counselors and teachers intervene early, promoting mental health alongside SEL.
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4. Second Step
Second Step offers classroom-ready SEL lessons and digital resources for pre-K through grade 8. Their age-appropriate activities reinforce empathy, emotion management, and decision-making skills.
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5. Boddle Learning
Boddle delivers SEL experiences blended with math games. Students develop confidence and resilience as they face personalized challenges, supporting both academic and emotional growth.
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6.GoNoodle
GoNoodle encourages movement and mindfulness with video content that helps manage stress, regulate emotions, and build classroom community—perfect for SEL brain breaks.
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7. Peekapak
Peekapak offers story-based SEL lessons and journal reflections, with a focus on literacy and social skills.The engaging characters and interactive activities make SEL relatable for students.
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8. Emotional ABCs
Emotional ABCs focuses on self-regulation and emotion vocabulary for younger learners. Lessons use animation, games, and hands-on activities to teach kids how to navigate feelings and solve social problems.
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9. Flocabulary SEL
Flocabulary leverages rap and storytelling to teach SEL concepts in a memorable way. Videos and activities target topics like conflict resolution, growth mindset, and self-awareness.
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10.Zones of Regulation
Zones of Regulation (and the companion app, The Zones App) supports emotion identification and coping skills using a color-coded system. Students learn to recognise their emotional “zone” and choose appropriate strategies for self-control.
Benefits of Integrating SEL Tools and Apps in Schools
- Increased Student engagement: Interactive SEL apps make lessons more relatable and enjoyable.
- Improved emotional Intelligence: Students build emotional vocabulary and empathy through guided reflection and activities.
- Better Classroom Management: Real-time feedback promotes positive behavior and reduces disruptions.
- Data-Driven Insights: Platforms like Panorama reveal trends in well-being, guiding interventions.
- Family and Community Connections: Many tools include parental interaction features, fostering home-school partnerships.
Practical Tips for Successful SEL integration
- Start Small: Introduce one SEL app or tool to build comfort and routine before expanding.
- Connect SEL to Academics: Integrate SEL activities with core subjects—literature circles, math discussions, or science projects emphasizing teamwork and empathy.
- Model SEL: Teachers and staff should demonstrate emotional regulation and respectful communication, reinforcing skills taught through apps.
- Involve Families: Share SEL topics and activities with parents to promote continuity at home.
- Reflect Regularly: Use journal features, student check-ins, or surveys to gauge progress and adapt lessons.
Case Study: Transforming a School Climate with SEL Tools
Case Example—Riverside Elementary (Pseudonym):
Riverside Elementary was facing increased behavioral incidents and classroom disruptions. Administrators implemented ClassDojo and Second Step schoolwide. Within one semester, teachers noted:
- 40% drop in office referrals
- Higher levels of classroom participation
- Improved teacher-student relationships
- Positive feedback from both families and students
The real-time feedback features helped students become more aware of their emotions, while structured SEL lessons emphasized practical coping strategies. data from surveys guided further intervention for students needing extra support.
First-Hand Experience: Teacher Voices on SEL Apps
“Using GoNoodle and Emotional ABCs has completely changed my classroom’s energy. My students are more mindful and able to talk about their feelings in ways I haven’t seen before.” — Ms. Hernandez, First Grade Teacher
“Panorama helped us identify students who needed check-ins. We could respond quicker and build better relationships as an inevitable result.” — Mr. Jones, Middle School Counselor
Conclusion: Empower Your School Community with SEL Tools and Apps
Social-emotional learning isn’t a trend—it’s an essential part of supporting the whole child. With so many effective SEL tools and apps available, schools have the power to deepen connections, bolster resilience, and nurture positive school climates. Whether you are a teacher, administrator, or parent, integrating these resources can transform students’ lives both now and for years to come. Start exploring these top 10 SEL tools and apps today and watch your students flourish!
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