Top 10 Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools for Effective Social-Emotional Learning
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is essential in today’s education landscape,helping students cultivate skills like self-awareness,empathy,and responsible decision-making. with the surge in educational technology, a wide array of SEL tools and apps are transforming the way students and educators engage with social-emotional skills.In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 SEL tools and apps for schools, delve into their benefits, and provide practical tips for effective integration.
What is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)?
SEL refers to the process through which children and adults acquire and effectively apply knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, show empathy, build positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.
Why SEL is Important in Schools
- Improved academic performance: Students with strong SEL skills perform better academically.
- Better classroom environment: Enhanced relationship skills foster a positive and collaborative atmosphere.
- Long-lasting life skills: SEL prepares students for work and life beyond school.
- Reduced behavioral problems: SEL tools help reduce bullying, aggression, and absenteeism.
Top 10 Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools
The following SEL tools and apps are among the most effective for integrating social-emotional learning in schools, based on educator feedback and research-backed outcomes.
1. Second Step
Second Step is a leading SEL program providing digital lessons for students at all grade levels. Its multimedia lessons and collaborative activities are designed to strengthen skills like emotion management, empathy, and problem-solving.
- Interactive, age-appropriate curriculum
- Teacher-friendly resources and family engagement tools
- Integrates seamlessly with classroom learning
2. ClassDojo
Widely known for classroom management, ClassDojo also supports SEL with its digital points system and engaging activities aimed at building positive behaviors and emotional intelligence.
- encourages growth mindset and kindness
- Parent-teacher-student interaction features
- Videos and resources on mindfulness and empathy
3. Pearson Realize™ SEL
Pearson’s digital platform offers evidence-based SEL assessments and resources tailored for educators, making it easy to track student progress and provide targeted support.
- Integrated SEL assessment tools
- Personalized learning recommendations
- Rich suite of resources for diverse classrooms
4. Emotional ABCs
Emotional abcs equips students aged 4–11 with foundational emotional skills through interactive lessons and engaging activities,supporting self-regulation and healthy peer relationships.
- Thorough and structured SEL curriculum
- Games and exercises for emotion recognition and coping strategies
- Easy to implement for teachers and families
5. Panorama Education
Panorama offers a robust platform for SEL assessment, data analysis, and actionable insights, empowering schools to make data-driven decisions for social-emotional learning.
- Student and family SEL surveys
- Real-time data dashboards
- Professional learning modules for teachers
6. Mindful Schools
Mindful Schools offers digital mindfulness curricula aimed at K-12 students, promoting attention, stress management, and emotional resilience. Courses are research-based and easy to implement.
- Videos and guided mindfulness practices
- Professional development for educators
- Customizable content for all age groups
7. QuaverSEL
QuaverSEL provides an interactive platform with music-based social-emotional learning activities. Students engage through songs, stories, and games to learn empathy, perseverance, and cooperation.
- Multisensory lessons using art and music
- Alignment with SEL standards
- Spanish-language support for diverse classrooms
8. i-ready SEL
i-Ready combines academic and SEL instruction,allowing teachers to integrate social-emotional skill-building with academic lessons for comprehensive student growth.
- Personalized lessons and assessments
- engaging, actionable teacher dashboards
- Printable activities and home support
9. EVERFI: Social Emotional Learning Suite
EVERFI offers interactive SEL courses for K-12, addressing topics such as mental wellness, compassion, and digital citizenship through engaging digital content.
- Real-world SEL scenarios and case studies
- Flexible, standards-aligned SEL modules
- Custom reporting for educators and administrators
10. STOPit Solutions
STOPit Solutions blends safety, anti-bullying, and SEL by providing anonymous reporting systems and resources for students, families, and educators.
- anonymous reporting tools for student safety
- Resources for bullying prevention and mental health
- Analytics for proactive intervention
Key Benefits of Using SEL Tools and Apps in Schools
- Accessibility: Digital tools make SEL accessible anytime, anywhere, catering to different learning styles.
- Engagement: Interactive content increases student participation and retention of SEL skills.
- progress Tracking: Data dashboards allow educators to monitor growth and tailor instruction.
- Consistent Practice: Apps foster daily practice, building SEL into the daily school routine.
- parental Involvement: Many platforms include resources for families to extend SEL at home.
Practical Tips for Integrating SEL Tools in the Classroom
- Start with Teacher Training: Ensure staff are familiar with chosen SEL tools and their benefits.
- Embed SEL into Daily Schedule: Dedicate regular time for SEL activities or lessons.
- Encourage Student Voice: Empower students to give feedback on SEL activities and suggest improvements.
- Connect School and Home: Leverage apps to keep parents informed and involved in SEL development.
- track Progress and Adapt: Use built-in analytics to assess which strategies are most effective.
Real-World Success: A Case Study
Harmony Elementary, a Title I school, integrated Second Step’s digital SEL curriculum across all classrooms. Within one academic year, teachers reported:
- 25% decrease in disciplinary referrals
- Improved student cooperation and empathy
- Increased family participation in SEL evenings
Principal Maria Gomez shared, “Our students are noticeably more resilient and kind to one another. Using digital SEL programs makes it easy to keep lessons consistent and track progress over time.”
Conclusion
Social-emotional learning is no longer an optional addition—it’s an essential component of effective education. The top 10 SEL tools and apps highlighted above offer innovative, research-backed ways to cultivate understanding, empathy, and lifelong resilience among students. By thoughtfully integrating these digital resources into your school’s culture and curriculum, you empower students not just to thrive academically, but to lead lives marked by compassion, collaboration, and confidence.
Ready to boost social-emotional learning in your school? Start exploring these tools today, and watch as your students blossom both inside and outside the classroom!