Top Tools and Apps for Supporting Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) in Schools
In today’s ever-changing educational landscape, fostering social-emotional learning (SEL) in schools is a top priority. SEL equips students with the skills they need to understand and manage emotions, establish positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. With digital innovation at the forefront, schools now have access to a wide array of SEL tools and apps that support educators, students, and families. In this guide, we’ll explore the best SEL resources, practical implementation tips, and success stories—empowering you to create a holistic learning habitat powered by social-emotional progress.
What Is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)?
Social-emotional learning is a developmental framework that helps students acquire skills in five key areas:
- Self-awareness
- Self-management
- Social awareness
- Relationship skills
- Responsible decision-making
These skills are essential for personal well-being, academic achievement, and lifelong success.SEL programs and apps are designed to nurture these competencies through interactive lessons, assessments, and daily practices.
Why Is SEL Important in Schools?
- improves students’ emotional well-being and mental health
- Reduces behavior problems and bullying
- Enhances academic performance and engagement
- Creates a positive school climate and culture
- Prepares students for life beyond the classroom
With mounting pressure to support students’ holistic development, schools are increasingly integrating SEL tools and apps into their curriculums.
The Best Tools and Apps for Supporting SEL in schools
Digital platforms make SEL accessible, measurable, and engaging. Let’s dive into some of the top-rated SEL tools and apps trusted by educators in K-12 settings.
1. ClassDojo
ClassDojo is a community-driven app that connects teachers, students, and parents. its SEL features include:
- Digital portfolios to track student progress
- Positive behavior reinforcement through customizable feedback points
- SEL messaging and classroom stories that promote emotional growth
ClassDojo’s Mindfulness and Growth Mindset toolkits have been praised for their immediate impact on student attitude and motivation.
2.Second Step
As a leading SEL curriculum provider, Second Step offers age-appropriate digital lessons focused on:
- Empathy building
- Conflict resolution
- Setting and achieving goals
Teachers love Second Step’s ready-to-use videos and discussion guides, which facilitate classroom conversations on social-emotional topics.
3.Peekapak
Peekapak blends literacy and gamified SEL in an engaging platform for elementary students.features include:
- Interactive storytelling
- Character-driven SEL quests
- Teacher analytics for monitoring SEL skill progression
Peekapak’s collaborative and fun approach makes SEL instruction memorable and meaningful.
4. Emotional ABCs
Emotional ABCs is an award-winning SEL program targeting ages 4–11. Highlights of the app:
- Video lessons and animated guides
- Role-playing games and emotion recognition activities
- Easy reporting tools for teachers & parents
It’s a hit for supporting early intervention and emotional literacy in young learners.
5. Sanford Harmony
Sanford Harmony provides free, evidence-based SEL strategies through digital lesson plans and activities. Key features:
- Speedy Connection Cards for daily SEL practice
- Harmony Game Room for interactive play
- Family engagement tools
educators can easily integrate Sanford Harmony into any classroom routine.
6. SEL Check
SEL Check offers a simple way to monitor students’ social-emotional health. The app enables:
- Daily mood check-ins
- Anonymous feedback surveys
- Data-rich reports for school counselors
It’s ideal for early detection and response to emerging SEL challenges.
7. Breathe, think, Do with Sesame
Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame is perfect for preschool to early elementary. Kids learn core SEL skills through:
- Interactive problem-solving games
- Mindfulness and calming practices
- Neat visual stories featuring sesame Street characters
This app is both entertaining and educational—parents appreciate its seamless home-to-school transition.
8. Mood Meter App
The Mood Meter App, created by the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, helps students and adults:
- Identify and label emotions
- Explore strategies to shift feelings
- Track mood over time for reflection and growth
It’s an easy, research-backed resource for strengthening emotional vocabulary and self-management.
benefits of Using SEL Tools and Apps in Schools
Integrating SEL technology into classrooms offers numerous advantages:
- Personalization: Apps adapt to each student’s learning pace and emotional needs.
- Engagement: Gamified lessons and multimedia content heighten student interest.
- data Tracking: Digital platforms allow for ongoing progress monitoring and intervention.
- Accessibility: SEL can be practiced both in school and at home, facilitating consistency.
- Scalability: Tools can be rolled out across grades or entire districts with minimal effort.
SEL technology also helps teachers manage diverse classrooms and supports positive school culture.
Practical Tips for Implementing SEL Apps in your School
- Start Small: pilot one or two SEL tools with a single class or grade level before scaling up.
- Involve Stakeholders: Engage parents, teachers, and counselors during selection and implementation.
- Integrate with Curriculum: Align SEL activities with existing academic goals and schedules.
- Monitor and Collect Data: use app analytics and surveys to measure impact and adjust strategies.
- Combine Digital and Real-World Practice: Pair app-based lessons with group discussions, journaling, or role-play.
- Promote Student Voice: Let students provide feedback on what works best for their social-emotional growth.
Remember, SEL tools work best when they complement—not replace—human connection and instruction.
Case Study: SEL Success in Action
lincoln Elementary School, a Title I school in Illinois, piloted ClassDojo and second Step to address rising challenges in student engagement and behavior. Over one semester:
- Classroom disruptions decreased by 30%
- Teachers reported improved empathy among students,especially through Second Step’s conflict resolution activities
- Parents became more involved in SEL through ClassDojo’s home communication features
- Student surveys showed an increased sense of belonging and emotional safety
Thanks to a targeted SEL toolkit,Lincoln Elementary fostered resilience,cooperation,and positive school climate.
First-Hand Experience: A Teacher’s Perspective
“I was hesitant to introduce another digital tool, but Peekapak’s illustrated stories gave my second graders a language for emotions right away. They loved earning points for teamwork and discussing how characters solved problems in the stories. The app’s analytics also helped me tailor classroom activities to specific SEL needs. I truly saw a difference in my students’ self-awareness and ability to handle peer conflicts.”
– Ms. Randall, Second Grade Teacher
Frequently Asked Questions About SEL Tools and Apps
A: Most top SEL apps comply with child privacy laws (COPPA, FERPA) and do not require sensitive data input, but always review privacy policies before use.
Q: How much do SEL programs cost?
A: While many SEL apps offer free versions or grants for schools, some advanced features may require subscriptions. Compare options based on budget and needs.
Q: Can SEL tools support remote or hybrid learning?
A: Yes! Most SEL apps include cloud-based features or offline activities for flexible implementation in physical and virtual classrooms.
Conclusion: Empowering Students, Teachers, and Schools with SEL Technology
SEL isn’t a fad—it’s essential for shaping emotionally intelligent, confident learners. By choosing the right SEL tools and apps for your school, you’ll light the path for meaningful connections, academic success, and well-being. Whether you’re piloting a classroom solution or driving district-wide change,these resources offer practical,measurable,and engaging ways to nurture social-emotional learning in today’s schools.
Ready to start your SEL journey? Explore the tools above, involve your community, and watch your students thrive—inside and outside the classroom.
For more tips on technology in education and social-emotional learning, subscribe to our newsletter or get in touch with our SEL specialist team today!