Top Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools: Best Picks for 2024
Social-emotional learning (SEL) is no longer just a buzzword in education—it’s a must-have. As schools seek ways to nurture students’ emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills, more educators are leveraging technology to support SEL in their classrooms. In this guide, we’ll explore the best SEL tools and apps for schools in 2024, offering practical insights into their key features and implementation tips, so you can choose the right solutions for your learning community.
What is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)?
Social-emotional learning (SEL) is the process through wich children and adults develop essential skills for managing emotions, setting positive goals, showing empathy, maintaining healthy relationships, and making responsible decisions. SEL programs and activities are critical for building a supportive classroom culture and preparing students for lifelong success.
Benefits of Leveraging SEL Tools and Apps in Schools
- Boosted Engagement: Interactive apps make emotional learning more engaging and relatable for digital natives.
- Personalized Support: SEL tools can be tailored to match a student’s age, needs, and unique learning journey.
- Ongoing Assessment: Many apps offer data and reporting to track progress and inform targeted interventions.
- Time-Saving: Digital platforms automate lesson planning and deliver ready-made SEL activities for teachers.
- Family and Community Involvement: Many platforms include portals or resources to keep families involved in SEL growth.
Top SEL Tools and Apps in 2024: Our Best Picks
Hear’s a look at the leading SEL platforms, tools, and apps making waves in schools for 2024. Each tool offers unique features designed to meet diverse classroom needs—from elementary to high school and beyond.
1. ClassDojo
- Features: Behavior tracking,digital portfolios,classroom interaction,SEL activities,mindfulness resources
- Grade Levels: K-8
- Pros: Free version available; intuitive for teachers; strong home-to-school connections
- Why It’s a Top Pick: ClassDojo is renowned for its positive reinforcement system and its new focus on SEL curriculum modules. Teachers can assign SEL tasks, celebrate progress, and share updates directly with parents.
2. Second Step
- Features: Evidence-based SEL curriculum, digital lessons, family resources, assessment tools
- Grade Levels: PreK-Grade 8
- Pros: research-backed content; extensive; customizable SEL pathways
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Second Step’s digital platform delivers ready-to-use SEL lessons that focus on core competencies. Their new apps and online integrations for 2024 include more interactive elements and anti-bullying content.
3. Mood meter
- Features: Emotion tracking, mood reflection, SEL journaling prompts
- Grade Levels: middle school to adult
- Pros: Easy mood check-ins; based on Yale’s RULER approach; encourages emotional intelligence
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Mood Meter gives students a simple, visual way to check in on their emotions, build self-awareness, and expand their emotional vocabulary. It’s ideal for integrating daily check-ins into classroom routines.
4. Panorama education
- Features: SEL surveys, school climate dashboards, data analytics, intervention tracking
- Grade Levels: K-12
- Pros: Advanced data reporting; customizable surveys; supports multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS)
- Why It’s a Top Pick: For districts looking to measure and improve SEL outcomes systemwide, Panorama’s tools provide the analytics and resources to drive impactful change and target interventions.
5. CharacterStrong
- Features: SEL curriculum, classroom challenges, professional advancement, family engagement
- Grade Levels: K-12
- Pros: focus on kindness, character, and belonging; adaptable lesson plans
- Why It’s a Top Pick: CharacterStrong combines research-based SEL practices with engaging classroom activities. In 2024, it’s making waves with new digital journey maps for students and bite-sized professional learning for educators.
6. Calm Schools
- Features: Mindfulness meditations, breathing exercises, sleep stories, teacher toolkits
- Grade levels: K-12
- Pros: Supports stress management; accessible user interface; free resources for educators
- Why It’s a Top Pick: As mindfulness continues to trend in SEL, the Calm app stands out for helping students self-regulate during the school day with evidence-based resources and tracks for both kids and adults.
7. Flocabulary
- Features: Hip-hop videos, SEL song modules, vocabulary games, teacher guides
- Grade Levels: K-12
- Pros: Culturally responsive; highly engaging multimedia; aligns with CASEL framework
- why It’s a Top Pick: Flocabulary’s SEL music modules help students internalize core competencies such as empathy, responsible decision-making, and relationship skills—through the power of music and visual storytelling.
8. Peekapak
- Features: SEL stories, themed lessons, social games, family extension activities
- Grade Levels: PreK-Grade 5
- Pros: Blends literacy and SEL; supports classroom and at-home learning; data dashboards
- Why It’s a Top Pick: Peekapak weaves digital storytelling with character building, making it especially impactful for elementary educators looking for SEL tools to pair with reading units.
How to Choose the Right SEL App or Tool for Your School
Selecting the right SEL technology for schools depends on your specific context, needs, and student demographics. Here are a few practical tips to guide your decision:
- Assess Needs: Identify the exact SEL goals you want to address—self-awareness, self-management, relationship skills, etc.
- Consider Integration: Look for platforms that easily integrate with your existing LMS or classroom technology stack.
- Prioritize Accessibility: Make sure the solution offers support for diverse learners, including multilingual and adaptive options.
- Check Data Privacy: ensure the tool complies with FERPA,COPPA,and local guidelines for student data protection.
- Request Demos: Most providers offer trials—test apps with a small focus group before rolling out schoolwide.
- Gather Feedback: Involve educators, students, and families in the selection process to ensure buy-in and long-term use.
Case Study: SEL Success in Action
At Lincoln Elementary in Chicago, administrators rolled out Second Step digital lessons combined with daily Mood Meter check-ins across grades 3-6. Within a semester, teachers reported a 28% reduction in behavioral incidents and a marked enhancement in classroom climate. Using data analytics from Panorama Education, the SEL team identified targeted interventions, leading to higher attendance and improved teacher-student relationships.
First-Hand Experience: A Teacher’s Outlook
Ms. Rivera, a 5th-grade teacher in Austin, shares: “We started using ClassDojo and incorporated Calm Schools mindfulness sessions each morning. Not only did students become more outspoken about their feelings, but our parent community appreciated seeing real progress in self-regulation and empathy skills. With these tools, my own planning workload reduced, and SEL became part of our everyday routine.”
Tips for Effective SEL App Integration
- Start Small: Begin with one or two tools and expand as comfort grows in your community.
- Embed in Daily Routines: Use morning meetings, closing circles, or transition times as opportunities for quick SEL check-ins.
- Use Data to Guide Next Steps: Leverage progress reports and mood tracking for targeted group sessions or one-on-one support.
- Foster Collaboration: Share wins and insights among grade levels and with specialist teachers or counselors.
- Provide Ongoing Training: Regular PD on SEL tools ensures consistent, effective use and new creative ideas.
Conclusion: Empower Social-Emotional Learning with the Right Tools
Classrooms are evolving, and social-emotional learning technology is at the forefront of supporting the whole child. The best SEL tools for schools in 2024 blend research, engagement, and usability—making it easier than ever for educators to nurture empathy, resilience, and healthy relationships in every student. whether you’re looking for a comprehensive platform or a daily check-in app, the choices outlined above can help you create emotionally smart classrooms and a brighter future for all.
Ready to bring the power of SEL to your school? Explore demos, seek feedback, and begin your journey towards a more connected, supportive, and empowered learning surroundings today!