Top Tools and Apps supporting SEL in schools: Best Solutions for Social-Emotional Learning
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) has become an indispensable part of holistic education, especially in today’s dynamically changing world. Equip students with essential life skills such as resilience,self-awareness,empathy,and emotional regulation by integrating effective SEL tools and apps into the classroom. This guide spotlights the best SEL solutions for schools, alongside practical tips, benefits, and real-world success stories, empowering educators to foster a thriving, supportive learning environment.
What is Social-emotional Learning (SEL) and Why is it Essential?
SEL refers to the process of acquiring and applying the knowledge, attitudes, and skills needed to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve goals, feel and show empathy, establish healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. In schools, SEL supports:
- Improved academic outcomes
- Enhanced emotional intelligence
- Reduction in behavioral issues
- Healthier school climates
With the rise in technology adoption, modern educators rely on digital SEL solutions to make learning accessible, engaging, and measurable for all students.
Benefits of Implementing SEL Tools and Apps in Schools
- Personalized learning experiences: Apps adapt to each student’s needs, fostering individual growth.
- Data-driven insights: Teachers can monitor emotional well-being and intervene early.
- Increased engagement: interactive frameworks and gamified activities keep students motivated.
- Anytime, anywhere access: Students and educators can practice SEL skills in and out of the classroom.
Let’s delve into the top rated SEL apps and platforms making a difference in schools worldwide.
Top SEL Tools and Apps for Schools in 2024
1. Second Step
Second Step is a leader in evidence-based SEL curricula for pre-K through grade 8. The programme seamlessly integrates digital lessons,interactive activities,and assessments. Teachers get access to robust training, while students engage in learning modules on empathy, emotion management, problem-solving, and goal setting.
- Grade-specific, age-appropriate content
- Fully aligned with CASEL framework
- Accessible online and offline
2. ClassDojo
ClassDojo is a popular classroom management app with a strong SEL focus. It allows teachers to create a positive culture by recognizing students for skills like teamwork, perseverance, and empathy. the platform includes digital portfolios,parent communication tools,and growth mindset video series.
- Real-time behavior tracking
- Customizable SEL skill sets
- Easy parent-teacher-student communication
3. EVERFI – The Compassion Project
The Compassion Project by EVERFI features digital lessons teaching students about empathy, compassion, and cooperation. short, interactive modules make SEL tangible, while pre- and post-assessments track progress.
- Content for elementary and middle schools
- 100% free for schools
- Teacher guides and implementation resources
4. Mind Yeti
Mind Yeti provides mindfulness and meditation sessions designed for children. Short audio activities help students calm their minds, develop emotional awareness, and improve focus—essential components of SEL.
- Evidence-based mindfulness practices
- 10-minute or shorter sessions
- supports teachers in facilitating class-wide calm
5. Peekapak
Peekapak blends narrative-based learning with interactive games, stories, and literacy-rich content. Teachers can track SEL progress, and students follow characters on adventures that reinforce skills like self-regulation and cooperation.
- Customizable stories for kids K-5
- Parental involvement tools
- Integrated SEL assessments
6.Mood Meter
Mood Meter is a mobile app created by the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. It encourages students (and adults) to check in with their feelings and build emotional vocabulary. Teachers can use it as a daily check-in or discussion starter.
- Easy, colorful interface for identifying emotions
- Strategies for shifting moods and building awareness
- Promotes conversations on mental health
Other Noteworthy SEL Tools for Classrooms
- Emotional ABCs: Interactive content for K-3, building foundational emotional skills.
- Nearpod SEL: Ready-to-use SEL lessons, live polls, and formative assessments for K-12.
- Base education: digital SEL and mental health curriculum for middle and high schoolers.
- TalkingPoints: Supports SEL by bridging communication gaps between families, teachers, and students from diverse backgrounds.
Practical Tips for Integrating SEL Apps in Schools
- Choose age-appropriate solutions: Consider the developmental stage of your students when selecting SEL programs.
- Engage families: Share app guides and resources with parents to reinforce SEL at home.
- Provide professional advancement: Train teachers to use and facilitate SEL tools effectively.
- Embed SEL in daily routines: Start classes with mood check-ins, mindfulness moments, or group discussions.
- Monitor and adapt: Leverage app data to adjust instruction and support students who need extra help.
Real-World Case Study: SEL Tools in Action
Lincoln Elementary,a mid-sized urban school,adopted a blend of ClassDojo and Mind Yeti to address increasing anxieties and behavioral disruptions. By implementing daily mindfulness sessions, regular check-ins, and celebrating SEL milestones, teachers noticed a measurable drop in office referrals and an uptick in student engagement. Surveys showed a 40% advancement in self-reported emotional regulation skills among students by the end of the academic year.
First-Hand Experiences from Educators
“Integrating Peekapak stories into our weekly curriculum helped my students relate SEL concepts to real-life scenarios. The digital platform kept them engaged and made tracking progress a breeze.”
– Ms. Alvarez, 2nd Grade Teacher
“Using the Mood Meter app as a daily check-in tool has opened up honest, vital dialogues about feelings in our classroom. Even the quietest students feel seen and heard.”
– Mr. Singh, Middle School Counselor
Frequently Asked Questions about SEL Tools in Schools
- Are SEL apps suitable for remote or hybrid learning?
Yes! Most leading SEL apps are accessible via web or mobile, making them adaptable for in-person, remote, or hybrid learning models. - How do schools assess the effectiveness of SEL tools?
Via built-in assessments, progress dashboards, academic tracking, and student/teacher/parent surveys. - Is parental buy-in necessary?
Absolutely.Involving families extends SEL beyond school boundaries and reinforces positive behavior at home.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right SEL Tools for Your School
Empowering students with robust social-emotional skills is key to academic growth and long-term well-being. Integrating the best SEL apps and tools for schools transforms classrooms into inclusive, supportive spaces where every learner thrives. Whether you’re just starting with SEL or seeking to expand your toolkit, the solutions highlighted here enable educators to embed SEL into daily teaching practices with measurable success.
Ready to transform your school community? Evaluate your needs, explore free trials, and encourage collaboration among staff and families. With the right SEL platform, every day is an opportunity for students to build confidence, compassion, and resilience—skills that will last a lifetime.
Looking for more SEL resources? Check out our guides on SEL curriculum comparison and teacher self-care tools.