Top Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools: Boost Social Emotional Learning in the Classroom
Investing in Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is no longer just a classroom trend—it’s a vital part of cultivating well-rounded, happy, and motivated students. As educators nationwide embrace SEL, choosing the right educational technology can supercharge these efforts. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore top SEL tools and apps supporting SEL in schools, offer practical tips for integrating them into the classroom, and showcase real-world benefits. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or an edtech enthusiast, get ready to discover actionable insights to boost social emotional learning in the classroom.
Why Prioritize Social Emotional Learning in Schools?
Before exploring the best SEL tools and apps, let’s address why social emotional learning in the classroom matters:
- improved Academic Performance: Schools prioritizing SEL often see higher test scores and graduation rates.
- Positive School Climate: SEL fosters respectful, inclusive, and empathetic classrooms.
- Mental Health support: Students develop resilience, self-awareness, and coping strategies.
- 21st century Skills: SEL cultivates vital life skills, from collaboration to responsible decision-making.
Integrating SEL technology can amplify these outcomes, making SEL accessible, engaging, and effective for all students.
The Best Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools
With countless edtech solutions emerging,finding the right SEL apps for schools can be overwhelming.Here’s a curated list of the leading tools—chosen for their impact, accessibility, and teacher-friendly features:
1. Second Step
- Overview: Widely adopted K–8 SEL curriculum, available online and offline.
- Features: Interactive lessons,videos,real-life scenarios,teacher resources.
- Benefits: Easy for educators to integrate; evidence-based curriculum aligns with CASEL standards.
2. ClassDojo
- Overview: Popular classroom management platform with dedicated SEL content.
- Features: Digital portfolios, positive behavior tracking, SEL video modules, family engagement tools.
- Benefits: Boosts classroom culture, dialog, and emotional self-management.
3. Emotuit
- Overview: AI-powered platform analyzing student emotional states in real time.
- Features: Real-time SEL feedback, emotion tracking, teacher alerts, personalized interventions.
- Benefits: Helps teachers identify students needing support before behavior escalates.
4. Zones of Regulation App
- Overview: Digital extension of the acclaimed self-regulation framework.
- Features: Interactive games, self-check-in tools, visual supports.
- Benefits: Empowers students to recognize and manage their emotions independently.
5. Mind Yeti
- Overview: Mindfulness and calming app designed for elementary-aged students.
- Features: Guided audio sessions focusing on breathing, empathy, and stress reduction.
- Benefits: Supports class-wide mindfulness routines; useful for transitions and testing periods.
6. Panorama for Education
- Overview: Comprehensive platform for surveying student SEL needs and progress.
- Features: Research-based survey tools, data dashboards, actionable reports.
- Benefits: Informs targeted interventions and guides school-wide SEL strategy.
7. peekapak
- Overview: Story-based lessons and digital activities promoting SEL skills.
- Features: Narratives, interactive games, real-world challenges, home extension activities.
- Benefits: Reinforces SEL skills through engaging, literacy-focused content.
8. EverFi
- Overview: K-12 digital curriculum with strong SEL and mental wellness modules.
- Features: Interactive lessons on character development, empathy, and financial literacy.
- benefits: Prepares students for life beyond school with real-world SEL applications.
Benefits of Using SEL Tools and Apps in Schools
Integrating SEL technology in the classroom provides benefits that extend beyond emotional literacy:
- Personalized Learning Paths: Adaptive apps meet diverse student needs.
- Increased Engagement: Multimedia, gamified content resonates with digital-native students.
- Data-Driven Insight: progress tracking allows for timely interventions and targeted support.
- family Involvement: Many platforms include parent communication and resources.
- Equity and Access: Digital resources make SEL accessible,even in remote or hybrid classrooms.
Tips for Effectively Integrating SEL Technology in the Classroom
While choosing the right SEL tools for schools is important, it’s equally vital to implement them thoughtfully. Here are practical tips for educators and school leaders:
- Start Small: Pilot one app with a specific group or class, and gather feedback before schoolwide rollout.
- Align with Curriculum: Select SEL apps that reinforce your school’s core values or target specific CASEL competencies.
- Model SEL Skills: Use teacher dashboards to set goals, celebrate small wins, and model emotional intelligence.
- Facilitate Reflection: Dedicate time for students to discuss how SEL tools have helped them handle real-life situations.
- involve Families: Share app access codes and SEL language with caregivers, encouraging home discussion.
- Protect Privacy: Choose platforms that comply with student data privacy laws (FERPA, COPPA, GDPR, etc.).
Case Studies: SEL apps in Action
Across the country, schools that embrace top SEL tools see real change. Let’s look at two swift examples:
Case Study 1: ClassDojo for School Climate
A rural elementary school in Ohio adopted ClassDojo schoolwide. After one semester, teachers reported a 40% reduction in office referrals.students enjoyed tracking positive behaviors, while parents felt more connected thanks to instant updates and SEL-focused discussion prompts.
case Study 2: Second Step’s Lasting Impact
An urban district implemented Second Step resources from K-6, combining classroom lessons with take-home activities. Surveys indicated measurable improvements in student empathy, teamwork, and academic performance—especially among students from marginalized communities.
First-Hand Experience: Teacher’s Perspective
“I use the Mind Yeti app every morning with my 3rd graders. The guided sessions have reduced transitions time and noticeably decreased anxious behaviors during the first 10 minutes of class.” —Ms. Lopez, Elementary School Teacher
Teachers consistently report that integrating SEL apps in the classroom not only boosts emotional skills but also saves instructional time by reducing disruptions and building a sense of shared community.
Frequently Asked Questions: SEL Tools in Schools
- Are SEL tech tools appropriate for all ages? Yes, with age-appropriate options ranging from pre-K (Mind Yeti, ClassDojo) to high school (EverFi, Panorama).
- Do these tools work for remote/hybrid learning? Most top SEL apps are cloud-based and function both in-person and virtually, offering flexible deployment.
- How can administrators measure SEL progress? Platforms like Panorama and Emotuit provide detailed data dashboards and custom reporting to track student growth.
conclusion: Elevate SEL With the Right Technology
The right combination of SEL tools and apps can transform your school’s emotional climate, boost academic achievement, and equip students with the self-awareness, empathy, and resilience they need for life. Whether you’re just starting your SEL journey or aiming to elevate existing initiatives, these digital resources offer accessible and engaging ways to build a culture of kindness, respect, and emotional intelligence. Begin piloting one or more of these top solutions today and experience firsthand the profound impact of prioritizing social emotional learning in the classroom.
Ready to take the next step? explore more resources, join SEL communities, and empower your students with evidence-based SEL technology!