Top Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools: Boosting Social-emotional Learning
With the increasing focus on social-emotional learning (SEL) in educational settings, schools are seeking innovative ways to empower students with the skills they need for interpersonal success, self-awareness, and responsible decision-making. Leveraging digital tools and apps for SEL has become an effective strategy for educators looking to foster positive school climates and holistic student development.In this guide, we’ll uncover the top tools and apps supporting SEL in schools, discuss thier benefits, provide best practices for integration, and share real-world examples of successful SEL programs.
Why Social-Emotional Learning Matters in today’s Schools
Social-emotional learning is more then a buzzword—it’s the foundation of meaningful education. SEL helps students build healthy relationships, manage emotions, set positive goals, and show empathy for others. Research shows that embedding SEL in schools leads to:
- Improved Academic Performance: Students with strong SEL skills tend to perform better in core subjects.
- Stronger Relationships: SEL empowers students to communicate and collaborate effectively.
- Enhanced Mental Health: Early intervention and support can considerably reduce anxiety and behavioral problems.
- Safe and Inclusive Classrooms: SEL tools promote equity,inclusion,and positive school climates.
Top Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools
The digital landscape is rich with SEL apps and platforms tailored to the needs of modern classrooms, virtual learning environments, and hybrid instruction. Hear’s our curated list of leading solutions:
1. Second Step
Second Step® is a renowned K–8 SEL program combining evidence-based curriculum with digital resources. The interactive platform covers emotional management,problem-solving,and bullying prevention with videos,activities,and facilitator guides.
- Extensive lessons for all elementary and middle grades
- Digital teaching aids and home links
- Built-in formative assessments
2.ClassDojo
ClassDojo is a popular classroom dialog app that builds a positive culture. With real-time behavior tracking, student portfolios, and easy parent updates, it’s a favorite for reinforcing SEL skills like teamwork, perseverance, and obligation.
- Customizable SEL feedback points
- Engaging student journaling and reflection tools
- Family connection features
3. EVERFI’s Social & Emotional Learning Suite
EVERFI offers digital SEL courses for elementary, middle, and high school students, covering topics such as empathy, compassion, digital wellness, and emotional regulation.
- Interactive, self-paced online modules
- Measurement and reporting for districts
- Aligned to CASEL’s SEL competencies
4. Mood Meter by Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence
The Mood Meter app empowers students to recognize and label their feelings, which is essential for emotional self-awareness and regulation. Educators use it during check-ins or SEL circles.
- Simple, kid-amiable mood tracking tool
- Customizable emotion vocabulary
- Suggestions for self-care strategies
5. Peekapak
Peekapak blends interactive stories with SEL activities, both online and offline. Its narrative approach helps students solve problems, build relationships, and practice empathy in context.
- Story-driven learning modules for Pre-K–5
- Family engagement resources
- Teacher dashboards for progress tracking
6. Calm App for Schools
Calm supports mindfulness and stress reduction with guided meditations, breathing exercises, and sleep stories—an invaluable toolkit for promoting emotional health in classrooms.
- Guided mindfulness breaks for all ages
- Free Calm Schools initiative for educators
- Simple integration into daily routines
7. Panorama for Social-emotional learning
Panorama Education specializes in SEL assessment and actionable data, providing educators with surveys to measure student competencies, analyze trends, and personalize supports.
- Customizable SEL and climate surveys
- Dashboards for tracking school-wide progress
- Evidence-based intervention recommendations
How to Integrate SEL Tools and Apps Effectively
- Start with staff training: Support teachers with PD on SEL frameworks and app features.
- Create a schoolwide SEL vision: Align technology use with shared goals for emotional health and student well-being.
- Embed SEL in daily routines: Schedule regular mood check-ins, mindfulness minutes, or storytelling sessions using digital tools.
- Engage families: Leverage family updates and at-home resources to build consistent SEL language between school and home.
- Use data for growth: Track student progress, celebrate milestones, and adjust interventions using app analytics.
- Build a safe digital habitat: Teach digital citizenship alongside SEL to help students navigate online social dynamics.
Case Studies: SEL Tools in Action
-
Case 1: Nova Elementary school’s morning Mood Check-Ins
By using the Mood Meter app each morning, Nova elementary saw a 20% decrease in reported behavior incidents. Teachers also reported stronger relationships as students learned to express their emotions constructively.
-
Case 2: District-Wide SEL Growth with Panorama
A midwestern school district implemented Panorama’s SEL surveys and dashboards, allowing targeted support for struggling students. Graduation rates rose by 5% over two years, and student engagement improved across all grades.
-
Case 3: Virtual Classrooms & mindfulness
During the shift to remote learning, Lincoln Middle School used Calm app’s mindfulness breaks to help students focus and reduce stress. Both educators and parents noted better emotional resilience, especially during testing weeks.
First-Hand Viewpoint: A Teacher’s Experience with SEL Apps
“Introducing ClassDojo into my classroom has been transformative. Students eagerly reflect on their actions, recognize their feelings, and celebrate small victories. The app’s simplicity and its ability to connect families increased our community’s sense of belonging and support. SEL isn’t just another subject—it’s the heart of our success.”
— Mrs. Emma Williams, 5th Grade Teacher
Conclusion: Empowering Students Through SEL Technology
As we prepare students for the challenges of today and tomorrow, social-emotional learning remains the cornerstone of lifelong success and fulfillment. The best SEL tools and apps empower educators, engage families, and equip students with critical emotional and social skills. Whether your school is just beginning its SEL journey or seeking to enhance existing efforts, integrating these digital resources can make a profound, lasting impact.Explore, experiment, and watch your school community thrive with a balanced, whole-child approach.