Top Tools and Apps Supporting SEL in Schools: Enhancing Social Emotional Learning in the Classroom
In today’s rapidly changing educational landscape, supporting Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in schools has become more essential than ever. SEL empowers students to understand and manage emotions, set positive goals, build strong relationships, and make responsible decisions. With the rise of digital tools, educators now have access to powerful SEL apps and platforms that can seamlessly integrate social emotional learning into the classroom. This article explores the top tools and apps designed for enhancing SEL, shares practical benefits and tips, and highlights evidence-based case studies to inspire every educator.
What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?
Social Emotional learning (SEL) refers to the process by which children and adults acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to:
- Understand and manage emotions
- Set and achieve positive goals
- Feel and show empathy for others
- establish and maintain positive relationships
- Make responsible decisions
Integrating SEL into the classroom has been linked to improved academic performance, better mental health, and reduced behavioral issues. As technology plays an increasingly central role, leveraging innovative tools and apps can amplify SEL’s impact.
Top SEL Tools and Apps for the Classroom
There are numerous SEL tools available, each offering unique features to promote emotional wellness and social skills.Here’s a curated list of the most impactful SEL apps and digital tools for your school:
1. Second Step®
Second Step is a comprehensive SEL program designed for PreK through Grade 8.Its digital curriculum covers self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. The platform provides interactive lessons, teacher guides, and engaging activities to help students develop essential life skills.
- Grade-based modules
- Parental engagement resources
- professional development for educators
2.ClassDojo
Widely used across schools, ClassDojo creates a positive classroom culture with tools for reinforcing social skills and emotional intelligence. Teachers can use it to give real-time feedback, promote collaboration, and send students and parents messages about SEL progress.
- Growth mindset and mindfulness content
- Digital portfolios for student reflection
- Active home-to-school connections
3. Mood Meter App
Based on the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence’s “RULER” program, the Mood Meter app teaches students to identify, label, and regulate their emotions. This tool offers a simple color-coded system to help students build self-awareness and improve their emotional vocabulary.
- Track moods over time
- Suggestions for strategies to shift emotions
- Integration into daily check-ins
4. EVERFI: The Compassion Project
EVERFI’s Compassion Project offers free,gamified SEL lessons focusing on empathy,compassion,and kindness for elementary students. The interactive lessons are story-driven and align with CASEL’s core competencies, making SEL fun and relatable.
- Gamified,student-centered modules
- Teacher dashboard to monitor progress
- Printable activities for offline use
5. Peekapak
Peekapak blends SEL stories, lessons, and activities with academic content. Designed for PreK-8, it features engaging narratives and social stories, offering both online and printable resources for teachers.
- Student-led character stories
- In-class and at-home activities
- Data analytics to track SEL growth
6. Mind Yeti
Mind Yeti provides guided mindfulness sessions to help students calm their minds, focus, and process emotions. These audio sessions are perfect for group activities, transitions, or as part of daily routines.
- Short, age-appropriate guided meditations
- supports focus and classroom readiness
- Easy integration into any schedule
7. Common Sense Education: Digital Citizenship & SEL
Common Sense Education offers a robust digital citizenship curriculum, teaching students not only about online safety but also self-regulation, empathy, and building healthy digital relationships.
- Free lesson plans and videos
- Aligned with ISTE and CASEL standards
- family engagement resources
Benefits of Using SEL Apps in Schools
- Increased Engagement: Interactive content and gamified lessons capture students’ attention and make SEL relevant.
- Personalization: Many apps provide individualized feedback, adapting to each student’s emotions and needs.
- Consistent Practice: Digital check-ins and daily activities help reinforce lessons and foster lasting habits.
- Parental Involvement: Apps like classdojo allow parents to track their child’s SEL progress and participate in their growth.
- Data & analytics: Teachers can monitor trends, spot issues early, and tailor SEL interventions to specific groups.
Practical Tips for Integrating SEL Tools in the Classroom
- Start with Daily Check-ins: Use SEL apps for morning or afternoon emotional check-ins to set the tone for the day.
- Blend with Curriculum: Embed SEL activities within existing subjects,turning science or reading lessons into opportunities for emotional exploration.
- Model Emotional Literacy: Teachers should use tools themselves, demonstrating vulnerability and emotional regulation.
- Monitor and Reflect: Regularly review app data and student feedback to refine SEL programming for maximum impact.
- Involve Families: Share summaries, send home activities, and use messaging features to keep parents engaged in SEL at home.
Case Study: SEL Tools in Action
“In our elementary school, implementing ClassDojo and Mind Yeti transformed the classroom culture. After just a few weeks, teachers noticed increased empathy among students, fewer conflicts, and higher classroom participation. Parents, too, reported more conversations at home about managing emotions and understanding others. The combination of real-time feedback and mindfulness sessions created a positive, inclusive learning habitat we hadn’t seen before.”
— Mrs. Laura Chen, 4th grade Teacher
this firsthand account is echoed in schools nationwide. Research from the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) demonstrates that students who participate in SEL programs show improved classroom behavior, increased ability to manage stress and depression, and better attitudes about themselves, others, and school.
Conclusion: Empowering Students Through SEL Apps
Choosing the right SEL tools and apps can dramatically enhance social emotional learning in the classroom,equipping students with the skills they need for academic and personal success. From mood trackers to gamified empathy lessons, today’s digital resources offer educators an effective, engaging way to transform SEL from theory to daily practice. Integrate these top platforms to foster self-awareness, empathy, and resilient learners who are ready to thrive in and beyond the school environment.
Remember, every classroom is unique. Experiment with different SEL apps, gather feedback, and tailor your approach. The right combination will bring out the best in your students—and in you as an educator!