Top Tools & Apps for Supporting SEL in Schools: Boost Social-Emotional Learning Today
social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is at the heart of a positive school culture. As educators and parents recognize the lifelong benefits of SEL, the demand for effective SEL tools and apps for schools is rapidly growing. Embracing the right solutions can transform classrooms, foster emotional intelligence, and improve academic achievement. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top SEL tools and apps, discuss their benefits, and offer practical tips for implementation.
What is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)?
SEL is an educational approach that empowers students to develop essential life skills like self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision-making, relationship skills, and social awareness. These competencies not only boost academic performance but also nurture resilience, empathy, and a positive school environment.
Why Schools Need SEL Tools & Apps
- Enhanced Engagement: Interactive platforms and gamified experiences motivate students to participate in SEL activities willingly.
- Personalization: Digital SEL tools can adapt to each student’s needs,offering tailored exercises and resources.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Teachers and counselors can track progress, identify at-risk students, and intervene early.
- time Efficiency: Ready-made lessons and automated assessments save valuable classroom time.
- Anytime, Anywhere Access: Apps enable students to practice SEL skills both in and outside the classroom.
Top SEL Tools & Apps for Schools
Below are some of the leading SEL tools and apps consistently recommended by educators worldwide. whether you’re searching for comprehensive platforms or targeted solutions, these picks offer robust support for K-12 students.
1. Second Step
- Overview: One of the most widely adopted SEL programs, Second Step provides a full curriculum for grades PreK–8, focusing on skills like emotion management, empathy, and problem-solving.
- Features:
- Ready-to-teach lessons and interactive activities
- Staff training and family resources
- Assessment tools and progress tracking
- Best For: Schools seeking an evidence-based, all-in-one SEL program.
2. ClassDojo
- Overview: ClassDojo is a popular classroom management app that also nurtures SEL by connecting teachers, students, and families.
- Features:
- Digital portfolios for students
- In-app feedback for positive behavior
- SEL content library (‘Big Ideas’) with engaging videos and activities
- Best For: Building community and reinforcing SEL through regular communication.
3. Move This World
- Overview: Move This world offers multimedia SEL resources for PreK–12 students, utilizing short, creative videos to start and end each day.
- Features:
- Daily SEL rituals and routines
- Emotion vocabulary development
- teacher and parent resources
- Best For: Establishing consistent SEL routines in the classroom.
4. Character Lab
- Overview: Character Lab provides science-based resources to cultivate character strengths such as gratitude, curiosity, and grit.
- Features:
- Playbooks and activities for teachers
- Research-backed SEL practices
- Professional learning tools
- Best For: Schools interested in evidence-driven SEL strategies.
5. Talking Points
- Overview: TalkingPoints bridges communication gaps between educators and diverse family communities through two-way multilingual messaging.
- Features:
- AI-powered translations in over 100 languages
- Resource sharing and communication logs
- Best For: Strengthening school-home partnerships to enhance SEL outcomes.
6. Calm Schools
- Overview: The Calm app’s education initiative brings mindfulness and meditation to classrooms, reducing stress and promoting focus.
- Features:
- Mindfulness lessons and breathing exercises
- Guided meditations for students and teachers
- Best For: Integrating mental wellness routines into the school day.
7. Peekapak
- Overview: Peekapak combines interactive online learning with ELA-based SEL stories for K–5 students.
- Features:
- Social-emotional stories and lesson plans
- student journals and progress reports
- Family engagement options
- Best For: Blending literacy and SEL core competencies in elementary grades.
Benefits of Implementing SEL Tools and Apps in Schools
- Improved student behavior and academic engagement
- Reduction in bullying and disciplinary incidents
- Stronger teacher-student and peer relationships
- Enhanced classroom climate and sense of belonging
- Deeper parent involvement in student success
- Better management of stress, anxiety, and emotions
Practical Tips to Maximize SEL tools in Your School
- Start Small: Pilot one or two SEL apps before scaling school-wide. Collect feedback and adapt.
- Integrate into Curriculum: Embed SEL activities into daily lessons, not as stand-alone events.
- Engage Families: Use apps with parent communication features to reinforce social-emotional skills at home.
- Train Your Staff: Ensure all educators are comfortable using SEL platforms for consistent implementation.
- Monitor Progress: Utilize built-in analytics to track student growth and refine your SEL approach.
- Encourage Student Voice: involve students in choosing and designing SEL activities for broader impact.
Case Study: SEL App Success in a Real School
Willow Elementary’s Journey with ClassDojo & Calm
Willow Elementary School, a diverse K-5 school in California, faced challenges with student stress and peer conflict. By adopting ClassDojo for behavior tracking and parent engagement, combined with daily mindfulness moments from Calm Schools, they saw notable improvements:
- 30% drop in minor behavior incidents within six months
- decrease in reported student anxiety levels (measured via pre-and post-surveys)
- Increased family participation in school events by 40%
“These apps gave us a structure for SEL that’s easy to use, inclusive, and impactful for our community.” – Mrs. L. Martin, Principal
First-Hand Experience: A Teacher’s Perspective
ms. Rivera, 4th Grade teacher:
“Integrating SEL apps like Peekapak and ClassDojo into my classroom has been a game-changer. My students are more aware of their emotions, practice kindness, and even help each other regulate when upset. The digital resources make it easy to stay consistent—and the storytelling format keeps them genuinely engaged.”
Conclusion: Elevate Your School’s SEL Journey Today!
Equipping your school with the best SEL tools and apps is a proven way to nurture well-rounded, empathetic, and successful students. With platforms like Second Step, ClassDojo, Calm Schools, and more, educators can transform the classroom climate and build crucial life skills. Remember: successful SEL requires commitment, collaboration, and the right digital support. Start your SEL journey today to foster students’ minds and hearts for years to come!
Ready to Explore SEL Tools?
- Identify the specific SEL needs of your school community
- Review and pilot different SEL apps
- Empower teachers and families to participate in SEL activities
For more tips on successful social-emotional learning in schools, bookmark our blog and explore our latest guides and resources!