Top Tools & Apps Supporting SEL in Schools: Enhance Social-Emotional Learning in the Classroom
Social-emotional learning (SEL) has become a cornerstone of modern education, equipping students not only with academic skills but also emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and resilience. With digital technology’s growing influence in classrooms, innovative SEL tools and apps are making it easier than ever for educators to nurture these essential life skills. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top SEL tools and apps for schools in 2024, their key benefits, expert-approved strategies for implementation, and practical tips for boosting students’ social-emotional growth.
Why social-Emotional Learning Matters in Schools
Before delving into specific SEL apps and tools, it’s crucial to understand why SEL matters in today’s classrooms. Research shows that robust SEL programs contribute to:
- Improved academic outcomes
- Enhanced student engagement
- reduced behavioral issues
- Higher emotional intelligence and empathy
- Greater readiness for real-world challenges
Given these wide-ranging benefits, schools increasingly seek out technology-powered resources to implement social-emotional learning at scale.
Top SEL Tools & Apps for the Modern Classroom
Here’s a review of the most effective and widely adopted SEL apps and digital tools that can empower both educators and students.
1.Second Step
- Overview: Second Step is a research-based program offering structured lessons, digital activities, and professional progress for educators. Its digital platform covers topics such as empathy, emotion management, and problem-solving for grades PreK-8.
- Key Features: Ready-to-use lessons, multimedia resources, family engagement tools, data tracking.
- Why it Stands Out: Widely used in schools with proven impact; integrates SEL seamlessly into everyday classroom routines.
2. ClassDojo
- Overview: ClassDojo is a classroom management and communication platform that promotes positive behavior and SEL through digital avatars, instant feedback, and interactive stories.
- Key Features: Digital portfolios, feedback points for SEL skills, mindfulness resources, parent communication.
- Why It Stands Out: Free and accessible; fosters home-to-school connection; especially effective in elementary settings.
3. EVERFI: The Compassion Project
- Overview: This interactive digital course focuses on empathy, compassion, and social awareness for grades 2-4, using animated scenarios and reflection questions.
- Key Features: engaging curriculum, turnkey assessments, supports state SEL standards.
- why It Stands Out: Free for schools; evidence-based design; easy integration with core subjects.
4. Nearpod SEL
- Overview: Nearpod offers a range of SEL-specific lessons for elementary and secondary students. Teachers can deliver real-time, interactive activities to assess and build social-emotional skills.
- Key Features: live polls, quizzes, virtual field trips, teacher customization.
- Why It Stands Out: Seamlessly integrates with virtual and hybrid learning; tracks student progress.
5. MoodMeter by Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence
- Overview: MoodMeter is an emotional check-in app based on the renowned RULER framework. Students (and teachers) track and label their emotions, gaining greater self-awareness and regulation.
- Key Features: Color-coded emotion chart, journal prompts, emotion data tracking, coping strategies.
- Why It Stands Out: Research-driven; builds emotional vocabulary; encourages self-reflection.
6. Peekapak
- Overview: Peekapak’s interactive literacy-based platform combines storytelling with social-emotional learning. Teachers can assign digital missions and monitor progress in real time.
- Key Features: Digital stories, interactive discussions, teacher dashboard, home activities.
- Why It Stands Out: Engages all learners; aligns with CASEL competencies; connects classroom and home SEL efforts.
7. Breathe, Think, Do With Sesame
- Overview: Developed by Sesame Workshop, this free app uses engaging characters and activities to help young children develop problem-solving and self-regulation.
- Key Features: Interactive games, stress-relief activities, parent guidance.
- Why It Stands Out: Ideal for PreK-K; fun, age-appropriate content; available in multiple languages.
Benefits of Integrating SEL Tools & Apps in the Classroom
Incorporating digital SEL resources offers a variety of advantages for both teachers and students:
- Personalized Learning: Apps provide differentiated experiences tailored to individual student needs.
- Real-Time Feedback: Instant insights help teachers support students more effectively.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Tracking tools help educators measure growth in social-emotional competencies.
- Engagement: Interactive activities and gamified content make learning SEL skills fun and memorable.
- consistency: Digital platforms promote consistent SEL messaging, both at school and at home.
Practical Tips for Using SEL Apps Effectively
While SEL technology can be transformative, maximizing its impact requires intentional planning. Here’s how to integrate SEL apps effectively in your school or classroom:
- Align with School-wide SEL Goals: ensure digital resources support your broader SEL framework and objectives.
- Combine Technology with human Connection: Use apps to supplement, not replace, face-to-face SEL activities.
- Build Routines: Dedicate a consistent time (e.g., morning meeting or advisory) for SEL check-ins or activities.
- Engage Families: Share app-based activities and insights with parents to reinforce learning at home.
- Monitor & Reflect: Use analytics to identify trends and adapt your approach based on student progress.
- Empower Student Voice: Choose platforms that encourage student reflection and feedback.
Case Study: How One School District transformed SEL with Digital Tools
Example: Lincoln Elementary school District, Illinois
Faced with behavioral challenges and low engagement, Lincoln Elementary adopted a multi-platform SEL approach combining Second Step, ClassDojo, and MoodMeter.
- Implementation: Teachers received PD on SEL integration. Each school day began with a digital mood check-in, SEL stories, or guided reflection.
- Results: The school reported a 30% decrease in disciplinary referrals within six months. Student surveys showed improved emotional regulation and a stronger sense of belonging.
- Teacher Insight: “SEL apps didn’t just change our classroom culture—they changed the way our students support and understand each other,” said Ms. Pereira, a fifth-grade teacher at Lincoln Elementary.
First-Hand Experience: Teachers Share Their Insights
Many educators notice significant positive shifts after integrating SEL digital resources:
“Using ClassDojo for daily feedback,I saw a dramatic enhancement in students’ empathy and respect for one another.”
– Mr. Bennett, 3rd Grade Teacher
“MoodMeter empowered my students to communicate their feelings more clearly. It’s a powerful tool for building classroom trust.”
– Ms. Li, Middle School Counselor
Conclusion: Empowering the Next Generation with Tech-Enabled SEL
The rise of SEL tools and apps is helping educators everywhere foster safer, happier, and more inclusive classrooms. By thoughtfully leveraging technology like Second Step, ClassDojo, EVERFI, and Peekapak, schools can nurture social-emotional skills that benefit students throughout their lives. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or parent, embracing these resources is a critical step toward creating healthy learning environments where every child can thrive.
Ready to transform your classroom culture? Begin exploring these top tools, integrate SEL into your daily routines, and watch your students embark on a journey of personal growth and well-being.