Top Tools & Apps Supporting SEL in Schools: Essential Resources for Student Well-Being
Social-emotional learning (SEL) is at the forefront of modern education, helping students develop critical life skills such as self-awareness, empathy, decision-making, and resilience. With classrooms evolving in the digital age, educators are increasingly turning to innovative SEL tools and apps to nurture student well-being. In this thorough guide, we’ll explore the top platforms, their benefits, and essential tips for integrating SEL technology into your school or district—empowering every student’s emotional growth.
Why SEL Matters: The Foundation of Student Well-Being
SEL programs equip students not just with academic knowledge but also with emotional intelligence, self-regulation, and social skills necessary for lifelong success. According to CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning), effective SEL implementation leads to improvements in classroom climate, academic performance, and student behavior. Integrating SEL tools also addresses increased mental health needs and fosters an inclusive,supportive learning environment.
- Improved Academic achievement – SEL contributes to better grades and engagement.
- Positive Classroom Culture – students feel safer and more connected.
- Reduced Behavioral Issues – SEL programs decrease suspensions,bullying,and absenteeism.
- readiness for Life – Skills like empathy and resilience help students navigate real-world challenges.
Top SEL Tools & Apps for Schools in 2024
Below is a curated list of top SEL tools and apps, chosen for their research-based frameworks, ease of use, and proven impact on student well-being. Thes platforms cater to various grade levels, learning formats, and school environments.
1. Second Step
Second Step is a leader in evidence-based SEL curriculum for preschool to middle school.Their digital platform provides interactive lessons, teacher resources, and data tracking.
- Research-backed and easy to implement
- weekly lesson plans for grades PK-8
- Support for family engagement and teacher training
- Focus on empathy, emotion management, problem-solving
- Learn More
2. ClassDojo
ClassDojo fosters a positive classroom culture with easy communication tools, SEL activities, and portfolio features. Teachers can award points for SEL competencies, making progress visible and engaging.
- Supports mindfulness, growth mindset, and gratitude
- Real-time messaging between teachers, students, and parents
- Digital portfolios showcase student progress
- Works across devices for hybrid/remote settings
- Learn More
3. Mood Meter by Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence
This app encourages tracking and labeling emotions, strengthening emotional awareness—a cornerstone SEL skill.Students learn to recognize and manage their feelings, increasing self-regulation.
- Promotes emotional vocabulary and reflection
- Tracks trends over time for teachers and students
- Strengthens mental wellness and coping skills
- Learn More
4. GoNoodle
GoNoodle transforms active breaks into SEL skill-building moments with movement, mindfulness, and short video activities. Perfect for elementary classrooms, it helps students manage stress and re-focus.
- Fun, interactive videos for movement and breathing
- Accessible for all ages and abilities
- Integrates SEL themes: kindness, focusing, emotional management
- learn More
5. EVERFI
EVERFI’s digital courses cover SEL for K-12, including empathy, digital citizenship, mental health literacy, and responsible decision-making.
- Engaging modules with real-world scenarios
- Customizable for districts and educators
- Tracks student progress and outcomes
- Learn More
6. Inner Explorer
Built for schools, Inner Explorer offers daily guided mindfulness for stress reduction and enhanced focus. Audio practices foster calm, learning readiness, and self-compassion.
- Easy to integrate into daily routines
- Voice-guided mindfulness tailored by age group
- Shown to improve attendance and reduce behavioral issues
- Learn More
7. Microsoft Reflect
Part of Microsoft Teams for Education, Reflect helps students express their feelings using emojis, journaling prompts, and mood tracking. Teachers can access actionable well-being insights.
- integrates with popular learning platforms
- Supports check-ins for different age groups
- Easy reporting and analytics for educators
- Learn More
benefits of Using SEL Technology in Education
integrating these SEL tools and apps into daily classroom practices can transform student experiences and outcomes. some of the top benefits include:
- Engagement: Gamified activities and digital check-ins boost participation.
- Accessibility: Students can access supports in remote, hybrid, and in-person formats.
- Early Intervention: Real-time data helps schools identify and support struggling students.
- Family Involvement: Many platforms extend SEL learning into homes for holistic development.
- Personalization: Enables tailored supports based on individual social-emotional needs.
- Accountability: Analytics allow educators to measure progress and refine strategies.
Practical Tips for Implementing SEL Apps in Schools
No matter your school’s size or budget, these practical tips can definitely help maximize the impact of SEL technology:
- Start Small: Choose one or two tools to pilot. gather feedback from teachers and students.
- Professional Development: Offer training on app features, best practices, and SEL fundamentals.
- Student Choice: Let students select activities or reflection tools that resonate with them.
- Integrate into Routines: Embed SEL check-ins and activities into morning meetings or advisory periods.
- Involve Families: Share resources and invite caregivers to engage in SEL content.
- Monitor & Adjust: Use platform analytics to track outcomes and adjust implementation as needed.
Case Study: SEL apps in action
Let’s look at how one middle school successfully integrated SEL technology to support student well-being:
Case Study: Riverside Middle School, Ohio
Faced with increased anxiety and absenteeism post-pandemic, Riverside piloted Second Step and ClassDojo in fall 2023. Teachers used weekly SEL lessons and daily mood check-ins. Over six months, students reported higher levels of trust and safety. Behavioral referrals dropped by 34%, and teacher surveys indicated improved classroom climate. Family engagement rose through ClassDojo portfolios and message threads. The school now plans to expand SEL technology district-wide.
First-Hand Experience: Teacher & Student Voices
Real stories from educators and students highlight the transformative power of SEL apps:
- Teacher Outlook – Ms. Lee, 3rd Grade: “GoNoodle’s short movement breaks changed the vibe in my classroom. My students have learned to use breathing exercises before tests.Their confidence and self-control have grown.”
- Student Perspective – Jayden, 7th Grade: “Second Step taught me how to talk about my feelings and solve problems with friends.The lessons make me feel understood.”
- School Counselor – Mr. Ahmed: “The Mood Meter app lets students track emotions. I can spot trends and intervene early. it’s a game-changer for mental health support.”
Conclusion: Elevating student Well-Being Through SEL Tools & Apps
Technology is rapidly transforming the way schools support social-emotional growth. By leveraging top SEL tools and apps like Second Step, ClassDojo, mood Meter, and others, educators can ignite positive change in student well-being and academic success. These platforms foster skills like empathy, self-regulation, resilience, and communication—preparing students not just for school, but for life.
Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or parent, exploring these SEL resources for schools creates a compassionate culture where every student can thrive. Start small, choose the best platforms for your community, and watch your classroom transform into a haven of well-being and connection.
Ready to Bring SEL Tools to Your School?
Identify your school’s needs and start exploring SEL apps today. Share your experiences or favorite tools in the comments below—let’s build a network dedicated to student well-being together!