Top Tools & Apps Supporting SEL in Schools: Essential Solutions for Social-Emotional Learning
In today’s dynamic educational landscape, social-emotional learning (SEL) is more critically important than ever for students’ well-being, engagement, and academic success. With a growing demand for effective SEL strategies, schools are leveraging innovative tools and apps to enhance emotional intelligence, resilience, and positive relationships among students. If you’re an educator, administrator, or parent seeking the best SEL resources, you’ve come to the right place. This thorough guide covers the top tools and apps supporting SEL in schools, their benefits, integration tips, and real-world examples, empowering you to make informed choices for your learning community.
What is Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)?
Social-emotional learning is the process through which individuals develop the skills to manage emotions, set goals, show empathy, maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.SEL is crucial for creating a productive classroom environment, improving student wellbeing, and fostering lifelong success. SEL programs often cover five key competencies:
- self-awareness
- Self-management
- social awareness
- Relationship skills
- Responsible decision-making
Why SEL matters in schools
integrating SEL into the curriculum leads to numerous benefits, including:
- Improved academic performance
- Better classroom behavior
- Reduced emotional distress
- Enhanced resilience and coping skills
- Lower rates of bullying and absenteeism
- Stronger teacher-student relationships
Given these advantages, it’s no surprise that many schools are turning to SEL apps and digital platforms as essential solutions to support student development.
Top Tools & Apps Supporting SEL in Schools
The following tools and apps are among the best resources for supporting SEL in schools, offering valuable features for teachers, students, and administrators alike.
1. Second Step
Second Step is a globally recognized SEL curriculum that combines classroom-tested lessons, interactive activities, and multimedia content. The Second Step SEL digital toolkit supports K-8 students,providing:
- Age-appropriate lesson plans and videos
- Mindfulness and emotion regulation exercises
- bullying prevention modules
- Resources for teachers and families
why educators love it: Simple interface,easy integration,and evidence-based strategies.
2. SkillStruck
skillstruck offers SEL activities embedded in digital learning adventures, combining technology with social-emotional skills. The platform emphasizes:
- Interactive challenges for empathy, resilience, and self-management
- Customizable lessons for all grade levels
- Progress tracking and reporting for teachers
3.Zones of Regulation App
The zones of Regulation app translates the famous curriculum into interactive experiences. Students learn to identify and regulate emotions, using color-coded zones:
- Games and activities for emotional awareness
- Visual guides for self-regulation strategies
- Teacher dashboard for feedback and customization
4.Positivity by 7 Mindsets
positivity is a digital platform based on the 7 Mindsets framework,designed to increase engagement and build positive classroom culture. Key features include:
- Daily SEL check-ins and mood tracking
- Personalized learning paths
- Collaboration features to strengthen relationships
5. ClassDojo
ClassDojo is well-known for building classroom communities and promoting positive behaviors through its SEL tools. Teachers use ClassDojo to:
- Reward good behavior and growth mindset
- Share SEL activities and updates with families
- Enable students to reflect on emotions and goals
6. Mood Meter App
Developed by the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, the Mood Meter App helps users track feelings and learn strategies to increase emotional intelligence.Features include:
- visual mood tracking grid
- Personalized tips on managing emotions
- Progress monitoring for students and teachers
7. Emotionary
Emotionary is an app that enables students to journal, name, and understand their emotions in a safe, interactive environment. Highlights:
- Emotion-based diary and sharing tools
- SEL games and mindfulness activities
- Teacher controls for privacy and engagement
Key Benefits of SEL Tools & Apps in Schools
Digital SEL solutions offer unique advantages for educators and learners:
- Accessibility: Anytime, anywhere access for diverse learners
- Engagement: Interactive features keep students motivated
- Customization: Activities tailored to individual needs
- Data-Driven Insights: Progress tracking enables targeted support
- Family Connection: Apps facilitate collaboration between school and home
Practical Tips for Successful SEL App Integration
For maximum impact, successful SEL implementation with digital tools requires thoughtful planning. Here are some tips:
- Start Small: Pilot one app or tool before scaling to entire grade levels.
- Train Staff: Offer professional development for teachers on effective SEL strategies and app features.
- Student Involvement: allow students choice and voice in SEL activities; foster student leadership.
- family Engagement: Communicate with families about SEL programs; provide resources for at-home support.
- Feedback & Adjustment: Collect regular feedback and be prepared to adapt for your school’s unique needs.
Case Study: SEL Success with classdojo
Many schools have reported transformative results after introducing ClassDojo. As an example, an elementary school in Colorado adopted ClassDojo as its primary SEL platform. Over the course of the academic year:
- Teacher-student relationships improved dramatically
- Behavioral incidents dropped by 27%
- Family engagement increased through regular updates and tips
- Students demonstrated greater emotional awareness during weekly class meetings
Educators at the school credited classdojo’s user-pleasant interface, reward system, and ready-to-use SEL resources for helping build a positive learning environment.
Firsthand Experience: A Teacher’s Perspective on Mood Meter
“Integrating the Mood Meter App into my morning routine has changed the way my class talks about feelings. My students are more pleasant sharing, and I can quickly spot anyone who might need extra support. It’s become as essential as our daily attendance!”
– Ms. Lewis, Fifth Grade Teacher
FAQs: Choosing the Best SEL Tools & Apps
- Are SEL apps suitable for all grade levels?
Many SEL apps offer flexible features and content for every age, from early learners to teens. - How secure are SEL platforms?
Reputable SEL tools follow strict privacy standards and allow educators to control student data and access. - Can SEL apps be used for remote learning?
Yes! most platforms are designed for hybrid and remote settings, supporting SEL across environments.
Conclusion: Empowering Students With SEL Solutions for Lifelong Success
Social-emotional learning is the foundation for wellness, resilience, and academic achievement. As digital learning continues to evolve, the top SEL tools and apps for schools provide innovative, accessible, and impactful solutions to nurture every student. Whether you’re beginning your SEL journey or seeking to deepen your program, these essential resources empower schools to build caring communities, foster emotional intelligence, and support lifelong learners. Ready to transform your classroom culture with SEL? explore, implement, and inspire!
Keywords: SEL apps, social emotional learning tools, SEL solutions, digital SEL platforms, SEL curriculum, classroom SEL, student wellbeing, emotional intelligence, school SEL programs, mood meter, ClassDojo, Second Step.