Free TeachMeet on September 23: Navigating the Election
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This famous quote from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet reminds us that names don’t change the essence of something. The same can be said for social and emotional learning (SEL) —whether we call it character development, life skills, emotional intelligence, or 21st-century competencies, the skills and mindsets cultivated through an integrated approach to SEL are critical for student success in school, work, and life.
Students today face a rapidly evolving world. As they encounter academic pressures and social challenges, often made more complex by digital interactions and a polarized landscape, they need more than just knowledge to thrive. The ability to work with others who hold multiple perspectives to solve complex problems, while navigating emotions and conflict is what is needed to meet the issues of these times. Emotional intelligence and critical thinking are more important than ever. Research consistently shows that strong SEL competencies lead to:
Educators and school leaders recognize this, yet SEL can sometimes become a debate over terminology rather than a focus on what truly matters: empowering students with the skills they need to succeed.
At the Institute for Social and Emotional Learning (IFSEL), we work with schools worldwide to integrate SEL into classrooms, school culture, and leadership development. Some schools call it character education, others refer to it as emotional intelligence or whole-child learning—but regardless of what you call it, the core goal is the same: supporting students to develop self-awareness, resilience, and interpersonal skills. Ideally, SEL is integrated into all aspects of the school community and “belongs to everyone.” And research confirms that we can’t skip working with the adults. When we start by building adult SEL and wellbeing, everyone benefits.
Through IFSEL’s customized consulting services, we partner with schools to design SEL strategies that fit their unique cultures, ensuring that educators, administrators, and families are equipped to support students' social and emotional growth.
For SEL to have a lasting impact, schools need more than just a program—they need a comprehensive approach. IFSEL offers:
By investing in SEL, schools enhance student well-being, build stronger communities, and create environments where every learner can thrive.
The conversation around education often shifts—focusing on test scores, curriculum changes, and new teaching methodologies. But one thing remains constant: students who feel a sense of belonging and embody strong social and emotional skills and mindsets are prepared for the complexities of life.
No matter what we call it, SEL is not an add-on; it’s a necessity. Whether you’re an administrator, teacher, or caregiver, fostering these skills is one of the most impactful ways to ensure students' success—not just in school, but in their futures.
IFSEL partners with schools and districts worldwide to build sustainable, research-backed SEL programs tailored to their communities. Let’s work together to help every student develop the skills they need to flourish—no matter what name we give them.
Learn more about IFSEL’s consulting and training opportunities: IFSEL SEL Programs
Whether we call it character development, life skills, emotional intelligence, or 21st-century competencies, the skills and mindsets cultivated through an integrated approach to SEL are critical for student success in school, work, and life.
Learn MoreDownloadWhether we call it character development, life skills, emotional intelligence, or 21st-century competencies, the skills and mindsets cultivated through an integrated approach to SEL are critical for student success in school, work, and life.
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