Resources

In a time of overwhelming demands on schools, Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is not “one more thing” — it’s the one thing that connects everything else that matters. Far from a program or political agenda, SEL is a human-centered framework that fosters belonging, resilience, equity, and collective well-being. IFSEL’s Whole Community Approach helps schools embed SEL into everyday practices, relationships, and structures. When done with care and intention, SEL becomes the foundation for learning, justice, healing, and hope — especially in the complex world we face today.

In Chapter 6 of this new book, "Building and Sustaining a Whole-Community Approach to Equity-Rooted SEL", IFSEL Executive Director and Co-Founder Nick Haisman-Smith outlines a bold, evidence-informed vision for embedding Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) across entire school communities. Moving beyond the idea of SEL as a stand-alone program, the chapter argues that SEL must be an Approach woven into the fabric of teaching, learning, and school culture. Grounded in principles of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), and with a strong emphasis on educator wellbeing, it offers practical strategies for schools and districts seeking lasting, transformative change. Drawing on global research and field-tested practices, the chapter introduces five interconnected dimensions of a Whole-Community Approach to SEL—from student skills and educator practices to school-wide systems and authentic connections with families. With insights into creating culturally responsive, strengths-based environments, it invites educators and leaders to reimagine SEL as a shared responsibility and a catalyst for belonging, academic success, and mental health and wellbeing. To read the chapter, please email connect@instituteforsel.net

True transformation happens when SEL is embedded across all aspects of school life, aligning policies, practices, and daily experiences with the values we hope to instill.

How One School Turned Playtime into a Pillar of Social and Emotional Growth

Incorporating nature into the school day benefits mental health, focus, and students’ academic performance. IFSEL offers 5 practical ways to bring nature into learning environments

A perfect blend of school appropriate songs for classroom parties, school activities, and focus time. IFSEL has created a blend of genres for elementary school to dance to and high schoolers won't cringe at!

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.

Explore six engaging activities that help students connect with nature—whether in lush green spaces or urban landscapes—while embracing Ada Limón’s concept of “Daily Nature.”

Restorative practices integrated with SEL create a framework for inclusive, empathetic school communities, balancing proactive strategies to foster belonging with responsive techniques to repair harm and rebuild trust.

A mid-year tune up of classroom culture provides a valuable opportunity for educators to strengthen connections, foster belonging, and create an inclusive, emotionally safe environment where students and staff can thrive together for the rest of the school year.

Reflection is a powerful tool that deepens self-awareness, empathy, and connection. By integrating reflective practices into the classroom, educators foster a culture of curiosity, understanding, and personal growth

Learning to acknowledge and appreciate others increases a sense of community. Here are a few unique ways to highlight diverse talents, viewpoints, and personality traits.

Encouraging students to express their opinions in a respectful and empathetic manner helps them navigate disagreements constructively. These tips offer language and strategies to support positive communication, especially when opinions differ, empowering students within and beyond the classroom.

Five strategies for high school seniors to help ease the college application process.

Inside Out 2 can be used to teach SEL by discussing strategies for managing emotions and exploring what makes healthy relationships.

A sense of community - ‘we’re all in this together’ allows all students to participate and be successful.

Creating classroom agreements fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where students feel respected and encouraged to develop their social and emotional skills.

Insights from Amanda Santos Valenzuela, Wellness Department Head at The Winsor School

Read more about how Pixar's latest release, "Inside Out 2" (2024), connects with social and emotional learning (SEL), and why it’s important to everyone and their lives.

Learn the best tips and tricks on how to “Glo Up” and stay productive throughout the summer by preparing yourself for life’s biggest changes. Whether it’s entering high school, moving to college, or navigating the workforce.

IFSEL Co-founder and Director, Janice Toben, shares insights on her civil rights journey last April with husband, Steve Toben

24 activities to keep your summer fun, refresh for the next school year, and promote positivity

Chelsea Conwell, an innovative educator, recipient of the IFSEL’s Daniel B. Sweeney Scholarship and a participant in IFSEL's SEL Leadership Program, shares how to foster deeper connections with students.

“SEL Work is a part of everything we do,” says Katie Levinthal, Middle School Counselor at Cary Academy. Read Levinthal’s tips and tricks on how transitioning to this new program can be a smooth process so students have a more connected and impactful school experience.

Working parents face increasing challenges in balancing personal and professional responsibilities, especially with remote work and disruptions in childcare, necessitating supportive workplace environments to enhance employee well-being and productivity. Research suggests t...

I'm Annabelle Persaud, one of the Communications and Marketing Interns at IFSEL. I am currently a second-year undergraduate student studying Communication at the University of California, Santa Barbara...

Establishing student-centered discipline practices reduce disruptive behaviors and empower students to handle conflicts through assertive communication and emotion regulation strategies creating an environment where everyone feels valued and ready to learn.

Creating and sustaining a Whole Community Approach to SEL for your school or district can be challenging. We had the pleasure of talking with Leslie Anway, PsyD, NCSP, the Director of Resilient Schools at Pima County School Superintendent’s Office in Tucson, about creating sustainable system changes within schools.

Seven ways to recharge when you need to take a meaningful break.

Insights from Cait Kamins, Director of Human Development and Upper School Advisory at Viewpoint School

Movies are a great way to decompress and can also be a great SEL education tool. Below are some recommendations.

Michelle Cristella shares her six tips for educators seeking to establish and improve their school's advisory programs using the IFSEL model.

Inclusive and autism-affirming SEL can reduce bullying and the need for masking by fostering understanding and acceptance of autistic students' social and emotional differences.

Emotionally safe classrooms are responsive to students’ needs and perspectives, affirm students’ identities and have consistent and predictable routines and procedures.

SEL Practice to Prioritize Connection and Belonging

If the increased investments in SEL made over the last several years are to yield the intended outcomes for students, the social and emotional wellness of those leading that work must be a priority.

In the rush to finish the year academically, it is important to take time to meet the social and emotional needs of students. Here are some activities to close the year with hope and joy.

Interview with Kate Casper discussing how Winsor School uses a comprehensive, community-centered approach to SEL.

Free tool uses a student-centered, whole-community approach to help organizations better understand the strengths and areas for growth of their current SEL Program

Using the power of collective empathy to figure out the "how" of our daily lives.

Podcast discussing what SEL is, it's importance for communities and how SEL is important for aspects of our mental health.

Seven low-prep, high-impact strategies for Advisory Programs

A daily check-in with students offers an opportunity to strengthen self-awareness, decision-making, social awareness, empathy, and relationships.

Jessica Stralkowski, an advisory teacher at the American School of Dubai, discusses how she uses SEL to prepare for a service learning trip.

How La Jolla Country Day School uses SEL Practices to solve the “Now what? How do we best support the wellbeing of students?”

SEL must be integrated across the entire school community, not just in isolated lessons, to truly build emotional intelligence (EQ), foster belonging, and promote equity. Seattle Country Day School embraced a Whole Community Approach to SEL through spiraling curriculum, inclusive pedagogy, adult wellbeing, systemic alignment, and family engagement, transforming relationships and strengthening student growth.

Interview of Julie Lemley, High School Principal, International School of Beijing

Nick Haisman-Smith, Executive Director at IFSEL offers us his perspective on the “How” and “What” of supporting SEL in AISA Schools.

To celebrate The United Nation's World Book and Copyright Day on April 23, the IFSEL Team is excited to share some fascinating resources.

An excerpt from Meredith Dodd's essay by the same title ......

6 Things to Check that Might be getting in the Way of the Inclusive Power of an Appreciation Circle Practice in your School Community.

In our students’ over-scheduled and busy days, there is a critical need for educators to offer windows where students can pause.

Refresh and reconsider some of go-to online teaching tools.

To our Black students, colleagues, and communities - you matter. Your lives matter. We stand with you now and always.

Inspire your students to contribute to a meaningful cause or service project this summer. Here's a few resources to help.

Mary Michaels Estraada recounts the power of Checking In.

The IFSEL team's curated ideas that, we hope, address some of the SEL needs of students and educators.

Valentina Rodriguez, MD. School Therapist, frankly discusses her experience at the IFSEL Summer Institute.

Six strategies to fuel relationships and empathy in Middle and High School Advisory/Homeroom

Morgan Ome reflects on the impact SEL had and has on her life and work.

Learn about Seattle Country Day School's approach to SEL.

Guest author Jessica Berlinski writes a thoughtful piece on the power of SEL and Open Session.