The Benefits of Social-Emotional Learning
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) equips students with essential life skills that have a significant impact on their academic success, mental well-being, and future prospects. Here are some of the key benefits of incorporating SEL into education:
1. Academic Success:
Research shows that SEL not only improves achievement by an average of 11 percentile points, but it also increases prosocial behaviors, improves student attitudes toward school, and reduces depression and stress among students
.
Students are more successful in school and daily life when they have the opportunity to develop social and emotional skills
.
2. Mental Well-being:
SEL programs impact students’ central executive cognitive functions, which improves their ability to self-regulate and gives them a greater ability to manage their emotions
.
Students who demonstrate these skills are better equipped to navigate complex situations, solve problems, and contribute positively to their communities
.
3. Life Skills:
SEL equips students with vital life skills that extend beyond the classroom, such as managing emotions, resolving conflicts, and communicating effectively
.
By improving interpersonal skills through SEL, students are ultimately setting themselves up for success in all areas of life
.
4. Long-term Impact:
Social-emotional skills help students focus, make good decisions, and become supportive members of their community well beyond school
.
Students who are equipped to deal with problems that affect them on a personal level are then better able to navigate the pressures of adult life
.

• Previous Entry: The Physical Benefits of Exercise
• Next Entry: Virginia’s Evolving Education Landscape