What SEL Looks Like in a Preschool Classroom
When people think of preschool, they often think of painting, snacks, and play time. While these activities are a significant part of preschool, there's something more important happening throughout the day-the building of social and emotional skills needed to be successful learners, have stable relationships, and a positive self-image. Social and emotional skills learned in early childhood will be carried throughout life.
In my classroom, SEL is woven into every activity and interaction. While I follow a dedicated SEL curriculum, it goes far beyond that — SEL is embedded in every word spoken, every routine, and every relationship we build.
SEL in action looks like children learning to identify their feelings, using kind words, practicing mindfulness and movement, engaging in expressive art, and playing social games that build empathy and cooperation. It also includes positive reinforcement and affirmations, visual supports, classroom jobs that promote responsibility, consistent routines, and tools for self-regulation.
SEL is the foundation upon which all other learning is built. I believe every preschool should not only have a structured SEL curriculum, but also intentionally integrate SEL throughout daily activities to support the whole child.
Create Your Own Website With Webador