How schools can integrate emotional intelligence training into the curriculum

Teaching children how to manage their emotions and respond appropriately to the emotions of others is an important part of education. To accomplish this task, many educators are incorporating social and emotional learning (SEL) programs into the curriculum. These programs are not only effective in improving students’ emotional intelligence, but SEL programs also prevent bullying and increase academic success. What’s more, integrating SEL into daily lesson plans helps students understand how to behave with their peers.

Embed SEL into Lesson Plans

Instead of doing a lesson specifically on social skills or emotions, try incorporating these lessons into what you are already teaching. For instance, in science, if you are discussing molecules, you also could ask students what forms good partnerships. Another option might include reading a book or discussing a history lesson about a socially challenging situation. Engage your students in a conversation about handling social problems. Then the lesson becomes about literacy, history and social and emotional learning.

Engage Students in Problem-Solving

Whether it’s helping solve a difficult math problem or developing a set of class rules at the beginning of the year, engage kids in all types of problem-solving. For instance, if kids are having trouble waiting their turn in class ask students “Can you think of a way that will help you remember to wait your turn?” You also could ask older students' input on bullying at school and what they think the school should do to address it. Often the best ideas for dealing with issues come from the students themselves. Group projects are a useful way to teach students how to work together, which is a skill they will need in many areas of life.