The COVID-19 pandemic has left a lasting impact on the social-emotional well-being of students. As schools return to in-person learning, educators are faced with the challenge of addressing the diverse emotional needs of students who have experienced unprecedented disruptions. Research shows that the pandemic has Increased feelings of anxiety, loneliness and uncertainty among young studentsmaking social-emotional learning (SEL) more critical than ever.
A study by the American Psychological Association found that post-COVID recovery Mental health-related incidents in children and adolescents were on the riseIn addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted a Significant increase in mental health-related emergency room visits Among children. As we navigate this new landscape, schools must adopt innovative and practical strategies to support students’ social-emotional learning needs, even with limited time and resources.
Image credit: Khan Academy Kids
Unique Strategies for Implementing Social-Emotional Learning with Limited Resources
Emotional recording stations
Create simple, designated spaces in classrooms where students can “check in” with their emotions at the beginning and end of the day. These stations can include mood meters, emoji charts, or even a “feelings box” where students can leave anonymous notes. Not only does this practice help students identify and express their emotions, it also provides teachers with insight into their emotional states.
Storytelling and role-playing games
Encourage students to share their stories and experiences of the pandemic or other difficult times through creative storytelling activities or role-playing. This approach allows students to process their emotions and develop empathy by understanding their peers’ experiences.
Moments of mindfulness
Incorporate short moments of mindfulness throughout the school day to help students manage stress and focus. These can include breathing exercises, guided imagery, or simple stretches. Mindfulness practices are quickly implemented and can be done in class or individually, allowing students to start the day calmly and focused.
Virtual Pen Pals and Buddy Systems
Foster connections and reduce feelings of isolation by creating virtual pen pals or buddy systems within the school or with other schools (feel free to use dictation or voice recording for students who are still gaining confidence in writing!). This initiative allows students to share their thoughts and feelings with their peers, providing a sense of community and support. It also improves communication skills and empathy.
Creative expression through art and play
Provide opportunities for creative expression through art, music, and play. Allowing students to express themselves creatively can be a powerful outlet for processing complex emotions. Activities such as drawing, crafting, or playing musical instruments can be integrated into the school day without requiring a lot of resources.
Image credit: Allison Leedie / Khan Academy Kids
How educational technology can help
edtech has emerged as an invaluable resource for addressing the diverse social-emotional learning needs of students, especially in the post-COVID-19 era. As many schools face resource constraints, edtech offers scalable and flexible solutions that can be easily integrated into daily routines. Here’s a look at how edtech can support social-emotional learning initiatives:
Scalable access to SEL resources
Educational technology platforms like Khan Academy Kids Offer a wide range of SEL content that students, teachers, and parents can access from anywhere. This accessibility ensures that SEL resources are available to all students, allowing them to use them when they need support the most.
Image credit: Khan Academy Kids
Personalized learning experiences
One of the most important benefits of educational technology is its ability to personalize learning experiences. Platforms can tailor content to meet the specific emotional and developmental needs of each student. For example, interactive activities in Khan Academy Kids’ social-emotional learning program can be tailored to help students explore their emotions at their own pace, making the learning experience more relevant and impactful.
Integration of interactive tools
Educational technology allows for the use of interactive tools, such as digital mood meters, emotion charts, and story-based scenarios, which can be more engaging for students than traditional methods. These tools can help students better understand and express their emotions. For example, the use of expressive characters and voice recordings on Khan Academy Kids allows students to explore a range of emotions in a fun and engaging way.
Support for teachers and parents
Educational technology platforms Provide valuable support for teachers and parents. offering ready-to-use resources and activities. This support is crucial, especially in environments where educators may lack specific training in social-emotional learning. Khan Academy Kids offers comprehensive guides and activities that can be used both in the classroom and at home, ensuring consistent social-emotional support across different settings.
Data-driven insights
Many edtech platforms offer data analytics tools that help educators track student progress and identify areas where additional support may be needed. This data-driven approach allows for more targeted interventions, ensuring students receive the help they need when they need it.
Image credit: Denisse Chao / Khan Academy Kids
Building a resilient future together
As we navigate the complexities of the post-COVID education landscape, prioritizing social-emotional learning is more important than ever. By leveraging sustainable practices and scaling them through educational technology, schools can provide scalable, personalized, and engaging social-emotional learning experiences that support students’ emotional and mental well-being.
