In today’s world, academic skills are just one part of a child’s development. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is equally important—it equips children with the skills to understand and manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions.

Understanding Social-Emotional Learning

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process through which children (and adults!) develop critical life skills that help them succeed in school, work, and life. According to the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), SEL involves five key competencies: (casel.org)

1. Self-Awareness: Recognizing one’s emotions, strengths, and values.

2. Self-Management: Regulating emotions, controlling impulses, and setting personal goals.

3. Social Awareness: Understanding and empathizing with others, including those from diverse backgrounds.

4. Relationship Skills: Building healthy relationships, communicating effectively, and collaborating.

5. Responsible Decision-Making: Making ethical, constructive choices about personal and social behavior.

Why SEL is Important for Children

SEL is about more than just “being nice.” It is directly linked to academic success, mental health, and lifelong wellbeing. Research shows that children who participate in SEL programs demonstrate:

• Improved academic performance edutopia.org

• Increased empathy and better social skills

• Reduced emotional distress and behavioral problems

• Greater resilience in facing challenges

• Stronger ability to manage stress and conflict

By integrating SEL into daily life—through classroom instruction, family routines, and even stories—children can learn how to handle emotions, relate to others, and make thoughtful decisions.

How Children’s Books Can Support SEL

Stories are a natural way to teach SEL concepts. Children can see themselves in characters, explore feelings, and learn problem-solving strategies. Books like Mila the Mollusk are perfect examples, as they help children navigate confidence, courage, kindness, and emotional growth through engaging narratives.

Reading together allows parents, older siblings, and caregivers to discuss emotions, ask reflective questions, and encourage empathy—all important components of SEL.

Tips for Encouraging SEL at Home

1. Discuss feelings openly: Ask children how characters in stories might feel and why.

2. Model emotional regulation: Show children healthy ways to handle frustration, disappointment, and joy.

3. Practice empathy: Encourage children to consider others’ perspectives in daily situations.

4. Use role-play or storytelling: Reenact situations from books to explore emotions and solutions.

5. Reinforce positive behavior: Celebrate acts of kindness, sharing, and cooperation.

By nurturing SEL at home and in school, children develop the skills they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. These foundational skills set the stage for confident, caring, and resilient individuals who can navigate life’s challenges successfully.