As a social emotional learning coach, I have some pretty interesting and helpful conversations with teachers on a daily basis about integrating SEL into the already packed classroom day. I designed these SEL workbooks specifically with this busy, overwhelmed teacher in mind. Teachers KNOW the importance of SEL, want to engage in this important content with their students, but struggle to find the time. These SEL workbooks are print and go and can so easily support other curricular connections! Let’s dive in.
What’s in these SEL workbooks?
I sell each workbook individually, but also as a bundle. The bundle is a collection of print-and-go workbooks, each uniquely tailored to a specific aspect of SEL. Here’s a glimpse into what it includes:
- Volcano of Emotions – My Anger Workbook: This gem is all about anger management. It helps students recognize and understand their anger, guiding them to reflect on strategies that work best for them. Think of it as a map to navigate the tricky terrain of anger. This workbook is all volcano themed! I love the idea of connecting it to other books where characters experience anger, an Earth science connection, or to use in a social work group for students who regularly have big feelings surrounding anger.
- Growing My Mindset – My Mindset Workbook: Growth mindset is the star here. It encourages students to embrace challenges, learn from failures, and understand the power of ‘yet’. This workbook is like a seed, ready to sprout a resilient, growth-oriented mindset in your students. It’s all garden themed! Growth mindset is relevant all year round, but if you do a plants unit or have a school garden, this is the perfect tie in.
- Weathering My Worries – My Worry Workbook: Focusing on anxiety and worry management, this workbook is like an anchor in a stormy sea. It offers strategies to help students manage their worries, fostering a sense of calm and resilience. I love the weather theme of this one, it’s really engaging and fun to make curricular connections. There are so many great non-fiction books on weather, and connecting this to a unit on non fiction text features or main idea could be a nice bridge!
Why They’re a Classroom Must-Have
- Easy to Use: These workbooks are designed for simplicity and ease. Print them out, and you’re good to go. No cutting, laminating, gluing, making examples. Just staple and go!
- Engaging Content: Each workbook is packed with engaging, interactive activities that speak directly to students. It’s like having a conversation on paper.
- Tailored Learning: The focus on individual SEL topics allows for targeted learning. Whether it’s managing anger, cultivating a growth mindset, or handling anxiety, there’s something for every need.
- Promotes Reflection: These aren’t just activities; they’re reflections. Students get to explore their inner workings and discover what strategies work best for them.
Tips for Implementing in Your Classroom
- Integrate into Daily Routines: Make these workbooks a regular part of your classroom routine. Dedicate a few minutes each day or week to SEL.
- Create a Safe Space: Foster an environment where students feel safe to share and explore their emotions.
- Encourage Open Discussions: After completing workbook activities, facilitate group discussions. This can deepen understanding and build a supportive classroom community. These shared experiences are really incredible for building a solid foundation in your classroom.
- Involve Caregivers: Keep them in the loop. Share insights and suggest ways they can reinforce these skills at home.
Wrapping Up
Incorporating these SEL workbooks into your classroom is a simple way to make a huge impact. These workbooks are also perfect for social work groups, school counseling sessions, social pragmatic groups, and more. They definitely don’t need to be used as a whole class activity, but it’s important to remember that ALL emotions are important, and we ALL experience them. Supporting skills like these with ALL kids is a no harm, helpful intervention with kids.