Is SEL Effective in After School Programs?

Often times we will reference 'research' when discussing the fact-based evidence that supports Social Emotional Learning. One prominent resource in SEL advocacy is the article authored by Noelle Hurd and Nancy Deutsch titled "SEL Focused After School Programs." The article focuses on the importance of Social Emotional Learning in after-school programs.

The main takeaways include:

1. Benefits of SEL in After-School Programs: The article highlights the positive impact of SEL programs on students' academic achievement, social skills, emotional well-being, and behavior.

1. Key Components of Effective SEL Programs: Effective SEL programs in after-school settings incorporate evidence-based practices such as promoting self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.

2. Cultural Responsiveness: It emphasizes the importance of cultural responsiveness in SEL programs to ensure that interventions are relevant and meaningful for diverse student populations.

3. Teacher Training and Support: The article underscores the necessity of providing adequate training and support for after-school staff to effectively implement SEL interventions and foster a positive learning environment.

4. Evaluation and Assessment: Effective SEL programs incorporate ongoing evaluation and assessment to measure the impact of interventions and make necessary adjustments to improve outcomes for students.  

Overall the article emphasizes the importance of integrating Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into after-school programming, offering valuable insights into effective implementation and evaluation strategies. These practices are fundamental to the success of our after-school programs and summer camps at IWRBR. By dedicating extra time to teach children self-awareness and understanding of their surroundings, we aim to equip them with the skills necessary for leading fulfilling and productive lives - IWRBR's mission in a nutshell!

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Source: Hurd, Noelle, and Nancy Deutsch. “SEL-Focused After-School Programs.” The Future of Children, vol. 27, no. 1, 2017, pp. 95–115. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/44219023. Accessed 13 Mar. 2024.