The five blocks below define the core areas of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) through a culturally responsive and culturally affirming lens. The linked activities empower youth to foster their personal and collective voice and role in diverse communities. Our activities challenge youth to discuss identity and social issues, respect others, and take generous action toward a socially just community.
Youth may feel more valued and empowered when using culturally responsive, relevant, and affirming SEL activities that encourage them to connect with their strengths, discover what means most to them, and imagine ways they might contribute collaboratively to the world. See CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning) for focused SEL information.
- Self-Awareness
- Self-Management
- Responsible Decision-Making
- Social-Awareness
- Relationship Skills
Culturally Responsive SEL for Social Justice
The promise of SEL is that we develop healthy identities, relationships, and emotional intelligence. This practice includes creating safe spaces to talk with courage about what really matters and honestly confront what isn't working, like injustice and hate. The work in this set of resources was inspired by Dena Simmons, who is an expert in SEL, racial justice, and healing.
We recommend that leaders who use these resources pre-read them, practice them, and discuss concepts with colleagues. It is important to be ready to share our own stories and be vulnerable with youth.
Refine your search by key words of themes in the culturally responsive SEL activities here.
In the blocks below, Learning to Give's full SEL content is grouped by core SEL competencies.
