The Importance of SEL In Building Strength and Resilience in Students
Dyslexia is one of the most common learning difficulties in the UK, with an estimated six million people living with the condition. Yet, while many people think it means difficulty with reading, it is much more than that. It is a unique way of thinking that unlocks creativity, innovation and resilience.
However, it requires a unique approach to education in order to unlock those unique outlooks. The difficulties associated with reading, writing and memory skills can lead to frustrating academic experiences, which are often compounded with emotional challenges like anxiety, self-doubt and isolation.
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is vital in helping to equip students with the tools and knowledge needed to overcome these challenges and transform their educational journey. In this latest article, we thought we would take a closer at the importance of SEL and how it can help build strength and resilience in academic settings and beyond.
The emotional impact of dyslexia
Dyslexia is often labelled solely as an academic challenge, but its impact runs far deeper into the emotional and social spheres of a student’s life. Some of the most common emotional challenges include:
1) Self-esteem and confidence
For children with dyslexia, frequent academic setbacks, such as struggling to read aloud or keeping up with written assignments, can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Over time, these experiences erode the child’s self-esteem and leaves them feeling like they’re incapable of success.
2) Stress and anxiety
Many dyslexic students report feeling overwhelmed in the classroom, especially when pressured to perform under traditional academic conditions that do not always align with their preferred learning style. The stress of completing these tasks or feeling like they appear different from their classmates can lead to chronic anxiety that further impedes their academic performance.
3) isolation and embarrassment
Dyslexia can also make students feel different, especially if they’re teased by peers or criticised for making mistakes. The resulting embarrassment often discourages them from participating in classroom activities or forming friendships, leading to a sense of social isolation.
As many as 60% of students with dyslexia have some form of psychological difficulties, such as anxiety, while an incredible 85% state they regularly feel embarrassed about their dyslexia.
What is Social and Emotional Learning and why is it important?
Social and Emotional Learning is an educational framework that is designed to nurture emotional intelligence and help equip students with skills to effectively manage their emotions, build positive relationships with their peers, and make responsible decisions. Incorporating SEL techniques into the classroom and at home helps to promote emotional intelligence and boosts academic achievement, preparing students for personal, professional and social success!
The five core competencies of SEL are:
1) Self-awareness
This is the ability to recognise your emotions, strengths and values and how they can influence behaviour. For example, becoming frustrated due to a challenging task and identifying strategies to cope with it.
2) Self-management
These are skills used to regulate emotions, set and achieve goals, manage stress and stay motivated during difficult periods.
3) Social awareness
This involves developing empathy and understanding how others are feeling and seeing things from their perspective.
4) Relationship skills
Effective communication, active listening, teamwork and knowing how to resolve conflict are all vital skills for building and maintaining healthy relationships.
5) Responsible decision-making
Finally, SEL helps empower students to make constructive and responsible decisions based on social norms and consequences.
Practical SEL strategies for supporting emotional resilience
There can be no denying the benefits of incorporating SEL techniques into your classroom or at home, and there are lots of strategies you can embrace to support emotional resilience.
Foster a growth mindset
A growth mindset encourages students to view challenges as opportunities rather than setbacks. So make sure you celebrate effort, not just outcomes. For example, praise the student for “working really hard on this”, which helps to reinforce perseverance.
Mistakes are a natural part of learning, but instead of making them a negative, reframe them as opportunities for learning and as a stepping stone to progress. You can also share stories and quotes from individuals who have overcome their dyslexia – we regularly share these on our Facebook and Instagram channels if you’re looking for some inspiration!
Teach emotional regulation skills
It’s also important to help students manage their emotions. Consider introducing mindfulness practices, such as breathing exercises, yoga or short meditation sessions to help calm the mind during stressful situations. You should also encourage students to identify their emotions and develop ways for them to express their feelings clearly.
Be sure to establish a quiet area in your classroom or at home that will allow the student to take a break and self-regulate when they are beginning to feel overwhelmed.
Encourage social connections
Strong peer relationships enhance emotional resilience and create a sense of belonging. Use team-building exercises to foster collaboration and implement a buddy system to pair students with a supportive peer.
Promote problem-solving and decision-making skills
You can empower your students by teaching them methods for solving problems and making better decisions. For example, teach students to get into the habit of assessing their situation first, brainstorming solutions, evaluating the pros and cons of the situation, and identifying the best course of action.
With younger children, act out various scenarios that involve resolving conflicts and practicing decision-making in real time.
Build emotional literacy
Understanding and articulating emotions builds resilience and reduces stress, so read books that feature characters who face and overcome challenges or practice daily emotional check-ins to encourage students to identify and share their emotions.
How does SEL help students?
There are a number of benefits that come from embracing SEL, such as:
1) Improved academic performance
Research shows that SEL contributes to better academic outcomes. Students with SEL competencies tend to be more engaged in the classroom, perform better on tests, and show improved problem-solving skills.
2) Enhances emotional wellbeing
Students who learn SEL skills are better equipped to manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. This promotes a positive outlook, resilience, and long-term mental health.
3) Builds social skills
Social competencies learned through SEL, such as collaboration and conflict resolution, are critical for thriving in diverse workplaces and communities.
4) Reduces risky behaviours
SEL helps individuals understand the long-term consequences of their choices, leading to reductions in bullying, aggression, and other harmful behaviours.
5) Prepares for long-term success
The emotional intelligence gained through SEL is invaluable for navigating personal and professional relationships, ensuring career readiness and satisfaction.
Final thoughts
Dyslexia presents many challenges, but with the right emotional tools and a supportive environment, students can develop the confidence and resilience they need to succeed. SEL offers a powerful framework to help dyslexic learners manage their emotions, improve relationships, and celebrate their unique strengths.
Here at The Dyslexia Shop, we are dedicated to empowering students and their families, and offer a specially curated selection of educational tools, games and resources that help build academic skills and boost self-confidence.
Want to find out more? Browse our extensive range today or get in touch with our team who will be happy to discuss how we can help support your school.