What is the best age to build these skills?
It's never too early and never too late! The ideal age to build SEL habits is from 6-12 because this stage is when kids develop key emotional, social, and decision-making skills that shape their future. As kids gain independence and face more complex emotions, SEL helps them understand and regulate their feelings, build resilience, and navigate challenges with confidence. It also strengthens their ability to communicate, resolve conflicts, and develop empathy—skills essential for forming healthy relationships with peers and family.
At this age, children start making more independent choices in school, friendships, and daily life. SEL equips them with the tools to think critically, assess consequences, and make responsible decisions. Research shows that SEL not only improves emotional well-being but also enhances focus, problem-solving, and academic performance. By integrating SEL early, children build a strong foundation of self-awareness, adaptability, and leadership skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Do parents need to be involved?
Parents, caregivers, and mentors play a crucial role in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) because they are a child's first and most influential teachers. When parents actively engage in SEL activities, they model essential skills like emotional regulation, empathy, and effective communication. This creates a supportive environment where children feel safe to express themselves, ask questions, and practice new skills in real-life situations. Parent involvement also strengthens the parent-child bond, reinforcing trust and open dialogue that will be essential as kids grow older.
By integrating SEL at home, parents ensure that lessons learned in school or structured activities are reinforced daily. This consistency helps children develop emotional intelligence, resilience, and decision-making skills more effectively, preparing them for social and academic success.
I'm really busy. Do I have time for this?
We know families are busy! The good news is that building character skills doesn’t have to be another time-consuming task on your to-do list.
Our activities are designed to fit seamlessly into everyday moments, whether it’s a quick conversation at dinner, a car ride chat, or a 5-minute card before bedtime. Investing just a little time now helps your child develop resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills that will make life easier for both of you in the long run. Think of it as a small effort today for a lifetime of benefits.
Who designed your activities?
All our resources and activities have been co-developed with educators, researchers, and psychologists using research-based studies. These activities translate the results from leadership studies into actionable, bite-sized engagement for kids.
After numerous rounds of pilot testing with families and schools, we are confident these activities can be effective in a family setting.
Why is SEL important?
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) equips kids with essential life skills like self-awareness, self-management, social skills, and responsible decision making - competencies that are vital for success in academics, career, and life.
Numerous studies show SEL boosts grades, test scores, attendance, and other academic outcomes by allowing kids to better manage emotions and behaviors for optimal learning. It enhances mental health by developing positive mindsets, coping abilities, and overall psychological well-being. It also fosters better attitudes around motivation, empathy, collaboration, and civic engagement.
Perhaps most importantly, SEL prepares kids for the future by providing invaluable social-emotional tools for forming healthy relationships and thriving in careers.
What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is a research-backed approach to developing key life skills like self-awareness, emotional regulation, communication, and decision-making. It equips children with the tools to navigate challenges, build meaningful relationships, and develop resilience—foundational traits of strong leaders. By translating behavioral science into actionable, bite-sized activities, SEL helps parents and educators nurture emotional intelligence in a way that feels engaging and practical for kids.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Drop us a note at support@lifebeyondschool.co – we'd love to hear from you!