Choosing the Right Social Emotional Learning Curriculum: A Comprehensive Guide

Over the past two decades, the importance of social and emotional skills for the development of young people and adults has become widely recognized by educators, researchers, policymakers, and caregivers alike. This consensus has fueled the rapid growth of the field of social-emotional learning (SEL), leading to a wealth of approaches, resources, research, and tools aimed at understanding, developing, and measuring students’ social, emotional, and interpersonal skills.

Social Emotional Learning Curriculum providers play a crucial role in this landscape by offering comprehensive, evidence-based programs designed to foster positive social, emotional, and academic outcomes for students. However, the sheer number of available options can be overwhelming, making it challenging to determine the most suitable curriculum providers or programs. Questions arise: What are the different types of SEL curricula? Which grade levels are they best suited for? And what factors should be considered when evaluating these programs?

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the social emotional learning curriculum landscape. We will explore the essential criteria for evaluating curriculum providers and present a curated list of over 20 leading SEL programs and tools for K-12 education.

Download Now: Panorama’s Social-Emotional Learning Assessment

Understanding Social Emotional Learning and Its Importance

Social-emotional learning (SEL) encompasses the mindsets, skills, attitudes, and feelings that empower students to thrive in school, navigate their careers, and lead fulfilling lives. At its core, SEL addresses students’ fundamental needs for motivation, social connection, and self-regulation, recognizing these as essential prerequisites for effective learning. Educators often refer to SEL using various terms, including “non-cognitive skills,” “interpersonal skills,” “soft skills,” “21st century skills,” “character strengths,” and “whole child development.” Regardless of the terminology, the focus remains on nurturing the holistic development of students.

The Importance of SEL in Education

Social-emotional learning is not merely an add-on; it is an integral component of a well-rounded education. Extensive research underscores the strong link between SEL and academic success. Investing in social and emotional learning is an investment in students’ overall well-being and their capacity to achieve their full potential.

Research-Backed Benefits of SEL Curricula and Programs

The evidence supporting the effectiveness of SEL curricula and programs is compelling:

• A meta-analysis of 213 controlled studies demonstrated that high-quality, evidence-based social and emotional learning programs yield a wide array of positive student outcomes. These benefits range from improved attitudes towards learning and reduced behavioral problems to enhanced academic performance (Durlak et al., 2011). This robust research highlights the significant impact that well-implemented SEL programs can have on students’ lives.

• SEL programs have consistently been identified as one of the most effective interventions that school districts and individual schools can implement to promote positive youth development and boost academic achievement across K-12 student populations. The widespread applicability and positive outcomes make SEL programs a valuable tool for educators.

• Economic analyses further reinforce the value of SEL investments. A review of six evidence-based SEL interventions revealed a remarkable return on investment: for every $1 invested in SEL programming, there was an average economic return of $11. This substantial return underscores not only the educational but also the economic benefits of prioritizing social and emotional learning.

Social-Emotional Learning: From Assessment to Action

Effective social emotional learning curriculum programs are designed to cultivate core competencies that are essential for students’ success. These competencies typically include:

• Self-Awareness: Understanding one’s own emotions, strengths, and weaknesses.
• Self-Management: Managing emotions effectively, setting goals, and practicing self-discipline.
• Social Awareness: Showing empathy, understanding diverse perspectives, and respecting others.
• Relationship Skills: Building and maintaining healthy relationships, communicating effectively, and collaborating with others.
• Responsible Decision-Making: Making ethical choices, considering consequences, and solving problems constructively.

Some SEL curricula place a greater emphasis on developing explicit SEL skills, such as emotion regulation techniques, while others focus on fostering specific mindsets or character traits that contribute to social and emotional well-being.

When combined with a valid and reliable assessment to measure students’ social-emotional learning skills, SEL curricula become even more powerful. This data-driven approach enables districts to gain valuable insights into student needs and tailor their SEL initiatives accordingly. Moreover, assessments allow for the measurement of program impact, ensuring continuous improvement and informed decision-making. Research indicates that using data-driven insights to guide the implementation and refinement of SEL curriculum is linked to positive changes in students’ perceptions of school climate, sense of belonging, and self-efficacy. This cyclical process of assessment, implementation, and refinement is key to maximizing the benefits of SEL initiatives.

[Source: Panorama Education]

Types of Social Emotional Learning Curriculum Programs

The landscape of social emotional learning curriculum programs is diverse, offering a range of approaches to meet the unique needs of different schools and districts. These programs can be broadly categorized into lesson-based in-school or after-school programs, non-curricular approaches, and adult SEL programs and tools.

Lesson-Based, In-School or After School SEL Programs

These programs typically involve structured lessons and activities that are integrated into the school day or offered as after-school enrichment. They often follow a curriculum framework and provide explicit instruction on social and emotional skills.

Non-Curricular Approaches to SEL

This category encompasses programs that embed SEL principles and practices into the broader school environment and culture, rather than relying solely on standalone lessons. These approaches may focus on classroom management techniques, school-wide initiatives, or integrating SEL into existing academic subjects.

Adult SEL Programs and Tools

Recognizing that adults also play a crucial role in fostering students’ social and emotional development, a growing number of programs and tools are designed to support educators’ and caregivers’ own SEL skills and well-being. These programs aim to enhance adults’ capacity to model and teach SEL effectively.

Key Considerations When Evaluating an SEL Curriculum

Choosing the right social emotional learning curriculum is a significant decision. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, as the ideal program will depend on the specific context of each school, classroom, and community. Factors such as student demographics, school culture, and available resources all play a role in determining the best fit. An elementary school in a suburban setting will likely have different needs and priorities than a middle school in a large urban center.

Furthermore, SEL curricula vary widely in their approaches and delivery methods. Some programs prioritize character development, while others concentrate on building core competencies like social awareness and self-management. Program formats range from game-based and movement-based activities to project-based learning. Some curricula are designed for K-12 implementation, while others are tailored to specific age groups. Flexibility and customization options also differ across programs. The shift to hybrid and remote learning models has further broadened the landscape, with many SEL curriculum providers adapting their content for virtual delivery.

Navigating this diverse landscape can be daunting for decision-makers. Fortunately, research from organizations like CASEL and the EASEL Lab at Harvard University offers valuable guidance. Their findings highlight key factors that contribute to the effectiveness of SEL programs. By considering the following guidelines, educators and administrators can make informed decisions and select SEL programs that are well-suited to their learners’ needs.

1. Understand the Distinction Between “Research-Based” and “Evidence-Based” Programs: While the terms “research-based” and “evidence-based” are often used interchangeably in discussions about social emotional learning curriculum, there is a critical difference between them. A curriculum that is “research-based” is developed and informed by relevant theories and empirical research in the field of social and emotional learning. This means that the program’s design and content are grounded in established knowledge about how social and emotional skills develop and how they can be effectively taught.

   In contrast, an “evidence-based” program goes a step further. It has undergone rigorous evaluation studies, conducted by independent researchers who are not affiliated with the program developers and do not stand to profit from positive outcomes. These studies aim to determine the program’s efficacy and provide evidence to support claims of positive impacts on student behavior and/or academic performance. Evidence-based programs have demonstrated their effectiveness through empirical data collected in real-world settings. When evaluating social emotional learning curriculum, prioritizing evidence-based programs is crucial, as they offer a higher level of assurance of positive outcomes.

2. Recognize the Importance of Context and Environments: Effective social emotional learning curriculum extends beyond simply targeting specific SEL skills in isolation. It acknowledges that children’s social and emotional development is profoundly shaped by the broader community context in which they live, learn, and grow. Therefore, it is essential to consider whether curriculum providers take into account these diverse environments and contexts when designing their lesson plans and program materials.

   A high-quality social emotional learning curriculum should be culturally responsive and adaptable to different community contexts. It should consider factors such as socioeconomic backgrounds, cultural norms, and community strengths and challenges. Furthermore, effective programs recognize the crucial role of caregivers and community-serving organizations in supporting children’s social and emotional development. Inquire about how SEL curriculum providers involve these key stakeholders in their programming. Do they offer resources or strategies for engaging families and community partners? Programs that foster strong school-family-community partnerships are more likely to create a cohesive and supportive ecosystem for students’ social and emotional growth.

3. Look for Programs with a Variety of Instructional Methods: Recognizing that students have diverse learning styles and preferences is fundamental to effective social emotional learning curriculum design. A robust SEL program should employ a range of instructional methods to cater to these varied needs and provide students with multiple opportunities to practice and internalize SEL skills. Variety in instructional approaches keeps students engaged, promotes deeper learning, and ensures that the curriculum is accessible to all learners.

   Common instructional practices found in leading social emotional learning programs include:

   • Didactic Instruction: Direct teaching of SEL concepts and skills through explicit explanations and discussions.
   • Storytelling: Using stories to illustrate SEL concepts, model desired behaviors, and promote empathy.
   • SEL Handouts or Printouts: Providing students with tangible resources that reinforce learning and offer tools for skill practice.
   • Writing Exercises: Engaging students in reflective writing activities that promote self-awareness and SEL skill application.
   • Small Group SEL Lessons: Facilitating collaborative learning and peer interaction through small group activities.
   • Culturally Responsive Lesson Plans: Adapting lesson content and delivery methods to be relevant and respectful of students’ diverse cultural backgrounds.
   • Drawing Activities: Using visual expression as a tool for exploring emotions and SEL concepts.
   • Song and Dance: Incorporating music and movement to make learning engaging and memorable.
   • Video-Based Exercises: Utilizing videos to present scenarios, model skills, and spark discussions.
   • Skill Practice: Providing ample opportunities for students to practice SEL skills in a safe and supportive environment.
   • Role Play: Using role-playing activities to simulate real-life situations and allow students to practice applying SEL skills in context.
   • Kinesthetic Activities: Incorporating movement and physical activity into lessons to enhance engagement and learning.

   When evaluating social emotional learning curriculum, inquire about the variety of instructional methods employed. Programs that offer a diverse toolkit of teaching strategies are better equipped to meet the needs of all learners and create a dynamic and engaging learning experience.

4. Consider Implementation Supports: The quality of a social emotional learning curriculum is only one piece of the puzzle. Effective implementation is equally critical to achieving positive outcomes. Therefore, when exploring an organization’s approach to SEL programming, it is essential to understand the types of supports they offer to ensure successful implementation. Inquire about the initial training, ongoing support, and professional development opportunities provided to educators and school staff.

   Comprehensive implementation support may include:

   • Initial Training: In-depth training for educators on the curriculum’s content, pedagogy, and implementation strategies.
   • Ongoing Support: Access to resources, coaching, or technical assistance to address challenges and ensure fidelity of implementation over time.
   • Professional Development: Opportunities for educators to deepen their SEL knowledge, refine their teaching skills, and stay abreast of best practices in the field.

   Programs that prioritize implementation support demonstrate a commitment to long-term success and recognize that effective SEL integration requires ongoing investment in educators’ capacity. Choose a social emotional learning curriculum provider that offers robust support to ensure that your program is implemented effectively and sustainably.

5. Identify Programs that Target Key Social-Emotional Skills Across Multiple Domains and Support Adult Competencies: A comprehensive social emotional learning curriculum should address a range of key social-emotional skills, recognizing that these skills are interconnected and contribute to holistic development. Look for programs that target skills across multiple domains of development, such as:

   • Executive Functioning Skills: Skills related to self-regulation, planning, organization, and cognitive flexibility.
   • Social and Interpersonal Skills: Skills related to communication, collaboration, empathy, and relationship building.
   • Emotion Regulation Skills: Skills related to identifying, understanding, and managing emotions effectively.

   Furthermore, leading programs recognize that adult SEL competencies are equally important. Educators who possess strong social and emotional skills are better equipped to create supportive learning environments, model positive behaviors, and teach SEL effectively to their students. Therefore, prioritize social emotional learning curriculum programs that include practices and resources for building adult capacity alongside pedagogical guidance for student instruction. Programs that invest in both student and adult SEL are more likely to create a thriving school community where social and emotional well-being is valued and nurtured for all.

Leading SEL Curriculum Providers and Programs

To help navigate the landscape of social emotional learning curriculum options, we have compiled a list of over 20 leading SEL programs and tools for K-12 education. This list is categorized into lesson-based programs, non-curricular approaches, and adult SEL programs, reflecting the diverse range of options available.

Lesson-Based, In-School or After School SEL Programs

Provider Name	Grade Levels	Evidence of Effectiveness	Area(s) of Focus	Panorama Playbook Partner?
Caring School Community	K-8	Multiple randomized control trials and quasi-experimental studies	Building empathy; setting classroom norms; fostering community; positive goal setting	No
CharacterStrong	K-12	Inclusion of evidence-based implementation strategies; inclusion of evidence-based best practices	Whole child development (self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, responsible decision-making); character development (patience, kindness, honesty, selflessness, humility, forgiveness, commitment)	Yes
EduMotion	K-12	Explicit evidence-based SEL instruction	Age-differentiated SEL lessons aligned to CASEL’s framework; movement-based activities; culturally responsive pedagogy; family engagement	Yes
Habitudes (by Growing Leaders)	6-12	Inclusion of evidence-based best practices; qualitative case studies	Leadership and character development; image-based curriculum; critical thinking skills, college and career readiness	Yes
Lions Quest	K-12	Randomized control trials and qualitative interview studies	Drug and bullying prevention; character education; service learning; positive relationships	No
Move This World	K-12	Inclusion of evidence-based best practices	Interactive video- and movement-based SEL; relationship building; culture of safety and support; student engagement	Yes
Open Circle	K-5	One quasi-experimental study; one non-experimental study	Emotion labeling and regulation; positive school culture and climate; integration into literacy; problem solving skills	Yes
PATHS	K-6	Multiple randomized control studies	Reducing aggression and behavior problems through social-emotional development; self-control; goal setting; empathy; organizational and study skills	No
Peekapak	K-12	Inclusion of evidence-based best practices	Integrating SEL into ELA; personalized learning; game-based learning	Yes
Positive Action	K-12	Multiple randomized control trials	Self-concept; mind-body connection; self-honesty; continual self-improvement; conflict resolution	Yes
QuaverSEL	K-5	Inclusion of research-based and evidence-based best practices	Creating a culture of caring; music-based SEL; personalized learning; positive relationships between teachers and students	Yes
Respectful Ways	K-12	One independent research study and ongoing assessments. Research-based and evidence-based best practices throughout curriculum.	Exclusive partnership with the Attachment and Trauma Network, who vet all written and digital materials as trauma-informed. Digital access includes at-home student versions for virtual use on any device. Curriculum includes hundreds of original poems and songs.	Yes
RULER	K-12	One randomized control trial and one quasi-experimental study	Emotional intelligence; labeling emotions; expressing emotions appropriately; regulating emotions effectively	No
Second Step	K-8	Multiple randomized control trials and quasi-experimental studies	Curriculum delivering skills to help students build SEL competencies; game-based learning; emotion regulation; problem-solving skills; responsible decision-making; music- and story-based activities	Yes
WINGS for Kids	K-5	Multiple quasi-experimental and randomized control trials	After school program; healthy relationships; positive behavior; self-awareness; social awareness; self-management; implicit and explicit teaching by weaving SEL into the program time	Yes

Non-Curricular Approaches to SEL

Provider Name	Grade Levels	Evidence of Effectiveness	Area(s) of Focus	Panorama Playbook Partner
Better Kids	K-3	Randomized control study	Social-emotional learning through play; game-based learning; personalized learning; creativity through play; responsible decision-making skills	Yes
Conscious Discipline	K-12	Multiple experimental studies	Organizational approach to schoolwide, systemic SEL; classroom management; teaching practices to promote SEL, resiliency, and self-regulation; trauma-informed care	Yes
Inner Explorer	K-12	Formatted on an evidence-based protocol (MBSR); multiple randomized control trials	Daily mindfulness practice; emotion regulation; stress management; compassion; social-emotional competencies	Yes
Playworks	K-12	Multiple randomized control trials	Physical wellness; social and emotional growth; play-based learning; integrating SEL into recess; health and fitness	Yes
Responsive Classroom	K-8	Multiple quasi-experimental and randomized control trials	Interactive modeling and learning structures; classroom management; educational environment; social and emotional competencies; academic mindset; perseverance	No

Adult SEL Programs and Tools

Provider Name	Grade Levels	Evidence of Effectiveness	Area(s) of Focus	Panorama Playbook Partner
CREATE	Adults	Multiple randomized trials	Cultivating awareness and resilience in educators; social and emotional functioning; mindfulness; mental well-being; nurturing healthy, caring school communities	Yes
Move This World	Adults	Format rooted in evidence-based theories of positive psychology and expressive arts therapy	Visioning Labs series are designed to emotionally sustain and support staff. Enrichment Workshops enhance buy-in for SEL and implementation of Move This World’s SEL programs	Yes

Panorama Education and Social Emotional Learning Curricula

Panorama Education is dedicated to supporting K-12 schools and districts nationwide by providing tools to collect and analyze data related to social-emotional learning, school climate, family engagement, and other critical areas.

For districts and schools utilizing Panorama’s SEL measurement platform, a valuable resource is readily available: access to evidence-based content and curriculum from leading social emotional learning curriculum programs through Panorama’s Playbook.

Playbook – Growth Mindset Page

Playbook, accessible at https://go.panoramaed.com/hubfs/playbook-intro.pdf, serves as an online professional learning library. It is designed to equip teachers and school leaders with practical strategies and interventions aimed at fostering a positive school culture and seamlessly integrating SEL into K-12 classrooms. A key feature of Playbook is its alignment: every resource within the library corresponds to topics covered in Panorama’s SEL assessment. This deliberate alignment facilitates a smooth transition for educators, enabling them to move directly from data-driven insights to implementing targeted social-emotional learning activities within their classrooms and schools. Playbook empowers educators to take actionable steps based on SEL data, fostering a more supportive and enriching learning environment for students.

Explore the complete list of Panorama’s SEL Curriculum Partners.

Conclusion: Investing in Students’ Social and Emotional Well-being

Choosing the right social emotional learning curriculum is a critical investment in the holistic development of students. By prioritizing evidence-based programs, considering the unique context of their schools and communities, and focusing on comprehensive implementation support, educators and administrators can empower students with the social and emotional skills they need to thrive. Social emotional learning is not just about improving academic outcomes; it is about nurturing well-rounded individuals who are equipped to navigate the complexities of life, build meaningful relationships, and contribute positively to their communities. By making SEL a strategic priority, schools can create learning environments where all students feel supported, engaged, and empowered to reach their full potential.