Recent educational research shows that "soft skills" are just as important as academic skills in school-age children. Although math, spelling, and reading are important, so are soft skills such as making friends, problem-solving, managing strong emotions, and developing empathy. The process of learning these skills is referred to as Social-Emotional Learning (SEL).
For Y5-1st grade students, one of the most effective ways to learn these soft skills is through bibliotherapy, or the use of books as a means to practice these skills. My project will focus on using picture books to teach a variety of skills, such as friendship, coping strategies, empathy, and conflict resolution.
As a school social worker, it is my hope to use these books and teach meaningful skills in individual sessions, small groups, and whole classroom lessons. Not only will these skills enhance the educational opportunities of our students, but they will also help in making our school and community a more caring and compassionate place!
About my class
Recent educational research shows that "soft skills" are just as important as academic skills in school-age children. Although math, spelling, and reading are important, so are soft skills such as making friends, problem-solving, managing strong emotions, and developing empathy. The process of learning these skills is referred to as Social-Emotional Learning (SEL).
For Y5-1st grade students, one of the most effective ways to learn these soft skills is through bibliotherapy, or the use of books as a means to practice these skills. My project will focus on using picture books to teach a variety of skills, such as friendship, coping strategies, empathy, and conflict resolution.
As a school social worker, it is my hope to use these books and teach meaningful skills in individual sessions, small groups, and whole classroom lessons. Not only will these skills enhance the educational opportunities of our students, but they will also help in making our school and community a more caring and compassionate place!
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