8.4 SEL Concerns

Educator and author Erin Waters joins Shannon and Mary to discuss supporting the whole child through Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). Erin shares her teaching journey and highlights the crucial connection between SEL & literacy development—because our students aren’t just learning to read; they’re learning who they are. They explore what SEL looks like in real classrooms: morning meetings that build community, read-alouds that spark emotional awareness, and simple coping strategies that help students manage anxiety and stress. The discussion also acknowledges the lasting impact of the digital age and the COVID-19 pandemic on students’ social-emotional well-being, as more children than ever are navigating big feelings.Erin introduces her book Wally Is Worried as a relatable resource for helping children understand and express their emotions. Listeners will walk away with practical tools, recommended texts, and encouragement to make SEL an intentional part of everyday literacy instruction.01:40 Special Guest: Erin Waters on SEL03:06 Defining SEL and Its Importance06:03 Real-World SEL Classroom Experiences11:41 Impact of Digital Age on SEL16:18 Post-COVID SEL Challenges21:43 Coping Mechanisms and Solutions39:16 Final Thoughts and ResourcesRECOMMENDED RESOURCES RELEVANT TO THE EPISODE:Wally is Worried by Erin Waters  *Amazon affiliate linkOur engagement episodeOur technology episodeBook list with SEL topics, curated by Love Grows LearningBig Little Feelings blogNEA (National Education Association):  SEL ResourcesReading Rockets:  Classroom Strategies that Support SELReading with Relevance:   a CASEL-certified SEL supplemental programCASEL.orgCentervention:   95 Social Emotional Learning ActivitiesIntegrating SEL Into Your Reading Block Children's Institute:   SEL Resources and ToolsErin Waters' websiteConnect with Erin via IGSupport the showGet Literacy Support through our PatreonBonus Episodes access through your podcast appBonus episodes access through PatreonBuy us a coffeeGet a FREE Green Chef box using our link