The Importance of Social Emotional Learning with Jess Grace

As we are in the final push of the school year, it’s a good time to check in with others and their mental wellness after the pandemic trauma of the last two years. Students, parents, and teachers have all felt the mental and emotional drain, and the toll on learning has been enormous. Social skills and emotions have EVERYTHING to do with how a student learns, and today’s guest is a proven expert. Ironically, the day of recording for this episode is Social Emotional Learning Day, so our topic today is very timely. Join us to learn more!Jess Grace, aka “Miss Jess,” is a Social Emotional learning consultant and the founder of Social and Kind. She has worked with kids ages 2-25 for over 20 years in many different environments, working with kids with autism and developmental delays. Her work in schools as a speech language pathology assistant showed her the need in helping kids learn social skills and communication. After moving back to southern California, she decided to focus her work on social groups, helping kids of all ages  stock their toolbox with skills to defeat their worries and find their superpowers. Her practice includes facilitating social groups after school and on weekends, supporting kids in schools, and training teachers to best support their students. She is also a yoga and mindfulness teacher, which serves her well in the work she does with students. Show Highlights:Why emotions are tied into every part of a student’s educationThe basis for the social emotional curriculum that Jess implements: kindness, bravery, resilience, and inclusionHow social emotional learning is an umbrella that covers feelings, acceptance, tolerance, empathy, and compassionHow building tolerance and inclusion in kids at an early age helps them develop empathyHow Jess works to challenge teachers and parents to look at kids’ behavior and challenges through a different lensHow Jess works with students in practical ways to help them build self-esteem and confidence through positive affirmations, breathwork, tools, etc.Why kids-and their teachers-need to learn resilience and flexibilityThank you for listening!  Links/Resources:Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, then please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concernsFacebookInstagram–We are doing videos on Instagram, so connect with us there and send us your questions!TwitterIEP websiteThis podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.Connect with Jess: www.socialandkind.com and Instagram