Emotional poverty has become a deterrent to academic success. Research shows that almost half the nation's children have experienced trauma, which has a profoundly negative impact on their behaviors, relationships, learning, and/or mental wellness. Educators must have a basic understanding of the social-emotional needs of wounded children in order to reach them, teach them, and position them for transformation through education. Additionally, a comprehensive approach to SEL that includes understanding the impact of personal and/or secondary trauma on educators is paramount to creating healthy cultures where adults and children alike can thrive.

This is a 2 ½ minute video describing a quick mindfulness activity (Breath Awareness) educators can do on their own or with their students to create a calm, balanced state of mind, conducive for teaching and learning.

How to use sensory engagement techniques to enhance learning and engagement and why such techniques might offer us all support with our wellbeing during challenging times.

Now more than ever, early childhood educators are being called to serve children and families using new and unprecedented strategies. This short video gives tips and ideas on how to use empathy to support the families and children in your care, along with implementing self-care.

When considering online teaching and learning, it is easy to simply worry about the content. However, we will serve our students best and create conditions for success when we consider their social and emotional needs as well. This video shares three key considerations: the tools we choose and how we teach students to interact with them; instructing synchronously, asynchronously, and with office hours; as well as slowing the flow of content and information. Our students are braving an entirely new educational experience, and it is crucial to support their social, emotional, and academic needs

The Corona Virus has meant that for some students, friendships and social interaction have dwindled and friendship groupings will likely be affected now, and on return to education. Here are some quick ideas how you can support students to maintain social interaction and friendships.