Social Emotional Learning
Responsibility, Relationships and Risk
One of the many benefits of emphasizing playful learning and purposeful play is the copious opportunities to practice social emotional skills. Students cooperate and collaborate throughout the day, both in the classroom and on the playground. They negotiate and solve problems while playing math games and while constructing networks of canals on the playground. They practice regulating their emotions and being effective members of their classroom communities every day during their morning meetings. Students apply the SEL skills they learn about in class all the time and all across the curriculum. These organic opportunities to utilize SEL skills are invaluable.
Valley teachers are trained in Responsive Classroom, which is a student-centered social and emotional learning approach to teaching and classroom management. Composed of a set of research and evidence-based practices, Responsive Classroom emphasizes developmentally appropriate skill development in problem solving, conflict resolution, self-reflection, and empathy.
Focus areas for lower school include: emotions, self-regulation, giving clear messages, friendship skills and problem solving. In the upper school, there is increased emphasis on problem solving, conflict resolution and mindfulness. Communication strategies are strengthened. Students manage emotions and behavior with increased confidence and independence using a wide range of activities and tools. Self-reflection, empathy and goal setting are also core areas for our older students as they become school leaders.