Dancing with Class Blog
Social Emotional Learning & The Magic of Dance Part I
Social Emotional Learning & The Magic of Dance – Part I
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is not just a buzz phrase here at Dancing with Class. In fact SEL is an important intervention that contributes to a person’s cognitive development and mental health from childhood into adulthood.
In this 4-part series, we will define Social Emotional Learning, examine the importance of developing emotional skills from childhood into adulthood, explore the importance of developing pro-social skills alongside emotional skills, and last but not least reveal why dance is one of the most powerful tools for learning and practicing social and emotional skills at any age.
What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)?
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is a process in which children and adults obtain and effectively apply skills relating to being aware of and regulating their emotions. It also involves developing empathy towards others and establishing/maintaining healthy relationships with others.
SEL is just one of many important interventions taught to children to promote well-being as well as academic success. Classrooms, family households, after-school programs, dance and recreation programs, and many other types of community engagement use SEL.
What specifically goes into Social Emotional Learning?
Two Components: Emotional Competency Skills and Relational/Prosocial Skills
Within emotional competency skills:
Self-awareness- Understanding our own emotions
Self-management- Regulating our emotions and behaviors
Social awareness- Understanding other’s emotions/having empathy
Within relational/prosocial skills:
Social problem solving- Cooperating with others and making responsible choices based off of social interactions and our own morals
Relationship skills- Establishing and maintaining healthy relationships
CONTINUE TO PART II: The next part of this series delves deeper into defining emotional competency skills and examine the importance of developing emotional skills from childhood into adulthood.
Partner dancing intuitively teaches social emotional learning skills, and it’s fun too! Check out Dancing with Class for more information on our innovative approach to SEL.
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