Building Blocks: SEL family activities to try at home

At Lincoln Public Schools, we know students with strong social and emotional skills thrive. They succeed academically, personally and relationally. We use the Social Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum Second Step to teach these life skills to students in grades Pre-K through seventh.

Our SEL lessons are a collaboration between students, their families and educators. You can help us reinforce and build upon the lessons we teach at school by participating in these activities at home with your child.

This semester, your student is learning about empathy, kindness and problem-solving.

Partner with us to help your child excel by trying these activities with your family:

• When accidents occur at home, take time to apologize and encourage your child to do the same, using the new phrases they learned at school.

• Let your child see you taking a moment to feel calm at home when things are busy or stress- ful. For example, say, “Today was a really busy day. I’m going to take a few slow breaths to help me feel calm.” Invite your child to join you.

• Ask your child what member of their school community they had empathy for and what kind act they chose to do for that person.

• Ask your child what questions they can ask to find out how someone feels and what they may want or need. Discuss how checking in on someone’s feelings is a great way to show you care about them.

Visit our SEL website at https:// home.lps.org/sel/ and discover more family activities and grade-specific lessons.