There’s no doubt about it — cultivating emotional intelligence in students is essential for their overall development. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) lessons from YMI provide an effective framework for fostering this vital skill, helping students navigate their emotions, build resilience, and interact positively with others. In today’s post, we’re exploring a few of our free lesson plans that support emotional intelligence.
Beyond Words with Out of My Mind
Through engaging conversations and activities inspired by Disney’s Out of My Mind, students learn that their voices matter. This teaching kit encourages open dialogue about personal experiences and feelings, reinforcing the notion that everyone has a unique perspective worth sharing. By acknowledging each other’s thoughts, students develop empathy and respect for diverse viewpoints.
Explore Emotions with Inside Out 2
Activities inspired by the film Inside Out 2 take students on an emotional journey, helping them identify and express their feelings. Activities from this teaching kit guide students to brainstorm healthy coping strategies for managing intense emotions. Furthermore, they learn to support peers experiencing emotional challenges, fostering a community built on understanding and compassion.
What You Say Matters. Even Online!
As digital communication becomes increasingly prevalent, it’s crucial to address its impact. In this teaching kit, students explore the pros and cons of social media, strengthening their online safety habits and reinforcing kindness and responsible technology use. Activities in the teaching kit are inspired by the novel Finally Heard by Kelly Yang, but reading the novel isn’t necessary to use the activities
On Our Sleeves: Teaching Children about Mental Health
Finally, discussing mental health is essential for breaking stigmas. These teaching kits, made possible by On Our Sleeves® (now known as The Kids Mental Health Foundation), emphasize the importance of open conversations about mental well-being, allowing students to recognize the value of sharing their thoughts and emotions. Educating children about mental health encourages them to seek support and support others when needed.
Fostering emotional intelligence through SEL lessons equips students with the tools to navigate their feelings and build meaningful relationships. As educators and parents, prioritizing these free lesson plans from YMI can lead to more empathetic, resilient, and emotionally intelligent individuals. We’re honored to provide free educational resources that help create a positive environment for students, where social and emotional learning is at the forefront, setting them up for a lifetime of dynamic learning.