At Bialik, we recognize that learning goes beyond academics. Social-emotional learning (SEL) is an essential part of our students’ development, helping them develop the skills to navigate friendships, handle conflicts, and build a strong sense of community. Over the past few weeks, our staff has had the privilege of working closely with students and teachers to continue supporting SEL in meaningful and engaging ways.
Learning the Art of a Sincere Apology
A recent classroom initiative focused on teaching the importance of apologizing — a critical life skill that we all know can be tricky to navigate. Using the children’s book How to Apologize, by David LaRochelle, students from JK to Grade 3 had rich discussions about what makes an apology meaningful. They talked about acknowledging what happened, how to express genuine remorse, and finding ways to make things right. It was wonderful to see students reflect on their own experiences and consider the ways in which they might offer a sincere apology in the future.
Role-Playing
Our School Social Workers took the lead to help Grade 3 students explore real-life social scenarios through role-playing. These sessions encouraged students to consider multiple perspectives and practise resolving conflicts respectfully and independently, while also knowing that teachers and adults are always there to support them when needed.
A key takeaway from these discussions was the use of three guiding questions:
- Is it safe?
- Is it fun?
- Does it include everyone?
These questions serve as a great framework for students to evaluate their interactions and make positive choices.
Encouraging Leadership
We launched our new Grade 3 Leadership Club to offer students opportunities to take initiative and build leadership skills by planning lunchtime activities for Kindergarten classes. After collaborating to design their own activity, students led a lunchtime session that brought joy to our youngest learners while building their own confidence and sense of responsibility. This initiative reflects our belief that leadership begins with small, meaningful acts of service and care.
How Parents Can Support at Home
Parents play a key role in reinforcing social-emotional learning beyond the classroom. One impactful way to support your children is by asking them, “How did you handle that?” when your child tells you about a conflict or challenge. This approach encourages children to reflect on their own problem-solving skills and builds confidence in their ability to navigate social situations, rather than immediately finding a solution. By providing guidance and validating their feelings rather than stepping in right away, parents can help their children develop resilience and independence.
Continuing the SEL Journey
Social-emotional learning is an ongoing process, both at home and at school, and we will continue to find ways to support our students in developing empathy, resilience and strong interpersonal skills. Whether through storytelling, role-playing or leadership opportunities, we aim to equip our students with the tools they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Our teachers are engaged in this every day, and we know that many parents also reinforce these lessons at home. Together, we are shaping a community where students feel empowered, included and ready to face any challenge with kindness and confidence.