Social Emotional Learning: A Foundation for Learning and Recovery
Posted on by Bill Hansen, Development and Communications Manager
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) helps children and adults understand and manage emotions, set goals, show empathy, build relationships, and make responsible decisions. These skills are key to emotional well-being and long-term success. At Horizons at Carolina Day School, SEL strengthens academic learning by helping students develop focus, resilience, and social skills. A child who can manage frustration, work with others, and stay calm is more ready to learn and grow.
SEL becomes even more important after a crisis. Children affected by disasters like Hurricane Helene may feel fear, grief, and anxiety, which can make it hard to learn. SEL supports recovery by helping children express emotions, feel safe again, and reconnect with others.
We have a wonderful partner in Save the Children whose Bridges Program (Building Resilience in Diverse Groups of Engaged Students) combines SEL with academic learning to support children in their return to learning after a disaster. Through the program, students regain a sense of routine and confidence.
Horizons has two dedicated Student and Family Support Specialists, Morgan Adams and Daymón Hinkelman, who lead SEL efforts. Using lessons from the Bridges Program, they guide mindfulness activities, creative expression, and movement to help students manage emotions and build self-awareness. Every class has one to two SEL lessons per week. Morgan and Daymón also check in with individual students who need extra support on tough days.
The Bridges Program also equips teachers with tools to create supportive classrooms and respond to students' emotional needs.
By addressing both academic and emotional recovery, SEL helps children heal, reconnect, and thrive—even after a crisis. At Horizons, it’s how healing and learning move forward together.