SEL Roots in Sports, Recess, and PE

Hello Gardeners!

Gym class and recess aren’t just great opportunities to get fresh air, some exercise, and take a much needed break from academic learning. As we’ve said before, exercise can do wonders for decreasing stress, clearing the mind, and getting the endorphins flowing - but PE, recess, and team sports also organically foster social and emotional learning (SEL). Let’s take a closer look!

Team activities and games require focus & observation, teamwork, emotional regulation, and the ability to overcome obstacles - all key elements to developing social & emotional literacy.

Tug-of-war is a great example of working together, rather than as an individual to achieve a goal!

Focus & Observation

Individuals are required to take a step back and look at the whole scene - where their teammates are and where they should be in relation to their teammates, what strategy can be used based on what's going on, etc.

Teamwork

As the saying goes, “there’s no I in team!” We learn to share space, take turns, and work together to succeed!