To help learners identify and talk about their emotions, I use simple check-in activities at the start of the lesson. For example, I ask students to describe how they feel using basic emotion words like happy, sad, or worried. I also think tools like the Blob Tree or an emotions chart would be very useful, as they give students a visual way to express feelings, especially for those who find it hard to explain in words.

To understand learners’ social and emotional needs, I observe their behavior, participation, and interactions with others. I also try to create opportunities for informal conversations so students feel comfortable sharing their experiences. This helps me notice if a student is struggling emotionally or socially.

I have used activities such as group work, class discussions, and simple relaxation techniques like deep breathing to support students’ wellbeing. These activities help students feel calmer, build trust, and improve their relationships with each other.

From this course, I think I could apply more structured SEL strategies, such as regular emotional check-ins, using visual tools like the Wheel of Emotions, and incorporating short physical or relaxation activities into lessons. These techniques would help create a safer and more supportive learning environment, especially for students who may be affected by stress or difficult life situations.