Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) using Toolbox Tools
At Eagle Elementary we are dedicated to supporting students' social and emotional needs. Through Social Emotional Learning (SEL) we help students learn how to notice their feelings and self-regulate in times of stress and crisis. One component of our school wide SEL is the use of Toolbox Tools.
Tools for the Journey, the Toolbox Program
At Eagle Elementary we learn about the TOOLBOX TOOLS. These are TOOLS that reside within all of us. They help us develop strong social and emotional skills and meaningful, satisfying relationships.
The TOOLS are simple, but just like any TOOLS, they require practice. We invite you to support your child in learning and practicing these TOOLS at home by discussing the TOOLBOX TOOLS they are learning in school and using them at home. Be sure to ask your child about the gestures that go with each tool. These coping skills are great for any age!
The 12 Tools
BREATHING TOOL
“I calm myself and check-in”
LISTENING TOOL
“I listen with my ears, eyes, and heart”
PERSONAL SPACE TOOL
“I have a right to my space and so do you”
GARBAGE CAN TOOL
“I let the little things go”
EMPATHY TOOL
“I care for others, I care for myself”
QUIET/SAFE PLACE TOOL
“I remember my quiet/safe place”
PLEASE & THANK YOU TOOL
“I treat others with kindness and appreciation”
APOLOGY & FORGIVENESS TOOL
“I admit my mistakes and work to forgive yours”
USING OUR WORDS TOOL
“I use the “right” words in the “right” way”
TAKING TIME TOOL
“I take time-in and time-away”
PATIENCE TOOL
“I am strong enough to wait”
COURAGE TOOL
“I have the courage to do the ‘right’ thing”
Please ask your student about their tools and how they can use them in everyday situations!
Zones of Regulation
At Eagle Elementary we learn about how to recognize and self-regulate our emotions through Zones of Regulation. The Zones of Regulation is another simple tool that helps support SEL. Each Zone represents different feelings and how those feelings impact our learning. Blue zone is associated with low energy like sadness and boredom; green zone is associated with feeling calm and ready to learn; yellow zone is associated with increased energy like being silly or anxious; and red zone is associated with too much energy like anger and being terrified. Students can learn how to manage feelings in each zone by learning what they need help themselves. Often when we are in blue zone we need something to energize us like some stretching or drinking water, and likewise in yellow/red zone we need some kind of calming strategy like taking deep breaths. Each student is unqiue and is rewarding to watch how each student learns to regulate!!!
If you have questions, please contact me at athey.karynn@westada.org , or visit https://toolboxproject.com/ or https://www.zonesofregulation.com/index.html
Karynn Athey, School Counselor
