The Social Skills Improvement System Social-Emotional Learning (SSIS SEL) program is a comprehensive and evidence-based program designed to promote the social and emotional development of children and adolescents. Developed by Dr. Stephen Elliott and Dr. Frank Gresham, the program is widely used in educational settings to enhance students' social and emotional skills, ultimately supporting their academic and life success.
Key features and components of the SSIS SEL program include:
- Age-Appropriate: The program is designed to be adaptable for children and adolescents of different age groups, from preschool through high school. It offers age-appropriate materials and interventions.
- Evidence-Based Framework: SSIS SEL is grounded in research and evidence-based practices in the field of social-emotional learning. It draws on the latest research in child development, psychology, and education.
- Comprehensive Assessments: The program begins with comprehensive assessments to evaluate students' social and emotional skills, including self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
- Universal Screening: SSIS SEL includes universal screening tools to identify students who may benefit from additional support in developing social and emotional skills. This screening helps educators target interventions effectively.
- Curriculum and Lessons: The program provides a structured curriculum with lessons and activities designed to target specific social and emotional skills. These lessons are often integrated into classroom instruction.
- Teacher Training: Teachers and educators receive training and resources to effectively implement the SSIS SEL program in their classrooms. Training may cover strategies for fostering a positive classroom climate and teaching social-emotional skills.
- Skill Building: SSIS SEL focuses on teaching a range of social and emotional skills, including empathy, emotion regulation, communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
- Student Engagement: The program includes engaging activities and materials to keep students interested and motivated in learning social-emotional skills.
- Parent and Caregiver Involvement: SSIS SEL encourages parents and caregivers to be actively involved in supporting their child's social and emotional development. Resources and communication tools may be provided to help parents reinforce skills at home.
- Progress Monitoring: The program includes tools for progress monitoring, allowing educators and therapists to assess students' growth in social and emotional skills and make adjustments to interventions as needed.
- Cultural Sensitivity: SSIS SEL is designed to be culturally sensitive and adaptable to the diverse backgrounds and experiences of students and families.
- Positive School Climate: The program promotes the creation of a positive school climate that supports the social and emotional well-being of all students.
- Outcome Measures: SSIS SEL includes measures to assess the program's impact on students' social and emotional skills, behavior, and academic performance.
The SSIS SEL program is recognized for its effectiveness in promoting the social and emotional competence of students, reducing behavior problems, and improving overall school success. By focusing on social-emotional learning, it equips students with essential life skills that contribute to their well-being and success in various aspects of life.
