For Children

Emotional Literacy in Education from Yale University

For children, school is an emotional cauldron: a constant stream of academic and social challenges that can generate feelings ranging from loneliness to euphoria. Educators and parents have long assumed that a child’s ability to cope with such stresses is either innate — a matter of temperament — or else acquired “along the way,” in the rough and tumble of ordinary interaction. But in practice, many children never develop those crucial skills.

Now, the research is clear: emotional learning is a critical component of the educational experience. In order for students to reach their full potential in school and in life, schools must provide instruction on academics and emotional skills. In short, they must teach the whole student if they want to see healthier school climates and improved academic results. And thanks to clinical research, we now have the evidence that Emotional Literacy really works!

When provided with the right skills and strategies, educators and students have the power to leverage their emotions to make healthy decisions, strengthen relationships and achieve desired academic and professional outcomes.

Scientific studies of high-quality Emotional Literacy programs have revealed the positive impact these curriculums can have on school success. Data from more than 270,000 students was collected for a large-scale study of universal, school-based programs in the US. In that study, students showed an 11% gain in academic achievement -- a significant improvement!

In addition, studies show:

• Emotional Literacy program students were more likely to attend school, were less likely to have conduct problems, and received better grades.
• Emotional Literacy is also associated with significant improvements in students’ academic performance and attitudes toward school.
• Emotional Literacy students feel more connected and attached to their schools.
• Emotional Literacy programming can significantly improve students' skills, attitudes, and behaviour.
• Emotional Literacy programs effectively reduced student high-risk behaviour such as delinquency, substance abuse, and school dropout.
• Emotional Literacy prepares young people for success in adulthood.

Emotional Literacy in Schools:

Students typically receive Emotional Literacy through a specific Emotional Literacy program delivered at school. The program teaches students to:

• handle emotions well
• relax and focus on learning
• avoid negative behaviour
• make positive decisions
• solve problems cooperatively
• understand others
• practice empathy and caring

In summary, Emotional Literacy programs help students develop strong, positive relationships with both peers and adults. And since children learn more effectively from people they care about, Emotional Literacy can have a direct impact on academic engagement!