Throughout the next five blogs, you’ll explore the five Biblical Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) competencies and how they can transform your classroom culture. Today, we begin with Self-Awareness—a crucial skill for emotional and spiritual growth.
Self-awareness isn’t just about recognizing emotions; it’s about understanding who we are in Christ. When students grasp their identity in Him, they develop the confidence to face challenges, the integrity to make wise choices, and the resilience to grow. But self-awareness also plays a critical role in emotional regulation. When students can identify what they’re feeling, they are better equipped to manage those emotions instead of being controlled by them.
Without this skill, frustration can lead to outbursts, sadness can turn into isolation, and anxiety can prevent learning. Teaching students to identify and regulate their emotions gives them the tools to respond to life’s ups and downs with wisdom and faith. As a teacher, you have the incredible opportunity to guide students in:
Identifying and managing their emotions in healthy ways.
Embracing a growth mindset rooted in God’s plan for their lives.
Demonstrating honesty and integrity in their words and actions.
Trusting in their God-given ability to overcome obstacles.
Practical Ways to Build Self-Awareness in Your Classroom
Mindful Minutes – Begin or end your class with 1-2 minutes of deep breathing or guided reflection. Invite students to recognize their emotions and center their thoughts on God’s presence. Need inspiration? Download our Mindful Minute Slides for simple, effective prompts!
Zones of Regulation – Help students name and navigate their emotions using a color-coded chart. Whether at the start of the day or during moments of frustration, this tool encourages self-reflection and emotional growth.
Scripture Connection
One of the best ways to help students understand self-awareness is by pointing them to God’s truth. Psalm 139:23-24 is a powerful verse to guide this process:
"Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
This verse reminds students that God knows them intimately and helps them recognize areas where they need His guidance and strength.
As you integrate Biblical SEL into your teaching, you’ll foster a classroom where students grow not only academically but also spiritually—learning to see themselves and others through the lens of God’s love.
Stay tuned for the next blog as we continue this journey through the five Biblical SEL competencies!
If you want to learn more about Biblical SEL check out our webinar with Dr. Tyler Groves!