Many educators have heard the buzz about social-emotional learning (SEL). Sometimes the myth is that this learning approach is all about “me,” which in turn helps students focus on their own feelings, success, or growth. But as Christian educators, we know that’s not the full picture.
Biblical SEL is God-Centered
When we approach SEL through a biblical lens, our goal isn’t self-absorption. Rather, it is to help students grow in character, compassion, and Christ-like love. It’s about teaching them to listen well, consider others’ needs, rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. SEL becomes less about learning about feelings for their own sake and more about reflecting Christ in every relationship.
In his book Growing With One Another: Social AND Emotional Learning in Christian Perspective, Dr. Tyler Groves provides a clear roadmap for this approach. He shows how God-centered SEL can transform classrooms, relationships, and learning. By rooting SEL in Scripture, students not only develop emotional awareness but also learn to live generously, honor one another, and grow in Christ-like character.
The truth is simple: Biblical SEL isn’t a curriculum to check off. It’s a way of living and teaching every day. It’s modeling care, patience, and grace, and helping students reflect the image of God in everything they do.
For teachers looking to build God-centered SEL into their classrooms, start where you are: live out Scripture, model emotional awareness, and invest in students’ hearts — highs and lows included. And if you are ready to embrace biblical SEL, here are three easy steps: