
“In order to be effective, SEL must be equitable. In other words, it must be supportive, affirming, and beneficial for students of all cultures, backgrounds, and identities.”
Each week we explore inclusive books and lessons that align with specific competencies using the CASEL Five. Last week we explored books and lessons that focus on SELF-AWARENESS. This week we look at books and activities that highlight: SOCIAL-AWARENESS–the ability to understand the perspectives of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and contexts. This includes the capacities to feel compassion for others, understand broader historical and social norms for behavior in different settings, and recognize family, school, and community resources and supports.
These engaging books and activities inspire the following skills:
- Taking others’ perspectives
- Recognizing strengths in others
- Demonstrating empathy and compassion
- Showing concern for the feelings of others
- Understanding and expressing gratitude
- Identifying diverse social norms, including unjust ones
- Recognizing situational demands and opportunities
- Understanding the influences of organizations and systems on behavior

When suspicion falls on Eddie, he teams up with his fellow volunteer (and crush), Tessa, to solve the mysteries of Silver Brook.
Eddie Whatever: Free Teaching Guide

Lucy clings to her love of math, which provides the absolute answers she craves. But through budding friendships and an after-school mime class, Lucy discovers that while grief can take many shapes and sadness may feel infinite, love is just as powerful.
AfterMath: Free Teaching Guide

A New Classmate: Free Activity from Read for a Better World

Drive Social-Emotional Learning with Books from Lerner
Browse all SEL books or explore books by category at lernerbooks.com/SEL.
