“How SEL Supports Student Literacy, PreK–Fifth Grade” is the second in a series of briefs published by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) on the crucial role of social and emotional learning (SEL) in supporting children’s early literacy development. This brief builds on the series’ first piece exploring how social-emotional development and well-being are integral to the teaching and learning of literacy practices.
The recent 2024 NAEP scores inspire hope in states that are making academic gains in reading, and it creates significant concern around the widening achievement gap among 4th and 8th grade low-income students. We must do more to bolster student achievement through a comprehensive approach to literacy development. Research shows a strong relationship between SEL and literacy outcomes, demonstrating that it is imperative to build on foundational reading skills with the integration of SEL to enhance student literacy.
Other publications by CASEL and leading researchers about literacy:
