At Friends School Haverford (FSH), social-emotional learning is woven into the rhythm of each day. It’s reflected in the way students are encouraged to express themselves, care for one another, and work through challenges with support and reflection. From the earliest grades through middle school, these practices help children grow in both heart and mind.
Why SEL Matters More Than Ever
Children today are growing up in a world that moves quickly. With busy schedules, digital distractions, and ever-changing social dynamics, it’s more important than ever to help them slow down, tune in, and connect, both with themselves and with others.
Academic success is just one part of a child’s development. Equally essential are the skills that help them navigate everyday challenges with empathy and confidence. SEL nurtures these abilities by teaching children how to identify emotions, communicate clearly, manage conflict, and build strong, respectful relationships.
When social-emotional learning is integrated into the school day, children not only feel safer and more connected - they’re also more engaged, more resilient, and better prepared to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
A Closer Look at SEL at Friends School Haverford
Walk into a classroom at FSH and you’ll likely see young children practicing something many adults still find difficult: naming their feelings.
Teachers use a variety of tools to support this work, including facial expression cards and group discussions. One foundational program used across the school is the Zones of Regulation, a framework developed by occupational therapist Leah Kuypers. It helps children recognize and categorize their emotional states using four simple color zones, blue, green, yellow, and red, and teaches them how to respond appropriately.
At FSH, SEL also means slowing down to pause and reflect. Students don’t just move on from conflict; they process it. Teachers guide students through peaceful conflict resolution and help them learn how to repair relationships, navigate disagreements, and understand the impact of their actions.
Rooted in Quaker Values
The Friends (Quaker) tradition has long emphasized the importance of inner reflection, integrity, and community. These values align naturally with SEL and are a driving force behind how FSH integrates emotional learning into academics, play, and school culture.
Students are encouraged to "seek the Light" in one another, a Quaker concept that reinforces empathy, respect, and connection. In this environment, children feel safe to express their feelings, take risks, and grow from mistakes.
Why It Matters
At Friends School Haverford, SEL is part of the daily rhythm. Through reflection, respectful communication, and conflict resolution, students build the skills they need to understand themselves and others, setting the foundation to thrive in school and beyond.
Social-emotional learning isn’t a side lesson, it’s a core part of helping children grow into confident, compassionate, and capable people. Research from the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) shows that a strong SEL foundation not only supports mental health and behavioral challenges, it also plays a significant role in improving academic outcomes. When children feel safe, connected, and confident in managing their emotions, they’re more engaged in learning and better equipped to succeed in all areas of life.
Learn More
If you're curious about how SEL can shape your child’s educational experience, consider visiting Friends School Haverford. Their classrooms offer a glimpse into what’s possible when social-emotional learning is prioritized every day.
To schedule a tour, contact Olivia Brangan, Director of Admissions at 610-642-2334 [email protected] or visit www.friendshaverford.org to learn more.