Committee for Children Blog

social emotional learning, responsive classroom, implementation, CARES, child protection

Implementing Responsive Classroom and Second Step in an Elementary School

This Virginia school district implements and integrates these programs to help students develop important social-emotional skills.

Responsive Classroom (RC) and Second Step are both evidence-based programs that focus on the strong relationship between academic success and social-emotional learning (SEL). Together, they provide tools for a safe and welcoming learning community, and for important academic, social, and emotional skills. Read More


trauma informed, social emotional learning, teacher, educator

Don’t Miss These Connections Between SEL and Trauma-Informed Practice

When we cannot know for sure whether children have experienced trauma, the use of trauma-informed practices and supports becomes more important in creating safe learning environments. Social-emotional learning and competencies are key in carrying out these practices so that kids feel supported and can thrive. Read More