Addressing Children's Mental Health During a Pandemic Through Social Emotional Learning and Artistic Expression

Abstract

A presentation on how Grace Walker was able to implement a Social Emotional Learning Program at the North Shore YMCA’s School Age Learning Pods during the pandemic. The presentation covers the importance of social emotional learning and how it can be implemented in any after school program while also including artistic expression. From observing children’s disruptive behaviors, Walker was able to see a need for social emotional learning. After implementing a Social Emotional Learning Program, data collection continued and resulted in a significant decrease in disruptive behaviors. Children who participated in the program also expressed what they learned and enjoyed from participating.