When schools and families form authentic partnerships, they can build strong connections that reinforce students’ social and emotional development.

 

Families and caregivers are children’s first teachers, and bring deep expertise about their development, experiences, culture, and learning needs.

 

These insights and perspectives are critical to informing, supporting, and sustaining SEL efforts.

 

Research suggests that evidence-based SEL programs are more effective when they extend into the home, and families are far more likely to form partnerships with schools when their schools’ norms, values, and cultural representations reflect their own experiences.