School Life

Social Emotional Growth

- Social Emotional Growth

Valuing social-emotional growth just as much as academic growth is part of our commitment to educating the whole child. Social-emotional learning is not just the latest "educational trend"; it has long been embedded into everything we do.

Social Emotional Learning at PMFS

Children’s social and emotional learning at Plymouth Meeting Friends School starts under the beautiful old trees on our campus, as students engage in daily play and interactions with one another. Guided by thoughtful teachers, Plymouth students learn to navigate the intricacies of their feelings, consider the experiences of others, and communicate with care and intention to their friends.

Social and Emotional Learning Curriculum

Our SEL program is deeply rooted in the Quaker testimonies, guided by our teachers and practiced by the students as part of the fabric of their school day. Additionally, SEL class time is part of students' regular schedule, like art or P.E. In Pre-K and Kindergarten, students are supported in identifying and expressing their emotions and expanding their “feelings” vocabulary. Students in First - Fourth grade practice communicating feelings and thoughts to each other through conversation, reflection, “I messages,” as well as structured activities such as “Feedback.” The culmination of the PMFS SEL program is in Fifth grade, where students, trained in conflict resolution, become leaders in mediation and problem-solving skills for their peer community.

Always Evolving

Today’s students face different challenges than past generations; they have lived through a global pandemic and are navigating both a complex and rapidly shifting world of technology and the tremendous societal change and growth around diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Current research indicates that optimal academic learning occurs when students’ social and emotional lives are well-tended and emotional growth and connection with others are fostered. Additionally, time in nature is strongly associated with enhanced social and emotional learning. PMFS is in a unique position to offer both experiences. It is in moments navigating friendships or playing under the “Mary” tree that so much social and emotional growth in our students occurs.