At This Time of School Closures and Remote Learning, How to Keep Students Engaged and Tend to Their Social-Emotional Health

Youth with Laptop

Students are losing access to trusted adults, close friends and mental health care services. School closures and the broader concerns around COVID-19 are stress-inducing, and many students are entering this phase with underlying mental health challenges. As schools convert from in-person to online instruction, the need remains for continued personal connection and attention to the well-being of students and staff.

Talking with Youth abut COVID-19 through an SEL Lens

Boy and Woman washing hands

When talking with children, use age-appropriate language and answer their questions honestly and accurately. Explain (in simple terms) what is known about the disease and that scientists are working hard to find out more.