Our SEL-Corner

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	Basic
	Age: 4-6
	1 week
	Children co-create a cozy SEL corner—a space for exploring emotions, expressing feelings, and practicing social and emotional learning through play.
	Collaboration
	Conversation Cognitive task
	Furniture (to define and furnish the SEL corner, such as shelves, a small table, or comfy seating) Posters on emotions, empathy, and social interactions Books and picture materials related to feelings and relationships SEL learning games and materials (emotion cards, puppets, story prompts, etc.) Soft items for comfort (e.g. cushions, soft toys, blankets, rugs)

Preparation

The corner should be a permanent space for social and emotional learning. The corner will be created in stages and by the end will include several posters on the walls and a lot of didactic material that will be created during the activities.

Implementation

Introduction

Introduce the idea of creating a special corner in the playroom—one dedicated to emotions, feelings, and wellbeing. Explain that this will be a safe and cozy space where everyone can explore how they feel, play games about emotions, and take time to relax or think.

Start a conversation with the children:

“What should this new space look like?”
“What would help you feel safe and comfortable there?”
“What can we put inside to help us learn about feelings?”

Encourage children to share their thoughts or describe what kind of space they would enjoy.

Main Activity

Work together to design and set up the SEL corner. Steps may include:

Choosing a location in the playroom (move furniture if needed).
Making sure the space is well-lit, comfortable, and large enough to allow small group activities or quiet time.
Collecting soft materials (cushions, rugs, stuffed animals) to make the space cozy.
Bringing in or creating posters, photos, and books related to emotions and social interactions.
Displaying materials made during previous SEL activities—like emotion cards, drawings, or puppets.
Allowing children to help decorate and make the space their own.

Let the SEL corner grow over time, adding new materials and ideas as you complete more activities.

Variations and Additional Ideas