Free Instant On-the-Fly Social Emotional Learning Lessons for Busy Teachers Grades 5 to 10

By Catherine Patterson-Sterling, PhD, RCC

As teachers, we all know the reality that plans do not always go as planned. The smartboard may not connect, the lesson wraps up faster than expected, or the energy in the room shifts and suddenly you need something meaningful, engaging, as well as fast. This is when instant, on-the-fly social and emotional learning (SEL) lessons come in.

SEL does not have to mean lengthy, pre-packaged programs or a separate curriculum binder. In fact, some of the most effective SEL moments happen spontaneously and in short bursts. A two-minute check-in circle, a quick gratitude share, or a fast role-play about handling conflict can help students reset, refocus, and connect without taking a huge chunk of class time.

One simple strategy is to keep a “SEL toolbox” ready. This can be as easy as having a list of prompts on index cards: “Name one thing that made you smile today.” or “What’s one way you can show kindness this week?” These quick discussions take only minutes but build empathy and self-awareness.

Another go-to is a breathing or mindfulness reset. Just sixty seconds of guided breathing or stretching can shift the classroom energy from scattered to centered. Students begin to recognize the value of pausing and regulating their emotions which are essential skills they will carry far beyond the classroom.

For teachers juggling endless demands, these on-the-fly SEL resources are a lifesaver. They are quick, require no prep, and can be woven into any subject area.

With instant SEL lessons in your back pocket, you will always be ready to turn unexpected classroom moments into opportunities for growth and connection.

SEL Instant Lessons At Any Time

Visit: https://www.softskillstrainingcenter.com/challenges and log in to the FREE TEACHER’S COPY while having each student log into the same link using the VERIFIED SITE MEMBERS copy and you will be able to access engaging pre-loaded lessons following six animated characters that students follow with videos, small group mind mapping goal bus activities, and then follow-up with quizzes as well reflections loaded on a learning management systems related to:

Other modules include lessons on resiliency and future planning which includes stories and poems. Finally, students can also engage in an interactive reading and spelling program for addressing skill gaps.

In the rush of a busy school day, quick SEL lessons are a teaching hack which are easy to grab, simple to use, and powerful enough to shift the entire mood of your classroom. With just a few ready-made tools, you can turn unexpected moments into meaningful connections that help students thrive both academically and emotionally.

About The Writer:

Catherine Patterson-Sterling, PhD, RCC is an educator of 20+ years with diverse experience in all levels of elementary, high school, and post secondary education as a teacher, counsellor, and clinical supervisor. With extensive experience in research and counselling, she understands the impact as well as sources of disengagement as well as chronic absenteeism on learners at all levels. She is also the creator of these new innovative programs “Twenty”  & “LOTUS” sponsored by Soft Skills Training Center and Patterson-Sterling Consulting and Counselling Services.