Hey, I’m Mehreen Hamayun, a mom of four from the vibrant land of Pakistan, now shaping young minds as an educator in the serene landscapes of Sweden. These past years have been a whirlwind, particularly with the global pandemic redefining our norms.
In this blog, I would like to take a moment to share how my journey of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) started.
It’s essential to recognize that the impact of COVID-19 stretched far beyond the classroom. Both children and adults found themselves grappling with heightened levels of anxiety and stress. As educators, our commitment extended beyond the confines of academics. We were not just shaping minds; we were on a mission to support the holistic well-being of our students and their families.
When the new term commenced, a new reality unfolded. Students, young and impressionable, displayed a deficiency in basic life skills. Unfocused behaviour, coupled with heightened anxiety and stress, became more prevalent. It was in response to this reality that my role was introduced — Social-Emotional Specialist. Trust me, it wasn’t a walk in the park.
Sweden’s choice not to implement a lockdown becomes a topic for another day, another blog. As staff and parents, our genuine concern for everyone’s well-being was palpable. The fear of contracting COVID added an extra layer of stress to an already challenging time.
The lack of social-emotional awareness became a puzzle demanding our collective dedication to solve. It wasn’t just about teaching; it was about understanding and navigating the emotional complexities that unfolded in the wake of a global crisis.
As I observe the ripple effect, it’s heartening to witness both the teaching staff and the parent community starting to embrace the significance of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). The journey has just begun; I wouldn’t say I’ve created awareness, but rather, it’s an ongoing process.
This expedition, traversing the terrain of both kids and adults, has been marked by mutual support, creating awareness around the significance of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). This focus transcends the boundaries of traditional academics, laying the foundation for a resilient and emotionally intelligent future.
As we progress, my enthusiasm for creating social awareness grows. I am excited to collaborate with you all to further enhance your understanding of its importance. This collaboration will not only benefit you as an adult but will also guide and support you in understanding your children in a better way. Navigating this path of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is a dynamic journey. With each stride, we actively shape a more emotionally resilient and compassionate future.