Why SEL Matters: WiseOcean’s Approach to Early Development

Ashley Reid
Dec 2, 2024
2 min read

In today’s world, the ability to navigate emotions and relationships is just as vital as academic success. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) equips children with essential life skills like self-awareness, empathy, and relationship-building. For young children, these skills lay the foundation for a lifetime of emotional health and meaningful interactions. WiseOcean combines SEL principles with the universal power of music to create a unique and impactful approach to early development.

Why SEL Matters

SEL is more than just a buzzword; it’s a necessity in modern education. According to research from the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), students who engage in SEL programs show an 11% increase in academic achievement and improved classroom behavior.

Beyond the classroom, SEL fosters better mental health, reduces stress, and cultivates resilience. For preschool-aged children, SEL provides tools to express emotions constructively, resolve conflicts peacefully, and build positive relationships. Teaching these skills early helps children thrive in school, at home, and in their communities.

WiseOcean: A Musical SEL Experience

WiseOcean recognizes that music is a natural and joyful way for children to learn. Songs like “Have Patience” and “Choose How to React” teach SEL concepts like emotional regulation and empathy in ways that young minds can easily understand. By pairing relatable lyrics with memorable melodies, WiseOcean transforms abstract concepts into tangible lessons.

How WiseOcean Aligns with SEL Principles

Building Emotional Awareness

WiseOcean songs encourage children to identify and label their feelings. For example, “Let it Go” invites kids to explore and express emotions in a safe, creative way.

Try this at home: Create a daily routine where you and your child sing the song together while discussing emotions.

Encouraging Positive Relationships

Group singalongs and interactive WiseOcean challenges promote teamwork and cooperation. Songs like “Have a Smile” inspire children to celebrate collaboration.

Try this WiseOcean Challenge: Organize a mini “WiseOcean Concert” where kids perform their favorite songs together, fostering teamwork and confidence. You can also invite Momma Swell to perform a Live Program at libraries, schools, youth centers, and anywhere our kiddos gather!

Supporting Self-Regulation

Tracks like “Time to Relax” provide rhythmic tools to help children calm down and focus.

📌 Educator Tip: Use this song during transitions, like moving from playtime to quiet time, to help kids adjust.

Inspiring Creativity and Expression

WiseOcean encourages children to create their own songs and dances, empowering them to explore their emotions and ideas through art with inspiration from a hand drawn island band and Momma Swell's cardboard guitar!

Why Start Early?

The early years are a critical window for developing SEL skills. Brain development is at its peak during this time, making children particularly receptive to learning through music and play. By embedding SEL into daily routines through WiseOcean songs, parents and educators can ensure these lessons stick for life.

Discover the Joy of WiseOcean

WiseOcean isn’t just about teaching skills—it’s about creating joyful moments of connection for kids and their families. By combining SEL with music, WiseOcean makes learning a shared experience, fostering a sense of belonging and love in every home and classroom.

🎶 Explore our songs and resources:

Let’s sing, grow, and thrive together. Learn to be happy with WiseOcean today!