Episode 21 Partnering with Parents for Lasting Impact

Hey hey, teachers! 🌱 Welcome back to The Teachers’ Lounge Podcast — your weekly space to exhale, reset, and dig into the heart work of teaching.

In this episode, we’re talking about how to extend social-emotional learning beyond the classroom by partnering with families. Because SEL isn’t just a school subject — it’s a life skill. And when school and home speak the same SEL language, the impact multiplies.

You’ll learn:
✨ Why research shows SEL programs are most effective when families are involved (Child Development, CASEL)
✨ How to explain SEL concepts to parents in clear, everyday language
✨ Quick, low-prep take-home SEL activities families will actually use
✨ How to host engaging, judgment-free family workshops
✨ Ways to use newsletters and videos to “drip” SEL tips into homes
✨ Real stories of school-home collaboration that transformed student growth

Whether you’re a classroom teacher, counselor, or administrator, these strategies will help you create simple, sustainable SEL connections that last long after the school bell rings.

📌 Timestamps:
00:00 – Why SEL Works Best with Family Involvement
04:20 – Research on School-Home SEL Collaboration
09:15 – Step 1: Communicating SEL in Everyday Language
14:00 – Step 2: Quick & Meaningful Take-Home Activities
19:10 – Step 3: Hosting Accessible Family Workshops
23:50 – Step 4: Newsletters & Video Tips
28:40 – Real Story: When Home & School Spoke the Same Language
33:15 – Long-Term Benefits for Students
37:00 – Reflection Questions & Takeaways