Social-emotional learning (SEL) in first grade is incredibly important, and programs like the Open Circle Curriculum and GoZen bring this to life in a warm and engaging way. The Open Circle Curriculum helps children learn how to build friendships and communicate kindly, while GoZen uses fun activities to teach them about handling stress and bouncing back from challenges. Together, these programs create a nurturing classroom environment where kids feel understood and supported. They learn to understand their own feelings, show empathy for others, and develop the social skills that are so important for both their academic journey and personal growth.