Helping Boys Build Emotional Strength and Connection
For boys who are struggling with behavior, relationships or school, academic support alone isn’t enough.
At Cherokee Creek Boys School, we work with boys ages 10 – 15 who need more than just traditional instruction … they need tools to handle life.
That’s where social-emotional learning comes in.
“Boys don’t need to be fixed. They need to be seen, heard and supported in relationships where they can be their whole selves.”
– Michael Reichert, Ph.D., Author of How to Raise a Boy
What Is Social-Emotional Learning?
Social-emotional learning (SEL) is the process of developing the self-awareness, self-control and interpersonal skills that are vital for school, work and life success.
According to the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), SEL helps children and teens learn how to manage emotions, set positive goals, show empathy, maintain relationships and make responsible decisions. LINK
These skills are essential for all students … but they’re especially important for boys who may struggle with emotional regulation, impulsivity or forming healthy peer connections.
Why SEL Matters … Especially for Boys
Research shows that boys often receive less encouragement to express feelings which can leave them emotionally disconnected and prone to frustration, anger or isolation.
A 2021 Harvard Graduate School of Education study encourages schools to create learning environments where boys feel safe exploring emotional vulnerability. LINK
Another compelling article from Edutopia emphasizes that middle-school boys benefit most when SEL is hands-on, real-life focused and supported by adults who model empathy and consistency. When boys feel emotionally safe, they’re more likely to engage, reflect and grow. LINK
As author and educator Rosalind Wiseman said, “Connection is the antidote to shame. When young people feel heard, they begin to heal and grow.”
Strategies That Work
SEL isn’t a single lesson or program … it’s woven into everyday interactions. Here are a few effective, research-backed strategies for teaching SEL to boys:
- Model Emotional Language | Help boys build vocabulary around feelings … beyond just “fine” or “angry.”
- Talk Through Real-Life Scenarios | Walk through conflicts, successes or disappointments and explore the emotions behind them.
- Encourage Self-Regulation | Mindfulness, movement and breathing techniques help boys calm their nervous systems and reset.
- Prioritize Connection | Boys thrive in trusted relationships. Regular check-ins or small group circles provide low-pressure opportunities to be seen and heard.
- Include Families | SEL doesn’t stop at the school gate. When parents are involved in the process, boys learn to carry these skills into everyday life.
How Cherokee Creek Builds SEL Into Daily Life
At Cherokee Creek, social-emotional learning is more than a program … it’s part of our culture. We teach SEL through morning meetings, guided discussions, experiential learning and daily opportunities for boys to practice empathy, reflection and self-awareness.
Just as importantly, we involve families every step of the way. From regular updates to family-focused workshops, we equip parents with tools to support their child’s emotional growth at home.
SEL at Cherokee Creek helps boys do more than manage emotions … it helps them discover who they are, how they connect with others and what they’re capable of becoming.
Because CCBS believes…
The goal isn’t to fix boys … it’s to support their journey in becoming their best and truest selves.
More About Social-Emotional Learning
Harvard Graduate School of Education (featuring Dr. Niobe Way on Emotional Development of Boys)
Using Social and Emotional Learning to Connect With Middle School Students (Edutopia)
Cherokee Creek Boys School … Premier Therapeutic Boarding School
Think your son can benefit from our CCBS therapeutic boarding school?
Call to request more information about admissions.