Empowering Students to Grow and Bounce Forward
Supporting our students through challenges—big or small—can make all the difference in their wellbeing and future success. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is a powerful way for teachers to help students not just recover from setbacks, but to “bounce forward” and thrive.
Post-traumatic growth is the positive change that can happen after we experience a challenging or difficult event. For students, this means that even though tough times—like a family problem, personal setback, or unexpected change—can feel overwhelming at first, it’s possible to come out of these experiences stronger and wiser. Many students discover new strengths, develop greater empathy, and learn to appreciate life in new ways after overcoming hardship. By talking about feelings, seeking support, and reflecting on what was learned, students not only recover but can also grow in confidence, resilience, and their ability to handle future challenges. This process shows that tough experiences, though painful, can also be powerful opportunities for personal growth.
We often have a tendency to want to fix things when we see others in despair or withdrawn. It’s a tough space for educators to navigate and often causes enormous compassion fatigue and emotional distress when walking alongside students.
There is no magic wand to deal with this, but there are ways to empower learners to develop agency and confidence through these times. An added benefit is the skills that can be transferred and built upon for the next time a curve ball comes.
Here are some practical ways to empower your students using coaching strategies and strong, supportive relationships:
Create a Safe and Trusted Environment: Start by building classroom relationships based on trust and respect. Show empathy, listen without judgment, and let students know they are valued and supported. When students feel safe, they are more willing to open up and try new strategies for growth.
Use Coaching Conversations: Try the GROW model with your students—ask questions that help them set goals (G), reflect on their current reality (R), explore options (O), and decide on the way forward (W). This empowers students to take ownership of their learning and wellbeing, and helps them see setbacks as opportunities for growth.
Questions such as:
“What is one area you would like to move forward in today?”
“What’s happening for you right now, and what challenges are you noticing?”
“What are some different ways you could approach this, and which one feels best to try first?”
Model and Teach Resilience Skills: Incorporate SEL routines such as mindful breathing, positive self-talk, and solution-focused thinking. Praise persistence and effort, not just results. When students experience challenges, help them identify what they learned and how they can use those lessons in the future.
Partner with Families and Colleagues: Collaborate with parents, carers, and your teaching team to provide consistent support. Share strategies and celebrate progress together, so students experience a united, caring network around them.
Encourage Reflection and Connection: Invite students to reflect on times they’ve overcome difficulties, and celebrate their strengths. Foster peer connections by encouraging kindness, teamwork, and open communication.
By intentionally weaving SEL strategies and coaching techniques into daily routines, you’ll help your students build the confidence and resilience they need to bounce forward from challenges—and grow stronger, more connected, and ready to thrive.
Let’s continue working together to create safe, empowered learning communities where every student has the opportunity to flourish.
Johanna Crichton