SEL Curriculum for Rural Children in China

We are pleased to share some updates in Feberuary from the SEL Curriculum for Rural Children project. Your generosity continues to plant seeds of resilience and emotional well-being across rural China.

I. Teacher Empowerment: Building the Guardians of Mental Health

• Mini-Reading Circles (Feb 5): We conducted a "Leader Training" for our teacher reading groups. This session equipped 6 dedicated teachers with the methodology and tools to facilitate their own reading circles within their schools. By fostering a culture of "co-reading and co-learning," we are helping rural teachers grow together.
• SFBT Skills Workshop (Feb 28): 8 teachers participated in our third "Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)" study group. This month focused on "Relationship Questions." Through online lectures and interactive role-play, teachers mastered five practical steps to help students improve their interpersonal relationships.
• Community Reflections: During the Winter Break, we launched an "Annual Review" campaign. Dozens of teachers shared their growth stories, creating a powerful wave of mutual inspiration.

[Voice from the Field]

• "The SEL class is like a 'timely rain' for my students," says Teacher Wang from Shanxi. "During the 'Magic Key' activity, an introverted boy whispered that his magic key was 'finding one small joy in my diary every day.' His eyes were shining. I realized that SEL isn't just teaching; it’s about 'awakening' and 'accompanying.' I’ve learned to listen and truly see the infinite possibilities in every child."
• Teacher Deng from Hunan shared a transformation: "My class used to be chaotic and lacked cohesion. But after 8 SEL sessions, everything changed. During the 'Gratitude' lesson, I heard kids thanking themselves and their peers. Even the school principal noticed—the classroom now remains quiet and respectful even when I'm not there. The children are truly glowing."

II. Other Progress: Designing Better Tools for Growth
Our research and development team has been working hard to adapt and optimize our tools:

• Junior High School Activity Toolkit: In February, we completed the needs analysis and creative collection phase. The activity designs are now finalized. We are currently working on the handbook layout and visual design, with internal reviews scheduled for mid-March.
• "Psychology Corner" Product Optimization: Based on feedback from our pilot teachers, we have refined the design of several physical materials for the classroom mental health corners. These items are now in the sampling and prototyping stage to ensure they are both durable and engaging for rural students.

Every heart deserves to be seen, and every child holds infinite potential.

Thank you for being the reason these "seeds of hope" are sprouting in rural campuses. Your support makes this transformation possible.

With gratitude,
The Rici Team