As conversations around academic success continue to evolve, educators and parents alike are beginning to recognize that test scores alone don’t paint the full picture of student achievement. In fact, some of the most vital skills young people need—like self-awareness, resilience, communication, and empathy—are rooted in something called social-emotional learning (SEL).
At A World Fit For Kids, a leading provider of after-school programs in Los Angeles, CA, SEL is not an add-on—it’s the foundation of everything they do. From structured play to leadership training, A World Fit For Kids uses evidence-based frameworks to help students develop the social and emotional tools they need to succeed far beyond the classroom.
The SEL Framework That Fuels Growth
A World Fit For Kids aligns its curriculum with the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) framework, which focuses on four key competencies:
- Self-Awareness
- Self-Management
- Social Awareness
- Relationship Skills
These pillars are woven into every program, whether students are participating in a nutrition activity, robotics class, or arts and crafts session. This means that while they’re learning how to build a robot or paint a canvas, they’re also learning how to handle frustration, collaborate with peers, and celebrate their successes.
More Than Academic Support
While A World Fit For Kids does provide structured homework help and academic tutoring, the organization’s focus extends beyond traditional metrics. Staff members are trained to support the “whole child,” helping students understand their emotions, set achievable goals, manage stress, and build supportive peer relationships.
In a city as dynamic and diverse as Los Angeles, after-school programs must go beyond academics to truly meet the needs of students—and A World Fit For Kids has spent over 30 years doing just that.
SEL in Action: A Day at AWFFK!
Walk into any A World Fit For Kids program site after school, and you’ll likely see kids collaborating on group projects, cheering one another on during sports games, or participating in reflective journaling sessions. These aren’t just filler activities—they’re designed to develop SEL skills in real time.
For example, in the “Coach Action Plan” activity, instructors model leadership behaviors and help students build habits like self-discipline, goal setting, and constructive communication. In physical fitness and sports programs, students learn about teamwork and emotional regulation as much as they learn about drills or techniques.
The Link Between SEL and School Counselor Careers
There’s also a direct connection between SEL-focused programming and the growing interest in school counselor jobs and education-based careers. Programs like A World Fit For Kids serve as a proving ground for individuals interested in working with youth, offering hands-on experience that helps develop the skills needed for counseling, mentoring, and community engagement.
For those seeking school counselor careers in Los Angeles, CA, volunteering or working with a nonprofit like A World Fit For Kids can provide foundational insight into what it really takes to guide and support young people.
Preparing Students for Life, Not Just School
In a world that demands emotional intelligence just as much as academic success, programs like A World Fit For Kids are providing students with the full toolkit they need. These aren’t soft skills—they’re survival skills. The ability to communicate effectively, handle conflict, stay focused under pressure, and lead with empathy are what will set these students apart in the classroom, workplace, and community.
At a time when many young people feel disconnected or overwhelmed, A World Fit For Kids’ commitment to SEL ensures that every student is seen, supported, and given the space to thrive.
