The power of story: Embedding Social-Emotional Learning Through Children’s Literature in Alberta’s Physical Education and Wellness Curriculum

Inspire both hearts and bodies through the power of story! This hands-on workshop explores how children’s literature can be used as a meaningful entry point to teach social-emotional learning (SEL) through Alberta’s Physical Education and Wellness (PEW) curriculum. This collaboration with the BEEJ project, the Niwa Family, Medicine Hat College faculty, and 4th year Education students hopes to create more resilient outcomes in our youth through targeted mental health education in our schools. Participants will engage in activities that pair picture books with movement, discussion, and wellness practices—supporting outcomes related to emotional regulation, relationship-building, and self-awareness. Leave with a list of recommended titles and ready-to-use lesson ideas that connect literacy, movement, and mental well-being in powerful ways.