SEL Mama

A mama and educator on a journey to empower hearts and minds for happier, healthier humans (both big and small)!

2011

I became a teacher.

After finishing my Master’s in Education, I started my career as a Basic Skills. Since then I’ve taught Middle School Math and Science, Instructional Technology and First Grade. That means I’ve taught kindergarten to eight grade in the traditional classroom setting. Additionally I have taught professional development courses to adults and at the Continuing Education Department at a New Jersey University.

2017

My introduction to SEL.

I attended a life changing professional development summer session in the summer of 2017 at UC Berkeley called the Greater Good Science Institute for Educators. The main takeaway for me was that, I could help students develop emotionally in ways I never thought I could. This sparked my desire to pursue doctoral education in philosophy, attending more pd sessions in mindfulness, and teaching others how to do the same.

2019

I became a Mama!

My world, Theodore, was born. Navigating having a newborn was hard, but I knew I had to follow my instincts. This was easy to do in a global pandemic because there were less people looking into our lives, but it also hindered finding a community or village. Seeing the world as a mom has changed my mission.

I may have never professionally taught early childhood but I learned so much from my Teddy-bear.


  • Traveling the World: A Passport to Social Emotional Growth

    Traveling the World: A Passport to Social Emotional Growth

    Traveling with children offers a unique opportunity for learning and personal development beyond the classroom. While the allure of exotic destinations and cultural experiences is undeniable, the true benefits of travel lie in its profound impact on children’s social and emotional well-being.   The Science of Cultural Immersion Research in psychology and education has consistently…

  • Building Bridges, Not Walls: 30 Simple Ways to Cultivate Inclusion with Your Family

    Building Bridges, Not Walls: 30 Simple Ways to Cultivate Inclusion with Your Family

    Imagine a world where everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to participate, regardless of their differences. That’s the beautiful vision of inclusion, and as parents and caregivers, we have the power to cultivate it in our homes and communities, starting with our own families. But how do we translate this grand vision into practical actions?…

  • Superpower Squad: 30 Fun Ways to Master Self-Regulation as a Family!

    Imagine your family as a team of superheroes, each with unique strengths and challenges. But what if you could unlock a superpower that benefits everyone – the power of self-regulation? This amazing ability helps us manage emotions, control impulses, and stay focused, leading to calmer, happier lives. So, how do we train our “regulation muscles”?…

  • Beyond ABCs and 123s

    Beyond ABCs and 123s

    Why Social-Emotional Learning is the Secret Weapon in Raising Thriving Kids As parents, we pour our hearts into our children’s education, ensuring they master their multiplication tables and ace their spelling tests. But what about the skills that underpin all that learning? The ability to manage emotions, navigate social situations, and build healthy relationships? Enter…

  • Welcome to SEL Mama

    Welcome to SEL Mama

    Where Hearts and Learning Grow! Hi there! I’m Meg Yar, a mom to a curious and energetic four-year-old, a passionate educator, and a lifelong learner who studied at the doctoral level in the fascinating world of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). But before fancy titles, I’m simply a human who wants to see children thrive, not just…

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Meg Yar

Mama & SEL Specialist