The Science
The Science Behind Artful SEL
Why rhythm, art, and emotional check-ins work.
Artful SEL is grounded in proven research on brain development, emotional regulation, and the power of creative expression. Every feature of the app—breathing, affirmations, rhythm-based art activities, and emotional check-ins—is intentionally designed to support how children's brains grow and learn.
Built on the Brain's Natural Sequence
We follow the Neurosequential Model developed by Dr. Bruce Perry, which explains how the brain develops from the bottom up:
1. Regulate the body (brainstem)
2. Relate through connection (limbic system)
3. Reason and reflect (cortex)
That means kids need to feel safe, calm, and regulated before they can learn or solve problems. Our rhythmic activities and calming tools help settle the brainstem first—so kids are ready to think, talk, and grow.
The 6 R’s of Healing Experiences
Our activities follow Dr. Perry’s 6 R’s, which support healthy brain development:
-Relational – Kids feel emotionally safe and connected
-Relevant – Activities are age-appropriate and meaningful
-Rhythmic – Music and art are timed to calming beats
-Repetitive – Skills are reinforced through daily use
-Rewarding – Positive feedback keeps kids engaged
-Respectful – Children move at their own pace
This approach is especially powerful for children who have experienced stress, anxiety, or trauma, but good for all children.
Why Rhythm Calms the Brain
Research shows that rhythmic activities like drumming, dancing, or drawing to a steady beat help organize the lower brain—where stress and survival responses live. This is why Artful SEL uses a metronome and rhythmic soundtracks for many of its calming activities. It's not just fun—it's neurologically regulating.
Emotional Awareness Through Color
Our color-coded feelings check-in is based on child development research showing that visual cues help kids better understand and express complex emotions. Inspired by SEL frameworks used in schools and therapy, this simple system helps kids name and navigate their feelings clearly—and gives parents valuable insight too.
Backed by Experts in Education & Mental Health
Artful SEL was created by educators, counselors, and mental health professionals using the latest research in:
-Child psychology and neuroscience
-Trauma-informed education
-Social-emotional learning (SEL)
-Growth mindset and emotional resilience
Designed for the Real World
Whether a child is navigating school stress, transitions at home, or everyday challenges, our tools are built to meet them where they are—and help them grow.
When we calm the body, connect through presence, and teach kids how to recognize and respond to their feelings, we build the foundation for lifelong emotional health.