Social and Emotional Learning and Student Agency: A deep dive into Jabari Jumps

Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall

Universal Design for Learning and Social and Emotional Learning - A match made in music class heaven!

I am a huge fan of social and emotional learning and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework. The beauty of the latest version of the UDL guidelines (UDL 3.0) is that the guidelines make specific connections to the power of social and emotional learning within the already very-accessible framework. UDL and social and emotional learning both support each other. Talk about something to celebrate.

Social-Emotional Learning and UDL in the Music Classroom: Showcasing Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall

While many times I often take a wider scope and offer up some broader strategies for integrating SEL and UDL into the music class, many teachers I have been coaching and working with have asked for specific resources and lessons that they can use today with their students. So, today I’m taking a deep dive to showcase a children’s book that I feel can really help our students learn about and reflect on social and emotional skills. Social-emotional learning (SEL) is a crucial component of education, helping students develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience. Jabari Jumps is a beautifully illustrated story that follows a young boy, Jabari, as he overcomes his fear of jumping off the high diving board. His journey of courage, perseverance, and self-confidence makes it an excellent tool for supporting SEL through music activities.

Incorporating Jabari Jumps in the Music Classroom

Using Jabari Jumps as a foundation, music educators can craft lessons that align with SEL competencies while also engaging students in meaningful musical experiences. Below are a few ways to incorporate the book into your classroom (feel free to download my free lesson plan here - which includes a sample choice board as well!):

1. Musical Storytelling

• Have students create soundscapes to represent Jabari’s emotions throughout the story. For example:

  • Use drums and percussion for his excitement.

  • Soft wind instruments or chimes for his moments of hesitation.

  • A crescendo to build tension as he climbs the ladder.

  • A triumphant melody for the moment he jumps.

• Encourage students to experiment with tempo, dynamics, and instrumentation to convey different feelings.

2. Composing Jabari’s Journey

• Divide students into small groups and assign each group a different part of the story.

• Ask them to compose a short melody or rhythm pattern that reflects Jabari’s emotional journey.

• Perform the compositions in sequence, creating a musical retelling of the book.

3. Movement and Expression

• Engage students in expressive movement activities:

  • Have them move like Jabari at different points in the story—slow, hesitant steps for nervousness, a deep breath for courage, and a big leap for his jump.

  • Use scarves, ribbons, or props to enhance their physical interpretation.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Strategies

UDL ensures that all students can access and engage with the lesson, regardless of learning style or ability. Here’s how to apply UDL principles:

• Multiple Means of Engagement: Allow students to choose how they express Jabari’s emotions (e.g., through instruments, movement, or vocal sounds).

• Multiple Means of Representation: Use visuals, read-alouds, and audio recordings to cater to different learning preferences.

• Multiple Means of Action and Expression: Let students collaborate, improvise, and create in ways that best suit their abilities.

Guiding Questions for Social-Emotional Learning

Use discussion to help students connect Jabari’s experiences with their own feelings and challenges. Ask:

• How do you think Jabari felt before he jumped? Have you ever felt like that before?

• What helped Jabari find the courage to jump? What helps you when you feel nervous?

• How can music express different emotions? Can you create a sound that represents excitement? Fear? Relief?

• How does overcoming a challenge in music (like learning a new song or instrument) compare to Jabari’s experience?

Final thoughts

By incorporating Jabari Jumps into the music classroom, educators can create meaningful, SEL-infused lessons that help students explore emotions through sound, movement, and storytelling. This integration not only builds musical skills but also fosters confidence, resilience, and self-expression—essential qualities for lifelong learning. Try bringing this story into your classroom and watch as your students leap into deeper emotional and musical understanding!