SALISBURY, NC – For generations, we’ve understood that school is about more than reading and arithmetic; it’s where our children learn to be good citizens and good friends. But what does that mean in 2025, when the playground is as much digital as it is physical? When friendships are built through text messages and video games, and "big feelings" are expressed through emojis and memes? Here at Emoti Labs, we believe it’s time to meet our kids where they are. That’s why we are

Update: As of June 2026, Emoti Labs and McDonald's have realigned their strategic visions to launch The EmotiPlace™. Read the full press release here: Go to Post. A Message to the Lurnsters Community from Emoti Labs, The mission of Lurnsters is to create a world where children can navigate their feelings with confidence and kindness. Our commitment to fostering safe, inclusive, and positive environments for every child is the foundation of every decision we make. This commitm

For decades, two powerful concepts have shaped how we prepare children for the world: Digital Literacy and Emotional Intelligence. In 1997, author Paul Gilster first defined digital literacy not just as the ability to use a computer, but as the mastery of ideas presented through digital formats. Around the same time, the concept of emotional intelligence, coined by psychologists Peter Salovey and John D. Mayer in 1990 and later popularized by Daniel Goleman, established the c

SALISBURY — Music and joyful chatter filled the halls of New Trent Gym on Livingstone College’s campus Saturday, not for a pep rally, but for an equally cheerful cause: the annual Children’s Book Festival. Moved indoors due to potential inclement weather, the event created a warm, fostering environment for area children aged three to 12 to explore the magic of reading and emotional discovery. A key highlight this year was the interactive presence of the Lurnsters, the flagshi

By Emoti Labs, Innovators in Children's Emotional Intelligence (Salisbury, NC – May 16, 2025) The 21st century has immersed children in a digital world brimming with connection, information, and interaction. While traditional digital literacy focuses on the technical skills of using technology, a critical dimension often remains unaddressed: the profound interplay between our emotions and our digital lives. Recognizing this vital need, the Research & Development team at Emoti

Get ready to blast off into a galaxy of fun and excitement at the 2025 PuppetPalooza at ImaginOn! The beloved Lurnsters are embarking on a thrilling new adventure, this time in the far reaches of outer space. Join the Lurnsters as they encounter a new race of beings: the Emoti Bots. These unique robots from Emoti Planet possess their own distinct feelings and emotions, making them a fascinating addition to the Lurnster universe. But danger lurks in the cosmos! The menacing Mr

The Lurnsters, a groundbreaking educational program, is redefining the landscape of early childhood education by prioritizing emotional intelligence. In a world increasingly focused on cognitive development, the Lurnsters shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked yet fundamental aspect of human growth: emotional intelligence. Research consistently underscores the profound impact of emotional intelligence on a child’s overall development. Studies have shown that individuals wi

Salisbury, NC – Emoti Labs, a pioneer in social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum and technology, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with McDonald's to deliver engaging and accessible SEL programming to communities widespread. This innovative collaboration will see Emoti Labs' beloved Lurnsters characters come to life through live interactive puppet shows in McDonald's restaurants. By leveraging the widespread reach of McDonald's, Emoti Labs aims to break down barri

Salisbury, NC – Emoti Labs and Communities In Schools (CIS) are thrilled to announce a dynamic partnership that will culminate in a special SEL event at a local McDonald's. As the CIS summer literacy program reaches its grand finale, Emoti Labs’ beloved Lurnsters will take center stage, delivering an interactive and engaging SEL experience. This unique collaboration marks a significant step forward in the integration of social-emotional learning (SEL) into community life. By

Salisbury, North Carolina – Emoti Labs, a pioneer in social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum and technology, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Communities in Schools (CIS). This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the nationwide effort to enhance SEL programs and improve student outcomes. By joining forces, Emoti Labs and CIS aim to create a model for scaling effective SEL interventions across the country. CIS, with its deep-rooted presence in s

Growing up in the projects, I wasn't your typical student. I grappled with challenges that manifested in ways I didn't understand then.

Focusing on the unknown naturally transcends subject boundaries. The question of "What is matter made of?" could spark discussion.

Educators play a crucial role in fostering children's emotional intelligence. Yet, even the most experienced teachers can find themselves bewildered by seemingly outsized emotional reactions from students. Here at Emoti Labs, our research on the science of emotions offers valuable insights to bridge this gap. For decades, a simplistic view dominated our understanding: emotions were thought to be pre-programmed responses triggered by dedicated brain circuits. Fear triggered a

At Emoti Labs, we translate scientific research into practical tools for educators. We offer resources to help adults understand students.

The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) has laid a significant groundwork for understanding and promoting Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) in schools. However, the educational landscape is constantly evolving. Emoti Labs, a leading research and development company in the SEL space, is committed to building upon CASEL's foundation and adapting it for the needs of modern learners. Addressing the Modern Context: While CASEL's five core competencies

"We're incredibly grateful to Chewy for their generosity and to Emoti Labs for their ongoing partnership."

Emoti Labs, a leading research and development company dedicated to Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) announced the appointment of James Catoe