Second Step (K-3) contains four proven components designed to teach problem solving skills, impulse control, anger management and empathy. Family unit reinforces the same four components taught to students in grades K-3.
Social-emotional skills—like math skills—build on each other. Our universal, classroom-based program is designed to teach children how to understand and manage their emotions, control their reactions, be aware of others’ feelings, and have the skills to problem-solve and make responsible decisions. Each grade-level kit includes easy-to-teach, short weekly lessons, engaging songs and games, and daily activities and take-home materials to reinforce learning. Watch video overview.
New challenges, new skills
To make the big transition to elementary school, kids need to learn new skills, such as how to control impulses, stay focused, and follow rules. The research-based Second Step program helps teachers give students the skills and confidence they need to adjust to a full day of learning. Kids are captivated by the colorful Second Step lesson cards, interactive songs, games, and especially beloved puppets Puppy and Snail and plush Be-Calm Bunny.
Excited to Learn
First-graders feel big. They’re no longer the youngest, and they’re learning and growing fast. Socially and emotionally, they need skills such as knowing how to calm down, get along with others, and practice empathy. The research-basedSecond Step program makes learning those lessons fun with colorful materials, new songs and videos, puppets, and engaging Brain Builder games.
Growing Up & Getting Along
By second grade, students have gained a sense of independence and self-awareness and are ready to start solving problems on their own. Teachers use the research-based Second Step lessons and accompanying games, videos, and daily activities to teach students skills—such as how to avoid assumptions, pay attention and listen, finish tasks, and show compassion—that can lead to gains in confidence and school success.
Imaginative & Friendly
In third grade, students make academic and social leaps, reading more challenging books, working through multi-step math problems, and participating more in collaborative work and shared learning experiences. The research-basedSecond Step program provides engaging videos and lively Brain Builder games to make it easier to learn skills like managing anxiety and disappointment and how to work together respectfully.