Second Step's problem solving model helps students slow down, consider the consequences of their actions, and make better choices. In our littlest learners this isn't practical without adult coaching. Kelso's wheel empowers students of any age to make good choices and know when they need to get adult assistance. We teach Kelso's to our K-1 students so that they can solve problems and resolve conflict independently.

While second step give students an emotional awareness of feelings, how they effect the body, and what to do with big feelings. It's not great about the why. Mind up has 3 lessons that teach kids about how their brain works. What the fight, flight, and freeze response is. And how to train their brain to get out of this emergency response quickly through everyday exercises. Thus giving them better emotional regulation and understanding of their brains.

Second Step's middle school curriculum includes very little content on skills for learning. Focusing instead on skills for getting along like how to work in a group work, perspective taking, and conflict resolution skills that we know our pre teens need. To fill this whole HCA offer lessons on study skills through the American School Counselor Associations Organizational Skills Boot Camp. Topics include taking notes, how to keep track of assignments, time management, and SMART goal setting.

Second Step builds strong emotional management skills in students and we supplement this curriculum with lessons' from Mind Up. Students learn the neuroscience behind their emotions. What the fight, flight, and freeze response is. And how to train their brain to get out of this emergency response quickly through everyday exercises. They also learn about the value of optimism as a learned skills for academic success. Plus these lessons make real world connections to careers helping them with career exploration.