Getting Started

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself

Start by reviewing the information on the Homepage to understand the purpose of Preschool Life Skills (PLS) and the 13 core skills taught in the program.

At the bottom of the homepage, watch the overview presentation, which provides a brief explanation of how PLS works in preschool classrooms.

Step 2: Learn How to Implement PLS

Visit the Implementing PLS page for guidance on how to teach the Preschool Life Skills (PLS) in your classroom and embed instruction into everyday routines.

Step 3: Decide Where to Begin

Go to Considerations for Sequencing the PLS Skills to decide the order in which to teach the 13 Preschool Life Skills (PLS). You can consider:

• Using the Questionnaire to identify areas of need in your classroom

• Your instructional priorities

• Whether to begin with communication, instruction-following, tolerance, or friendship skills

There is no single “correct” order since PLS is designed to be flexible.

Step 4: Review the Lesson Plans

Visit the Lesson Plans page to explore:

• Downloadable lesson plans for each Preschool Life Skill (PLS)

• Suggested teaching opportunities and classroom situations

• A practice scenario that show what it looks like to implement a lesson 

Step 5: Understand Data Collection

Go to the Data Collection page to review:

• The Preschool Life Skills (PLS) Tracking Sheet

• An example showing how to take data during instruction

Before using the data sheets with children, practice scoring responses using the Practice Scenario provided on this page.

Step 6: Explore Supporting Materials 

As you continue implementing Preschool Life Skills (PLS), you may find the following pages helpful:

• Questionnaire – Tools for gathering information about children’s skills

• Research Support – Articles and summaries of research supporting the PLS program

• Additional Resources – Printable handouts and posters for classroom use

Ready to Begin?

Once you’ve reviewed the Implementing Preschool Life Skills (PLS) page and selected your first skill, you’re ready to start teaching PLS in your classroom.