Merrell’s Strong Start—Grades K–2

A Social & Emotional Learning Curriculum

Second Edition

by Sara A. Whitcomb, Ph.D. University of Massachusetts Amherst and Danielle M. Parisi Damico, Ph.D. Amplify Education, Inc. Brooklyn, New York

About the Authors

Sara A. Whitcomb, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, School Psychology, Department of Student Development, University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Dr. Whitcomb is Associate Professor in the School Psychology program in the Department of Student Development at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. She teaches courses pertaining to developmental psychopathology, psychology in the classroom, behavioral assessment, and school-based consultation. Dr. Whitcomb works with several school districts on their implementation of schoolwide positive behavior interventions and support, and her current research efforts include investigation of quality implementation features and consultation related to school-based behavioral and social-emotional learning efforts. She has coauthored several articles and (with Kenneth W. Merrell) the fourth edition of a textbook entitled Behavioral, Social, and Emotional Assessment for Children and Adolescents (Routledge, 2013).

Danielle M. Parisi Damico, Ph.D.

Research Scientist, Amplify Education, Inc. Dr. Parisi Damico is Research Scientist with Amplify. She is a school psychologist whose work emphasizes prevention and early intervention for improving academic and social outcomes for students. She conducts research and provides professional development in the areas of response to intervention/multi-tiered systems of support, evidence-based instructional practices, and data-based decision making.

Chapter 1

About Strong Start

Strong Kids™: A Social and Emotional Learning Curriculum consists of five brief and practical social and emotional learning (SEL) programs designed to promote the SEL of children in prekindergarten through 12th grade. Strong Start—Grades K–2, the second volume in the Strong Kids curriculum, is for children in kindergarten through second grade. It is designed to be both a prevention and early intervention (EI) program with applications for high-functioning and typically developing children as well as those with learning or behavioral challenges. The curriculum can be used in various settings, including general and special education classrooms, group counseling, and youth treatment facilities.

Promoting Children’s Mental Health

The mission of schools is not limited to promoting academic skills; it also includes supporting mental health development. High-quality education should teach young people to interact socially and respectfully; practice healthy behaviors; and contribute ethically to their communities. Teaching positive social, emotional, and behavioral skills is a critical challenge facing society today, as many children are at risk for developing behavioral, social, and mental health problems.

Evidence of Social and Emotional Learning

Social and emotional learning (SEL) programs are important for effective instruction aimed at teaching essential skills to children and adolescents. Programs have shown statistical improvements in social-emotional skills, behavior, and academic performance, indicating the importance of comprehensive SEL intervention in school settings.

Social and Emotional Needs of Kindergarten and Primary Grade Children

Curricula for kindergarten and primary grade children must consider unique developmental needs, including cognitive, social, and emotional factors. Programs should be concrete, use familiar examples, and engage children effectively. Primary grade children are learning how to form friendships, negotiate social interactions, and develop emotional language.

Model for Preventing Behavioral and Emotional Problems

Educational researchers have adapted public health prevention models for schools, which include three levels of prevention for students: primary prevention for those not experiencing difficulties, secondary prevention for those at risk, and tertiary prevention for those with significant problems. Effective SEL programs focus on primary prevention to create a positive school climate and educational resilience among all students.