Social and Emotional Learning in the Kindergarten Classroom: Evaluation of the "Strong Start" Curriculum
Early Childhood Education Journal
Short Title:
Early Childhood Education Journal
Format:
Journal Article
Publication Date:
2010/01/01/
Pages:
303 - 309
Sources ID:
90856
Notes:
Accession Number: EJ867590; Acquisition Information: Springer. 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-348-4505; e-mail: service-ny@springer.com; Web site: http://www.springerlink.com; Language: English; Education Level: Kindergarten; Reference Count: 0; Journal Code: APR2018; Level of Availability: Not available from ERIC; Publication Type: Academic Journal; Publication Type: Report; Entry Date: 2010
Visibility:
Public (group default)
Abstract:
(Show)
There has been increasing interest in the promotion of social and emotional learning in schools, and research has shown positive outcomes. However, relatively few studies have been conducted in kindergarten classrooms or considered the feasibility of kindergarten implementation. This study examined the effects of "Strong Start" on the social and emotional competence of 67 kindergarten students, using a time-series design. Four kindergarten teachers taught the ten "Strong Start" lessons in their classrooms. Results indicated gains in students' prosocial behaviors and decreases in internalizing behaviors, as rated by teachers and parents. Implementation integrity and teachers' ratings of social validity were high, suggesting the program's feasibility and potential effectiveness in natural classroom settings. Limitations and implications are discussed.