Social Emotional Learning

Our framework for Social Emotional Learning at TBS is founded in research from The Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL). Our curriculum design and instructional decision-making focuses on the development of the five CASEL-identified competencies :

    • self-awareness,
    • self management,
    • social awareness
    • responsible decision making, and

Practical Life (Preschool)

Engaging preschool children in activities that foster independence, self-confidence and self-control are critical to the formation of their self-esteem now and in the years to come. Knowing they can act and interact confidently with everyday materials moves each child toward independence. These activities develop concentration, sense of order, attention to details, and small motor coordination. All of these deliberate activities encourage the child to match their development so they can honestly say, “I can do it myself.” Some of these activities include: table washing, pouring, folding, pushing in chairs, rolling a mat, walking carefully in the classroom, greeting people, using manners to express themselves, and lining up and sharing materials. Practical life skills are reinforced in the classroom and outside as children navigate their outdoor play environment.

Zones of Regulation (K-5)

The Zones of Regulation is a self-regulation curriculum designed to help students identify and name various emotional states. The second stage of the curriculum involves choosing tools to modify and adjust emotions, and ultimately develop more balanced internal responses. The third stage includes perspective taking. Once students understand their own emotional states, they can begin to apply their understanding to emotional states of others, developing social awareness and relationship skills.

Responsive Classroom (K--5)

Responsive Classroom strives to build a strong school climate through classroom management of positive discipline, student voice, and community building. Research shows outcomes of improved academic achievement and greater teacher effectiveness.

Developmental Designs (Middle School)

This framework builds community, perspective, and inclusion through integrated academic and social emotional learning. Student advisories work together to develop identity, resilience, responsible decision making, and collaboration.

Mindfulness (K-8)

Mindfulness is a mechanism for developing self-awareness, compassion, emotional resilience, and mental clarity. Research has shown evidence of improved overall well being for both adults and youth. Recent studies have shown outcomes of improved attention, improved self esteem, and improved self regulation for adolescents and youth.

The Berkeley School welcomes students of any race, color, religion, gender identity or expressionsexual orientation, ability, and national or ethnic origin and accords them all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally made available to students at The Berkeley School. TBS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, ability, and national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, employment policies, scholarship programs, and athletic or other school administered programs. 

Our Mission

Ignite Curious Minds
Awaken Generous Hearts
Engage a Changing World

K - 8 Campus

1310 University Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 665-8800

Early Childhood Campus

2030 Francisco Street
Berkeley, CA 94709
(510) 849-8340

The Berkeley School welcomes students of any race, color, religion, gender identity or expressionsexual orientation, ability, and national or ethnic origin and accords them all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally made available to students at The Berkeley School. TBS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, ability, and national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, employment policies, scholarship programs, and athletic or other school administered programs. 

Ignite Curious Minds
Awaken Generous Hearts
Engage a Changing World

K - 8 Campus

1310 University Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 665-8800

Early Childhood Campus

2030 Francisco Street
Berkeley, CA 94709
(510) 849-8340

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