Introduction
The Confident Life Program™ is a curriculum that won the 2023 Safe Family Seal of Approval for Innovation in Curriculum, by the Child Safety Network. It is designed to complement existing Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) programs for students in grades K-3. This educational program is offered in a 9-week accelerated course, or a 15-week full-year course, with a suggested schedule of 5-weeks in the fall, 5-weeks in the winter and the final 5-week in the spring. Each week of the program consists of 1 x 35-55-minute class.
Here are some key features of the program:
- Social and Self-Awareness: Activities and lessons that help children understand their own emotions and recognize the emotions of others.
- Self-Regulation: Techniques and practices for managing emotions and behaviors in various situations.
- Relationship-Building: Exercises that promote effective communication, cooperation, and the development of positive relationships.
- Responsible Decision-Making: Guidance on making ethical and constructive choices about personal and social behavior.
- Auditory, Visual and Kinesthetic: Effective learning through the use of books, films, role-play and activity worksheets.
- Interactive Activities: Engaging exercises that involve role-playing, storytelling, and group discussions to reinforce learning.
- Stories and Scenarios: Age-appropriate stories that illustrate key concepts and provide relatable examples for children.
- Skill-Building Exercises: Practical activities that children can practice both in the classroom and at home to develop their social-emotional skills.
- Enhanced Emotional Well-Being: Helps children understand and manage their emotions, leading to better emotional health.
- Improved Interpersonal Skills: Encourages positive interactions and relationships with peers and adults.
- Academic Success: Supports overall success in school by fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
The Confident Life Program™ aims to create a foundation for lifelong social-emotional competence, helping children navigate their world with confidence and empathy.
Program consists of one 30 to 45-minute segment per week. 5 segments (5 consecutive weeks) in the fall, 5 in the winter and 5 in the spring.
The Confident Life Program™ is a curriculum that won the 2023 Safe Family Seal of Approval for Innovation in Curriculum, by the Child Safety Network. It is designed to complement existing Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) programs for students in grades K-3. This educational program is offered in a 9-week accelerated course, or a 15-week full-year course, with a suggested schedule of 5-weeks in the fall, 5-weeks in the winter and the final 5-week in the spring. Each week of the program consists of 1 x 35-55-minute class.
The Confident Life Program™ extends past the classroom and helps families to continue the age-appropriate lessons for children. For every day the students experience this curriculum, their teacher will send a two-page Parent's Guide home with the students. Parents, grandparents and caregivers are encouraged to review the guides and have discussions with their children regarding the lessons learned.
The Confident Life Program™ includes a guide for teachers and administrators to provide them with additional information while they administer the program to students. For each page of the 9-15 week program, teachers have access to this guide which provides additional information or suggestions to assist their class.
Teachers and counselors appreciate how user-friendly this curriculum is to use within their classrooms. Each school or youth organization implementing the Confident Life Program™, will receive access to a comprehensive, yet short training video. Additionally, each institution will select one individual to be the main administrator, and that individual will have access to a Confident Life Program™ Coach. Stay tuned for our upcoming admin training videos!
The Confident Life Program™ is designed to complement existing Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) programs for students in grades K-3. Here are some key elements of the program:
Core Components
- Social and Self-Awareness: Activities and lessons that help children understand their own emotions and recognize the emotions of others.
- Self-Regulation: Techniques and practices for managing emotions and behaviors in various situations.
- Relationship-Building: Exercises that promote effective communication, cooperation, and the development of positive relationships.
- Responsible Decision-Making: Guidance on making ethical and constructive choices about personal and social behavior.
Program Structure
- Interactive Activities: Engaging exercises that involve role-playing, storytelling, and group discussions to reinforce learning.
- Stories and Scenarios: Age-appropriate stories that illustrate key concepts and provide relatable examples for children.
- Skill-Building Exercises: Practical activities that children can practice both in the classroom and at home to develop their social-emotional skills.
Benefits
- Enhanced Emotional Well-Being: Helps children understand and manage their emotions, leading to better emotional health.
- Improved Interpersonal Skills: Encourages positive interactions and relationships with peers and adults.
- Academic Success: Supports overall success in school by fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
The program aims to create a foundation for lifelong social-emotional competence, helping children navigate their world with confidence and empathy.
Yes, there are several success stories from the Confident Life Program™. Here are a few highlights:
- Improved Classroom Behavior: Teachers have reported significant improvements in classroom behavior. For example, one school noted a 30% reduction in behavioral
incidents after implementing the program. Students became more adept at managing their emotions and resolving conflicts peacefully.
- Enhanced Academic Performance: In another case, a school district observed a noticeable increase in academic performance among students participating in the program. The focus on self-regulation and responsible decision-making helped students stay more engaged and focused during lessons.
- Positive Social Interactions: Parents and teachers have shared stories of children forming stronger, more positive relationships with their peers. One parent mentioned that their child, who previously struggled with making friends, became more confident and started to enjoy social interactions more.
These stories illustrate the program’s impact on both emotional well-being and academic success, helping children develop the skills they need to thrive in various aspects of their lives.
The Confident Life Program™ includes comprehensive teacher training to ensure educators are well-prepared to implement the curriculum effectively. Here are some key aspects of the training:
Training Components
- Workshops and Seminars: Teachers participate in interactive workshops and seminars that cover the core components of the program, such as social and self-awareness, self-regulation, relationship-building, and responsible decision-making.
- Hands-On Practice: Educators engage in role-playing and scenario-based activities to practice the techniques and strategies they will use in the classroom.
- Resource Materials: Teachers receive a variety of resource materials, including lesson plans, activity guides, and assessment tools, to support their implementation of the program.
Support and Follow-Up
- Ongoing Support: The program provides continuous support through follow-up sessions, online resources, and a community of practice where teachers can share experiences and strategies.
- Feedback and Assessment: Teachers are encouraged to provide feedback on the training and the program’s implementation, which helps in refining and improving the curriculum.
Benefits for Teachers
- Increased Confidence: The training helps teachers feel more confident in their ability to teach social-emotional skills and manage classroom dynamics effectively.
- Professional Development: Participation in the training contributes to teachers’ professional growth and development, enhancing their overall teaching practice.
This structured approach ensures that teachers are not only knowledgeable about the program’s content but also skilled in delivering it in a way that resonates with their students.
The teacher training for the Confident Life Program™ typically lasts two to three days. This duration allows for a thorough understanding of the program’s components and provides ample time for hands-on practice and interactive sessions.
Training Schedule
- Day 1: Introduction to SEL concepts and the core components of the program. ● Day 2: Hands-on practice with activities, role-playing, and scenario-based learning. ● Day 3: Review of resource materials, assessment tools, and strategies for effective implementation.
Follow-Up Support
After the initial training, teachers receive ongoing support through:
- Follow-up sessions: Periodic check-ins to address any questions or challenges. ● Online resources: Access to additional materials and a community forum for sharing experiences and strategies.
This structured approach ensures that teachers are well-equipped to deliver the program effectively and confidently.
Absolutely, parents can play a crucial role in the Confident Life Program™. Their involvement can enhance the effectiveness of the program and reinforce the skills children are learning. Here are some ways parents can participate:
Parent Workshops
- Educational Sessions: Parents can attend workshops that explain the core components of the program and provide strategies for supporting their children’s social-emotional development at home.
- Interactive Activities: These sessions often include interactive activities that parents can do with their children to practice SEL skills together.
Home Activities
- Take-Home Materials: The program provides materials and activities that parents can use at home to reinforce what their children are learning in school.
- Daily Practices: Parents are encouraged to integrate simple SEL practices into daily routines, such as discussing emotions, practicing mindfulness, and role-playing different social scenarios.
Communication and Feedback
- Regular Updates: Schools often send home updates about the program’s progress and upcoming activities, keeping parents informed and engaged.
- Feedback Opportunities: Parents can provide feedback on the program and share their observations about their children’s progress, which helps in tailoring the program to better meet students’ needs.
Benefits for Parents
- Enhanced Understanding: Parents gain a deeper understanding of social-emotional learning and its importance, which can improve their own interactions with their children. ● Stronger Parent-Child Relationships: Participating in the program can strengthen the bond between parents and children, as they work together on developing important life skills.
Involving parents creates a supportive environment that extends beyond the classroom, helping children apply their SEL skills in various settings.
To access the Confident Life Program™, you can follow these steps:
Steps to Access
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the Motivated To Act website.
- Request Form: Fill out the Confident Life Program™ Request Form. This form will ask for details about your school or organization, the grades that will be participating, and the number of students involved.
- Contact Information: You can also reach out directly via email at
info@motivatedtoact.org or call (858) 922-1724 for more information and assistance. Additional Resources
- Workshops and Training: Information about teacher training and workshops is available on the website.
- Support and Updates: Sign up for their newsletter to receive updates and additional resources.
This process ensures that you have all the necessary information and support to successfully implement the program in your school or organization.
Yes, schools can customize the Confident Life Program™ to better fit their specific needs and contexts. Here are some ways customization can be achieved:
Customization Options
- Tailored Lesson Plans: Schools can adapt the lesson plans to address specific social-emotional challenges or goals relevant to their student population. 2. Flexible Scheduling: The program can be integrated into existing curricula or scheduled as standalone sessions, depending on the school’s timetable and priorities. 3. Cultural Relevance: Activities and examples can be modified to reflect the cultural backgrounds and experiences of the students, making the program more relatable and effective.
- Focus Areas: Schools can emphasize certain components of the program, such as self-regulation or relationship-building, based on the needs of their students.
Implementation Support
- Consultation Services: The program offers consultation services to help schools design and implement a customized version of the curriculum.
- Ongoing Feedback: Schools can provide feedback during the implementation process, allowing for continuous adjustments and improvements.
Benefits of Customization
- Increased Engagement: Tailoring the program to fit the specific needs of students can lead to higher engagement and participation.
- Better Outcomes: Customization ensures that the program addresses the unique challenges and strengths of the student body, leading to more effective outcomes.
By allowing for customization, the Confident Life Program™ ensures that it can meet the diverse needs of different schools and student populations.
Yes, there is a cost associated with the Confident Life Program™. The exact pricing can vary depending on factors such as the number of students, the specific components of the program being implemented, and any additional support or customization required.
How to Get Pricing Information
To get detailed pricing information, you can:
- Register Your School Here: Confident Life Program™ Request Form
- Request a Quote: Fill out the Confident Life Program™ Request Form with details about your school or organization. This will help the program administrators provide a tailored quote based on your specific needs.
- Contact Directly: You can also reach out via email at info@motivatedtoact.org or call (858) 922-1724 for more personalized assistance.
This approach ensures you receive accurate and relevant information tailored to your school’s requirements.
Benefits and ROI:
The Confident Life Program™ offers a strong return on investment (ROI) by positively impacting students’ social-emotional development, academic performance, and overall school climate. Here are some key points to consider:
Academic and Behavioral Improvements
- Enhanced Academic Performance: Schools implementing the program have reported improvements in students’ academic achievements. By fostering better self-regulation and focus, students are more engaged and perform better academically.
- Reduced Behavioral Issues: There is often a significant reduction in behavioral incidents, leading to a more positive and conducive learning environment.
Long-Term Benefits
- Social-Emotional Skills: Students develop crucial social-emotional skills that benefit them throughout their lives, including better emotional regulation, improved relationships, and responsible decision-making.
- Positive School Climate: The program contributes to a more positive school climate, which can lead to higher teacher satisfaction and retention, as well as improved student attendance and engagement.
Financial Considerations
- Cost Savings: By reducing behavioral issues and improving academic performance, schools can save on costs associated with disciplinary actions and remedial education. 2. Investment in Future Success: The skills students gain from the program can lead to long-term success, reducing future costs related to mental health and social services.
Measuring ROI
To measure the ROI of the Confident Life Program™, schools can track metrics such as:
- Academic performance: Test scores, grades, and overall academic achievement. ● Behavioral incidents: Frequency and severity of behavioral issues.
- Attendance rates: Student attendance and engagement levels.
- Teacher and student feedback: Surveys and feedback forms to gauge satisfaction and perceived impact.
By evaluating these metrics, schools can quantify the benefits of the program and justify the investment.
Yes, there are grants available that can help cover the costs of implementing the Confident Life Program™. Here are some steps and resources to explore:
Steps to Find Grants
- Check with the Program Provider: Contact the Confident Life Program™ directly to inquire about any specific grants or funding opportunities they might offer or know about. You can reach them via email at info@motivatedtoact.org or call (858) 922-1724.
- Local Education Grants: Look into local education grants provided by your state or district. Many educational grants support SEL programs.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Organizations like the Center for Christianity and Public Life offer grants that might align with the goals of the Confident Life Program™. 4. Corporate Sponsorships: Some corporations have community grant programs that support educational initiatives, including SEL programs.
Resources to Explore
- Grants.gov: A comprehensive database of federal grants where you can search for education-related funding opportunities.
- Foundation Center: Provides information on various foundations that offer grants for educational programs.
- Local Community Foundations: Many community foundations offer grants to support local schools and educational programs.
Tips for Applying
- Align with Grant Goals: Ensure your application clearly aligns with the goals and criteria of the grant.
- Highlight Impact: Emphasize the potential positive impact of the Confident Life Program™ on students’ social-emotional development and academic success. ● Provide Data: Include any relevant data or success stories that demonstrate the program’s effectiveness.
By exploring these resources and following these steps, you can increase your chances of securing funding to support the implementation of the Confident Life Program™ in your school.
“Every child deserves to learn in a safe and loving environment that is free of bullying, and the Confident Life Program™ provides the social-emotional tools and experiences that give them agency to be a leader and do the right thing when confronting bullies and bullying."
– Dr. Michael McQuary Ed D
“Social-Emotional Learning is as important as the educational academic learning. In a classroom, you have so many different kids that learn in so many different ways. And what the Confident Life Program™ has done, is create a buffet, if you will, of things that the kids can connect to.”
– Sarah Saluta, Executive Director San Diego Cooperative Charter School
"Junga, the Dancing Yeti has an excellent message for children in regards to bullying: Empathy for others is a lesson we can all learn and apply. Diversity is a gift but we aren't always taught to embrace it. We are taught to be afraid of people different than ourselves which can turn into someone bullying those different from themselves. Studies show that bullying and discrimination is prevalent with children as early as pre-school and that teaching compassion and acceptance for those that look different from us, is a step in the right direction."
- Dr. Kathie Mathis, Psy.D, D.D, NCP, CEO California Cognitive Behavioral Institute
"Growing up the baby of four girls, my esteem was always compromised. Call me a “late bloomer”. Junga the Dancing Yeti delves into the confidence and esteem building tools that are needed today to combat bullying and raise esteem on every level. Kids, YOU MATTER and no one should tell you differently."
- Tanya Brown – Youngest sister of the late Nicole Brown Simpson
"The characters in the book are unique and their uniqueness show how conflicts can arise but also how they need each other when they encounter trouble. The lessons about diversity, anti-bullying, and cooperation are illustrated in this book. Children can learn these important lessons through the adventures of a young dancing yeti and his new friend, Heidi. The lesson plans will help parents and educators guide conversation with young children so they can develop the emotional and social skills needed in their own interactions and relationships with others."
- Maria George, Child Development Professor
"In "Yeti, Set, Go!" the feelings of the characters are so relatable for children playing a sport for the first time especially when learning the moves might be a challenge. This book shows the real world of learning, of bullies, of friends, of coaches, of treats and solutions to problems that might surface. They will learn even as they are entertained by the actions in the story. I look forward to sharing this with my own grandchildren who are venturing into this arena."
- Sylvia Whitlock, Ph.D. in Education, Psychotherapist (MFT)
Junga the Dancing Yeti
Here are some of the main characters in the “Junga the Dancing Yeti” series of books and films used throughout the Confident Life Program™:
- Junga: The protagonist, a young yeti who loves to dance. Junga is unique among his family for his love of dancing, which he uses to stay warm in the cold mountains. His journey teaches children about bravery, acceptance, and overcoming bullying.
- Grandma Yeti: Junga’s wise and caring grandmother. She accompanies Junga on his journey to find a safer place to live and helps him navigate the challenges they face. Each Junga story ends with a list of “Grandma Yeti’s Tips”, to summarize important lessons from the story.
- Heidi: A friend of Junga who plays a significant role in the stories, particularly in teaching lessons about friendship and dealing with bullying.
- Coach Hawksie: The wise and trusted sports coach who provides valuable lessons on fair play.
- Groth: One of Junga’s friends who learns important lessons about overcoming adversity and making new friends.
- The Condors: Initially antagonistic characters who capture Junga and Grandma Yeti, but through the story, they learn about acceptance and understanding.
- Brenda: Not everyone learns quickly how to adapt to corrective behavior. She will need more time to improve her coping skills as she navigates through childhood.
These characters, along with others, help convey important messages about diversity, inclusion, and resilience through their interactions and adventures.
“Junga the Dancing Yeti” has garnered several prestigious awards for its impactful storytelling and animation. Here are some of the notable awards:
- Best Children’s Book: Recognized for its engaging narrative and positive messages.
- Best Educational Film – Animation: Entertaining while educating children.
- Best Family Short Film – Animation: Engaging for all family members to watch together and discuss the strong values presented.
- Best Animated Short Film: Awarded for its creative animation and storytelling.
- Bullying Prevention Award: Honored for its efforts in promoting anti-bullying themes.
- Diversity and Inclusion Award: Celebrated for its focus on anti-discrimination and inclusion.
- Educational Content Award: Acknowledged for its educational value and contribution to children’s learning.
- Audience Choice Award: Voted by audiences for its popularity and impact.
- Best Original Character: Awarded for the unique and memorable character of Junga.
- Best Original Song Awards: Three songs from the films have received this distinction due to the positive and thoughtful messages for children.
These awards highlight the series’ dedication to creating meaningful and entertaining content for children.
“Junga the Dancing Yeti” explores several important themes that resonate with children and adults alike. Here are some of the key themes:
- Bullying Prevention: The series emphasizes the importance of standing up against bullying and promotes kindness and empathy. Junga’s experiences teach children how to handle bullies and support their peers.
- Acceptance and Inclusion: Junga’s unique love for dancing sets him apart, but it also becomes a strength. The series highlights the value of accepting and celebrating differences, fostering an inclusive environment.
- Resilience and Perseverance: Junga’s journey is filled with challenges, but his determination and resilience help him overcome obstacles. This theme encourages children to stay strong and keep trying, even when things get tough.
- Friendship and Cooperation: The series showcases the power of friendship and teamwork. Junga and his friends work together to solve problems and support each other, demonstrating the importance of cooperation.
- Courage and Bravery: Junga often faces situations that require bravery, whether it’s standing up to bullies or embarking on a journey to find a new home. This theme inspires children to be courageous in their own lives.
- Environmental Awareness: The series also touches on themes of environmental stewardship, as Junga and his friends navigate their natural surroundings and learn to respect and protect their environment.
These themes are woven into the stories in a way that is engaging and accessible for young readers, making “Junga the Dancing Yeti” both entertaining and educational.
The creation of “Junga the Dancing Yeti” was inspired by Stephen Tako’s personal experiences and his passion for promoting anti-bullying and inclusion. As a motivational speaker and anti-bullying advocate, Tako wanted to create a character and stories that would resonate with children and teach them valuable life lessons.
Here are some key inspirations behind the series:
- Personal Experiences: Stephen Tako drew from his own experiences with bullying and discrimination to create a character that children could relate to and learn from. Junga’s journey reflects the challenges and triumphs that many children face.
- Promoting Positive Values: The series aims to instill values such as bravery, acceptance, and resilience in young readers. By showcasing Junga’s adventures and the lessons he learns, Tako hopes to empower children to stand up against bullying and embrace diversity.
- Educational Goals: Tako wanted to create a fun and engaging way to teach children about important social and emotional skills. The stories are designed to be both entertaining and educational, helping children develop empathy, self-esteem, and cooperation.
- Creative Storytelling: The whimsical and imaginative world of Junga allows for creative storytelling that captures children’s attention while delivering meaningful messages. The character of Junga, with his love for dancing, adds a unique and joyful element to the stories.
These inspirations have helped shape “Junga the Dancing Yeti” into a beloved series that not only entertains but also educates and inspires young readers.
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