We typically learn more effectively when applying our knowledge in real-life situations. That’s why PEDALS offers expert-level coaching in the classroom. The aim is to support teachers in successfully implementing the PEDALS curriculum and to help children develop and enhance their social-emotional skills.
Our approach.
PEDALS uses a strengths-based approach to resolve challenging classroom situations. Our coaches work in collaboration with teachers to model positive interactions. This approach not only enhances the relationship between teachers and coaches but also ensures that educators feel supported and confident in their roles.
Coaches emphasize the importance of expressing emotions and managing classroom dynamics through constructive self-talk, equipping teachers with tools to foster a positive learning environment.
During the two-year program, PEDALS coaches closely observe classroom interactions, serve as confidential advisors, and provide targeted feedback to help teachers implement the SEL curriculum successfully. With this hands-on guidance, educators can navigate various challenges and adapt their teaching strategies to improve both student engagement and educational outcomes.
Responsive and dynamic.
PEDALS coaches spend a significant amount of time in classrooms. They develop an empathetic partnership with classroom staff and work alongside them to set specific goals and review progress regularly. As coaches respond to the individual needs of the classroom and teacher, they provide targeted information and coaching support. This approach has a cascading and sustainable effect: Coaches model for teachers, teachers model for children, and children model for each other. This dynamic approach to social-emotional growth is at the heart of the PEDALS program.
Together, teachers and coaches reinforce a range of lessons for children, including:
- Identifying and naming feelings
- Asking for what they need
- Caring and helping
- Fair ways to play
- How to make friends
Building on strengths.
Our strengths-based model builds productive relationships and creates a positive learning environment. Coaches offer strategies to educators for regulating their emotions and managing the needs of their classrooms. Teachers are then better positioned to help children identify emotions and develop coping skills that promote resilience through every stage of life.
Administrative track.
PEDALS helps administrative professionals create a sustainable environment of improvement. We use a systematic approach, which involves completing organizational self-assessments twice a year. These assessments measure practices that support the implementation of PEDALS and help programs come up with specific goals to improve their ability to support social and emotional growth.
Our team has found that this process generates excitement and pride among program planners as they plan their next steps and see their progress reflected in the improvement of their scores.
Training opportunities.
PEDALS offers accessible and supportive training programs for schools, organizations, and parents to improve social-emotional learning implementation. Our presentations are welcoming and inclusive, promoting a comfortable learning environment for teachers and caregivers. The lessons break down complex concepts into manageable parts to facilitate understanding and conveyance to students.
Annual Kickoff – August
The PEDALS Year One Kickoff is an opportunity for teachers, school administrators, and the PEDALS team to come together for a day of fun, games, learning, and relationship-building. The event includes breakout sessions with a coach, content sharing, and an overview of the PEDALS model and the Second Step curriculum.
Participants will enjoy breakfast and lunch, fun raffles, and leave with some goodies to share. All teachers and assistants in their first year with PEDALS are required to attend.
Sustainability Retreat – by request
Our Sustainability Retreat is an event designed for PEDALS year-two teachers and their assistants. This training is mandatory and lasts for approximately three hours. The event includes breakout sessions with a coach, content sharing, raffles, and a delicious meal. The coaches aim to ensure that when the teachers attend this training, they will be able to sustain the PEDALS model in their classroom with accuracy and consistency.
Parent training – by request
The PEDALS Parent Training program provides families with a comprehensive overview of what they can anticipate from classroom teachers who participate in the program. During this event, families are introduced to their coach and are provided with parent materials through the Second Step curriculum. The PowerPoint presentation is typically presented at the agency’s “Parent Night” and typically spans for about an hour.
Calm Down Corner Training – by request
The PEDALS Calm Down Corner Training supports the Second Step curriculum. The training complements the calm-down poster, which helps children learn how to manage their emotions by taking deep breaths when feeling angry or sad.
Classroom teachers and their assistants are eligible to receive this training, which provides a comprehensive guide on how to create a safe space for children to manage their emotions. Additionally, the training provides insights on what materials teachers can use to make the space more inviting for children who exhibit strong emotions and challenging behaviors.
Become a PEDALS coach.
Are you an early childhood educator passionate about helping young learners thrive? If so, we invite you to consider joining PEDALS as a coach.
This role offers the opportunity to directly witness the positive transformation in children’s behavior and social-emotional growth. You can enter diverse classroom settings, enriching your experience and expanding your professional network by building strong relationships with educators. As a coach, you’ll have the autonomy to manage your caseload and enjoy the benefit of a flexible schedule.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher
- Minimum two years of classroom experience (teacher, aide)
- Experience with young children (e.g., social worker, home visitor)
- Excellent time management skills, capable of managing engagements with 20+ classrooms
