Stepping Up to Life Skills

For grades 3-6. This program instills the fundamental life skills students need in a warm-hearted, uproarious skit performed by Michael Pritchard and our lovable, zany puppet characters. Our problem-solving format sparks student discussion in guided brain-storming sessions with Michael bringing his trademark insight and caring humor to research-based solutions.

Each lesson includes two video segments, plus a problem-solving leader's guide is available online which provides detailed questions for a scripted discussion as well as follow-up activities.

Lesson 1: Controlling Your Anger

Controlling anger is one of the most difficult life skills to master, particularly when living with the hyped-up emotions of reality TV, raging internet posts, violent video games and mayhem-filled action movies. When Dieter realizes he lost control and hurt another player on the soccer field, he learns that he can manage his anger and develop a range of positive methods for self-control. Key social-emotional skills of self-monitoring, identification of triggers for anger, impulse control, stress reduction and calming methods are instilled.

Lesson 2: Resolving Conflicts Creatively

The ability to resolve conflicts and get along with others is key to a happy, successful life and this engaging program explores proven methods of conflict resolution with a humorous, breezy touch. When Zazi and Dieter have to complete a high-stakes assignment, their different work styles create an uproarious conflict which can only be solved through a conflict resolution session with Michael. Our impetuous pair learns a variety of conflict resolution methods, including: taking turns, no name calling, expressing feelings positively, listening actively and being respectful.

Lesson 3: Learning to Bounce Back

Resiliency is a critical life skill for the successful navigation of the emotional ups and downs of the teen years. When Zazi suffers a life-changing injury she must confront an overwhelming sense of sadness and revisit feelings of abandonment and loss which resurface during her crisis. With the consistent and caring help of her pal Deiter and Michael's wise counsel, Zazi finds ways to deal with her emotions, cope with depression, reconnect with others, express her feelings and rediscover her zest for life and the nurturing relationships which sustain her.

Lesson 4: Choosing to Do Your Best

This capstone program explores the intellectual and emotional skills essential for doing your best and achieving success. When Dieter and Zazi face a challenging science test, they must decide between easy short cuts and working hard. With Michael's help, they learn that they can manage their time, develop good study habits, apply themselves to difficult challenges and learn new material in exciting and fun ways. The dangers of cheating, the pleasure of project-based learning and the love of learning are also highlighted.

Awards: Gold Aurora Award