The S.T.A.R. Strategy is designed to develop independent and emotionally sound students. Educators who have implemented the strategy believe that it is an effective tool for students to solve problems and manage emotions in the moment.

Implementing social-emotional learning (SEL) practices in an after school program requires both time and staff development. It may seem difficult to incorporate SEL into the curriculum; however, there are simple and effective strategies that new and experienced educators can use to motivate students and build positive learning environments – also known as positive behavior support (PBS).

The S.T.A.R. Strategy, which stands for Stop, Think, Act and Review, is an approach educators can use to help students handle conflicts in the learning environment.

This strategy teaches students important social and emotional skills, helps to resolve conflicts and holds them accountable for their behavior:

• STOP. Calm down, and take time to reflect on your action.
• THINK. Consider your next step. Think about the ABCs of responsible behavior:
  -What are my alternatives?
  -What behavior will I choose?
  -What might be the consequences of the action I am about to take?
• ACT. Decide the best option to resolve the conflict, and act on it. Remember that you are responsible for your actions.
• REVIEW. What are the results of your action? Were you able to resolve the conflict, or did it require further action or assistance?

The S.T.A.R. Strategy is designed to develop independent and emotionally sound students. Educators who have implemented the strategy believe that it is an effective tool for students to solve problems and manage emotions in the moment.

To learn more, check out these social-emotional teaching strategies from TK California.