About the program

Second Step is a universal program designed to increase students’ school success/ school-readiness, improve peer relationships, and decrease problem behaviours by promoting social-emotional competence and self-regulation.

Program structure

Learning kits are available for children at each age level on the Second Step website.

Evaluation and effectiveness

Second Step has undergone multiple radomised controlled trials . The program has been shown to be beneficial as a universal, health promotion and preventative program for preschool and kindergarten-aged children. Results also show significant improvements in social, emotional, problem solving skills and lower frequency of disruptive behaviour (including verbal and physical aggression) post implementation in the classroom. 

A full list of research findings is available on the Second Step website.