When we invite kids to be part of the process—when we shift from controlling to collaborating, we give them a sense of belonging and significance. These are the two core needs Positive Discipline reminds us to meet if we want to see lasting behavior change.

So, Why SEL? Why Now? Because no matter how brilliant your curriculum is, no matter how many classroom strategies you have in your back pocket—none of it lands without connection.

When a child is dysregulated—angry, anxious, overwhelmed—they’re not choosing to ignore you. Their brain is choosing survival. And in that state, learning is biologically impossible.