At least 125 families and teachers can participate in our current project. In the fall of the school year, we obtain baseline assessments of all the children participating in the project. We include social competence at home and at school, peer relationships and academic readiness in the assessments. We observe children in clinics as they interact with their parents and with a best friend and include assessments of social competence, attributions and problem-solving strategies. We also conduct home interviews, observe children at home and in the classroom, and obtain teacher evaluations on standardized measures.
Information is held in the strict confidence to the fullest extent permitted by law.
Parents meet in discussion groups of eight to 14 people for a minimum of 16 to 22 two-hour sessions. Children are given assignments to practice at home with parents. Teachers receive communications about the specific topics to be covered each week. Promoting child social competencies The Dinosaur Curriculum includes topics to promote social skills, problem-solving and anger management in children. Children meet in small groups of five to seven for a minimum of 16 to 22 two-hour sessions.