How does the Toolbox curriculum work?

The Common Language: In fourteen Units, teachers introduce the concept of personal “tools” that each child has within themselves; the important role of feelings and each of the twelve tools. The concepts are explained at each grade level in age-appropriate ways.  Literature, puppets, journaling and role-plays bring the Tools to life and help children to practice them.

Because the Tools are immediately useful to children, they quickly adopt them.  Teachers report that students start using the Tools to self-reflect on their choices and begin to positively manage themselves within the first few weeks. Empowered students contribute their unique voice with self-confidence creating a sense of belonging.  Each Tool builds on the last, creating a synergy where the whole set of Tools is greater than the sum of its parts.

HomeConnection: Each lesson includes a letter home, called “Tool of the Week.”  The letter explains the Tool and offers families suggestions for using the Tool at home.  A special HomeConnection activity is also sent home – engaging students and families in a fun activity that reinforces the meaning and use of that week’s tool.

Applying the Tools: Once the children are familiar with the common language and practices of all twelve tools, the next phase is to put them to work in familiar school situations with both personal and social issues.  When problems present themselves, teachers can simply ask, “What three tools have you tried?”  Children realize they have the power to solve their own problems.  Teachers and playground monitors are amazed at how much less they have to intervene.

Going Deeper: As children advance through the grades the Tools become part of the school culture – as one Principal said it:  “Toolbox is just a way of being.”  With experience children and teachers gain a deeper level of sophistication in their personal and social awareness.  Dovetail Learning offers numerous lesson options (playwriting, journaling, cross-age teaching, assemblies, etc.) to support this growth.  Toolbox integrates naturally with every other aspect of the curriculum and enhances the development of civility in the entire school.