REAL Step Learning - Building emotionally intelligent, conne
What is REAL STEP?
The REAL STEP Curriculum is a practical, research-based Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) program designed to foster emotional intelligence (EQ), self-regulation, and strong relational skills in students from elementary through high school.
Rooted in attachment-informed practices, REAL STEP helps educators create a safe, supportive, and wellbeing-focused learning environment where all students can thrive.
REAL STEP stands for:
- Relationships
- Emotion awareness
- Attachment-informed practices
- Learning readiness
- Self-regulation
- Thoughtful connection
- Empowered learners
- Positive culture
Why Focus on EQ, Self-Regulation, and Attachment?
In today’s classrooms, academic success is deeply connected to emotional wellbeing. REAL STEP equips students with skills to:
- Recognize and manage emotions
- Build strong relationships with peers and adults
- Develop a sense of belonging and trust
- Practice self-regulation and resilience
- Navigate conflict and stress effectively
- Create a positive contribution to classroom culture
The program draws on the Six Seconds model of EQ, attachment theory, and current neuroscience to support whole-child development.
How We Make It Easy for Educators
REAL STEP is designed to fit into your busy school day with minimal prep:
- Ready-to-use lesson plans (age appropriate, video based lessons)
- Engaging worksheets for each lesson
- Slide decks for classroom use
- Flexible pacing: implement weekly, bi-weekly, or as fits your schedule
- No SEL background required — everything is scripted and simple to follow
- Consistent structure that makes it easy for students and teachers to build routines around SEL
Optional: REAL STEP+ Coaching
Even in the most supportive classrooms, some students occasionally need a little extra help to navigate emotions, stress, or relationships.
That’s where our Forward Walking individual coaching sessions come in — providing an added layer of support, without adding strain to teachers or school support staff.
Forward Walking offers 20-minute, one-on-one coaching sessions that complement the REAL STEP curriculum. These sessions give students a safe space to:
- Process difficult emotions
- Build self-regulation strategies
- Strengthen resilience
- Foster connection with a caring adult
- Reinforce EQ skills taught in the classroom
Our trained coaches work closely with school teams to align with your goals and ensure a seamless experience for students. No additional prep or oversight is required from teachers — we handle scheduling, delivery, and communication.
Forward Walking helps schools offer individualized support — without adding to teacher workload.