Social Emotional Learning that Actually Works: Understanding Challenging Behaviors and Mariposa's Method
Ditch the tantrums, the tears, and the tired SEL myths - creating thriving connections with your students (even the challenging ones).
FORMAT: Self-paced
TIME: Complete at your own pace · ~3 hrs of content
CREDIT: 3 MSDE COK Clock Hours · Child Development (2) + Professionalism (1)
Social-Emotional Learning That Actually Works:
Instructors: Jenny Barrett, M.Ed. and Dr. Anne Townsend, Ph.D., M.A.
Course Description: Tired of SEL trainings that don’t translate to the classroom? This course goes beyond the basics to help you understand the why behind behavior—and gives you practical, science-backed tools you can use right away.
Through the Mariposa Method, you’ll shift your mindset, build deeper connections with your students, and learn how to manage both challenging behavior and your own stress. This is a relationship driven approach to building social emotional skills with a lasting impact for you and your classroom.
What You'll Gain
- A new lens on challenging behavior—and how to prevent it
- An approach to stay calm and connected, even during power struggles
- Insights into how traditional SEL methods miss the mark
- The power of neutral, nonjudgmental language to build trust and reduce bias
What educators say about learning empathy through the Mariposa Method
Empathy is one of five core skills in the Mariposa Method — these quotes come from educators who learned it as part of our full training program.
"It is an approach which focuses on the whole picture, not just the misbehavior. ... at the same time helps provide support and solutions in the here and now."
— Teacher
"I learned that behavior is a way of communicating and the way I respond matters — because children pay attention to our actions and reactions. If I stay calm and help them through it, it can make a big difference."
— Educator, 2026
"I now understand that many of the behaviors that I had viewed as willful disobedience are actually lagging social skills that require empathy much more than discipline. So now instead of correcting I teach."
— Educator, 2024
Self-paced components include:
- Short, digestible mini-lessons to watch at your own pace
- Interactive online and live exercises to reinforce key concepts
- Downloadable resources with practical tip sheets
- Teacher resources, including videos and articles
- Videos of teacher-student interactions using the Mariposa Method
- Reflection prompts and opportunities for feedback
Requirements:
- A working computer with internet access
- An open mind and receptive mindset
Recommended For:
- Teachers, educators, and caregivers of children under age 8
- Both early-career and seasoned educators
Career Development:
- Approved for 3 COK Credit Hours (2 Child Development + 1 Professional Development)
MSDE Course ID: ME-04082024-01 - Maryland educators: MSDE reimbursement eligible — qualifying educators may receive up to $400/year toward professional development.
- Washington DC educators: DC TAP/OSSE Approved — listed on the OSSE Certified Trainers list.
This course is offered in both a standalone or bundled with Reducing Stress and Building Trust: The Power of Empathy
Backed by independent research at Johns Hopkins University. See the research →
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any prior training to take this course?
No — this course is designed for both new and experienced educators. No background in SEL or the Mariposa Method is required.
How long does the course take?
Approximately 3 hours of content, completed entirely at your own pace.
Will I earn professional development credit?
Yes — this course is approved for 3 MSDE COK Clock Hours (Child Development + Professionalism). Maryland educators may also be eligible for up to $400/year in reimbursement.
Is this course right for me if I don’t work in Maryland?
Yes — the skills taught apply to any early childhood setting. The MSDE credit is specific to Maryland, but the course is open to educators everywhere.
What’s the difference between this course and the full Mariposa Method training?
This course introduces you to the Mariposa Method and the science behind challenging behaviors — giving you practical tools you can use right away. It’s a great standalone course or a first step toward the full program.
