Adapted Strong Kids Curriculum for English Language Learners During COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Mental Health Interventions

Background:

• Social/emotional development is crucial for English language learners (ELLs).
• Existing interventions may not adequately address the unique needs of ELLs.
• Online delivery offers a scalable solution for mental health support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a culturally and linguistically adapted online Strong Kids curriculum for ELLs.
• To assess the impact on social/emotional development and internalizing symptoms.
• To explore student experiences and perceived benefits of the virtual program.

Main Methods:

• A culturally and linguistically adapted Strong Kids curriculum was delivered online.
• Quantitative data assessed changes in social/emotional knowledge and internalizing symptoms.
• Qualitative data explored students' experiences with emotion identification, management, and virtual learning.

Main Results:

• Students demonstrated increased social/emotional knowledge, particularly in reducing internalizing symptoms.
• Qualitative feedback indicated enhanced ability to identify and manage emotions.
• Students successfully applied social/emotional learning and mindfulness concepts in the virtual setting.

Conclusions:

• The adapted online Strong Kids curriculum shows promise for supporting ELLs' social/emotional development.
• Virtual delivery is a feasible and beneficial modality for this population.
• Findings have implications for school counselors and mental health providers serving diverse student groups.