Social Emotional Learning is the process of developing the self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills that are vital for school, work, and life success.
“People with strong social-emotional skills are better able to cope with everyday challenges and benefit academically, professionally, and socially.”
“As a new member to the San Diego Kids First team, I am excited to be able to  support our community, children and their families. I am passionate about meeting children where they are and working with their families and communities to best support them and their success.This summer has included different services such as Social Emotional Learning, inclusion support, and school/camp observations. I strive to find ways to build skills with children to help them navigate life and grow in their confidence.”

There are 5 areas we can address in SEL; self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. In our sessions I take an individualized, developmental approach, working on the specific areas and skills your child needs for their social-emotional growth and development. This means that SEL can benefit children of all ages. As a teacher, I saw a huge demand for students who needed specific and intentional SEL instruction. With SEL support and education, children are better able to identify and label theirs or others emotions, build empathy, identify the appropriate response or coping skill, practice regulation practices, better initiate peer and adult interaction and practice responding to big versus little problems.

I am passionate about teaching and practicing these SEL skills because not only does it benefit the child, family and community now; but, also sets the foundation for life success. In sessions the child will be doing various fun activities that foster a learning environment through exploration, experience and patience. In this 1:1 setting students are able to get the individualized attention to set the foundation for success in small group social scenarios.

If you have any questions please feel free to email me directly at edpsych@sdkidsfirst.com, or for scheduling please contact our office manager at contact@sdkidsfirst.com.”

-Kaydon Schanberger, Specialist in Educational Psychology

As our team of professionals continues to grow, I am so grateful to be a part of such a cohesive and collaborative group. SDKF services for toddlers, children, teens, and families include:
  • Targeted ASD Assessments
  • Developmental, Psychological and MultiDisciplinary Evaluations (incorporating Academic Testing)
  • Social/Emotional Learning Curriculum (SEL)
  • In-home Behavior Intervention
  • In-home Executive Functioning Support
  • Individual, Family, and Couples Psychotherapy
  • Dyslexia Screening and Intervention
  • Handwriting without Tears /Dysgraphia Intervention
  • Social Skills Groups
  • Teen Psychotherapy Groups
  • Bright Stars Video Parenting Course for parents of bright children with ASD
  • Behavior Management/Parenting Sessions
  • IEP/504 Design and Consultation Services
  • Inclusion Support