Emotional-behavioral disorder (EBD) educational labels are on the rise within the public school system. Children are labeled earlier due to community programs and preschools idenifying the unique needs of these children. Special education strategies are needed to support children in the early education years. Yet, many children are still failing as they have difficulty handling frustration, cannot make their needs known without violence, and have trouble with simple rules, playing with others, regulating emotions, and asking adults for help. Occupational therapists have a unique set of skills to address children with an EBD label in the school system. Introducing structured yet fluid activities that are based on a child’s occupations can develop appropriate social skills in chlldren with a EBD label. The Program for the Development of Self-Esteem, Self-Advocacy, Self-Regulation, and Life Skills (The PEARL) will address the need for suitable social skills introduction at school by embedding skills into daily routines in school and at home. The PEARL will address the need for children wit an EBD label to build proper social skills, thereby influencing their lives in school and the community.
