Implementing Social-Emotional and Behavioral Strategies in the Classroom | Ep 12

What if we could transform classrooms not just with academics, but with emotional intelligence?

We’re excited to share something special with you in this post—a behind-the-scenes look at one of our live training and Q&A sessions from inside the RITP at School program. In this recorded session, Kokeb, founder of Reflex Integration Through Play, and Fran, a seasoned educator and social-emotional behavioral specialist, lead a powerful to uncover what’s really working when it comes to creating emotionally responsive classrooms.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll take away:

  • Why Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Matters
  • Behavioral Management That Works
  • Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Approaches
  • …and so much more!

Whether you’re a teacher, school-based therapist, administrator, or parent, this conversation is packed with practical tools and strategies you can start using right away to support kids in thriving both emotionally and behaviorally

Why Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Matters

Fran brings her wealth of knowledge from working with pre-K to middle school students, emphasizing how crucial it is to prioritize both emotional regulation and behavioral strategies. As she explains, SEL isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a foundation for effective learning and connection.

Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Approaches

One of the episode’s highlights is Fran’s explanation of “top-down” and “bottom-up” approaches to behavior and learning. The top-down method focuses on higher-order thinking skills like reasoning and decision-making. Meanwhile, the bottom-up approach emphasizes body-based practices that regulate the nervous system and reflexes.

Together, these methods form a comprehensive approach to student success, addressing everything from impulsive behavior to classroom disengagement.

Behavioral Management That Works

Fran and Kokeb dive deep into behavioral management techniques that are not only effective but also sustainable. From simple classroom exercises to more in-depth behavioral interventions, Fran provides real-life examples from her own experience. These tools are designed to empower teachers to lead with empathy, structure, and clarity.

Equipping Educators for Success

Another key takeaway? The importance of educator support and training. Fran emphasizes that for SEL and behavioral strategies to work, teachers must feel equipped and supported. That means clear communication, regular training, and easy-to-implement resources that can be adapted for any age group.

Creating a Cohesive, Emotionally Responsive Classroom

Ultimately, this episode is about building classroom environments where students feel safe, heard, and supported — emotionally, behaviorally, and academically. With Fran’s guidance, listeners walk away with a toolkit for creating more connection, less chaos, and a whole lot more learning.

🎧 Tune in now to hear Kokeb and Fran’s full conversation — and walk away with a renewed vision for what’s possible in your classroom.


🎒 Ready to Bring Reflex Integration Through Play (RITP) to Your School or Therapy Practice?

👉 If you’re looking for ways to bring reflex integration into the classroom, check out the Reflex Integration Through Play at School program: RITP.info/school.

RITP at School Program is designed for school-based occupational therapists, educators, professionals who want to implement a flexible, play-based, brain-body approach

AOTA-approved trainings
Plug-and-play curriculum from Pre-K to High School
Coaching calls to support your implementation
Ready-to-use resources for both therapists and teachers
Proven tools to improve focus, regulation, and learning in the classroom

Whether you’re supporting one school or many, this program gives you everything you need to equip teachers, empower students, and make a lasting impact.


🎒 Ready to Level Up Your Skills and Learn the Keys to Reflex Integration Through Play?

👉 For therapists and service providers wanting to level up their skills and bring a play-based approach to reflex integration, visit: RITP.info/certification.

Comprehensive, hands-on training to master reflex integration techniques
Evidence-based methods that blend movement, play, and functional applications
Step-by-step guidance to assess and address unintegrated reflexes
Ongoing mentorship and coaching calls to support your clinical success
Practical tools and resources to implement reflex integration with confidence

Whether you’re working with children, adults, or specialized populations, this certification gives you the skills, support, and strategies to create real, lasting change in your clients’ lives.

Introducing the RITP App

A Reflex Integration Exercise Reference for Service Providers, Parents, and Teachers

  • Make treatment planning easier with a at-your-finger-tips access to all the RITP exercises.
  • Learn and show kids the exercises from videos.
  • De-stress your day with playlists you can curate for each client and share with them.