keeps students engaged

I believe that this site is a very great teaching tool because of how it pairs basic lessons, like reading and writing, with SEL concepts. Oftentimes, when students progress into their secondary learning, the focus on SEL is diminished and instead shifts to essay writing skills, math, science, etc. Allowing teachers to assess and watch the progress of their student's social awareness, self-management, relationship skills, and emotional skills, is what makes this software so incredible to me. When it comes to older students it is often difficult to get them to discuss how they feel, but this site gives some insight into that which allows for teachers to better support their students. I also really like that there are levels offered in Spanish which is great for English Language Learners, and there are print book sets available for those who do not have access to technology.

I loved this! It's a great teaching tool. My children loved the bright graphics and characters. I will continue doing My Peekaville in smaller groups.

Overview Peekapak is an exciting new tool that teaches K-3 kids communication skills while also focusing on social-emotional health. Common Core aligned and growing rapidly through product development and direct teacher feedback, Peekapak looks set to benefit many students in several ways. Peekapak is built around original stories that each focus on a particular positive character trait like empathy, kindness, and respect. Each lesson is 20-minutes long, which is a perfect time length given audience age. The characters, a mix of cartoon kids and anthropomorphic animals, have real personalities, with their own strengths and interests, making the cast of characters both enjoyable and believable within the context of the program. An additional strength of the program is the rich supporting material for both teachers and parents/guardians. This program invites the whole community to support the reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills of young students while developing positive examples of good character and healthy self-esteem. Another strength, and perhaps its greatest potential strength, is that the head of Peekapak keeps her business calendar open and online, inviting immediate feedback and discussion with teachers and parents. I have never heard of this level of openness. Clearly, Peekapak is a service that works with the community, not just for the community. So how does sit work? For a teacher, Peekapak directs you to a landing page where you get to select the story theme of your choice. Choosing the perseverance theme, I am directed to a page that allows me to launch the story, but also provides a brief descriptor, a “Why this is important” explanation, “Big ideas,” “Listen for this language,” and “making connections” bullets. The page also has a link to unit resources in PDF form that is so attractive that they can be made into posters that build interest and extend the story. Further, there is a convenient “Print” button to assist teachers. The left column menu also offers various supports, including reports, news tracking, and skills tracking (which is coming soon). Concerns No real concerns here. The program is not free, but you get what you pay for. Sample Uses As is clear from the site, this is a program for K-3 classrooms, specifically the language arts portion. Commitment and Learning Curve Low. Yes, this program really is user-friendly, perfect for the elementary school teacher, who must prepared myriad lessons every day. Best for ES MS or HS? ES Cost: Individual teacher accounts are free if you wish to try out the system, but the school/district must purchase Peekapk to make the most effective use of what Peekapak has to offer. Sometimes in life you get what you pay for, and Peekapak is definitely worth the look. Website Link: https://www.peekapak.com/