What Is the California Teaching Pyramid?

The CA Teaching Pyramid approach provides a systematic framework that promotes social and emotional development, provides support for children's appropriate behavior, prevents challenging behavior, and addresses problematic behavior. WestEd Center offers comprehensive professional development packages for infant/toddler, preschool, family child care, home visitor, and early elementary educators. WestEd's Teaching Pyramid is based on evidence-based practice originally developed by the Center on the Social Emotional Foundations in Early Learning (CSEFEL), in collaboration with the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) and aligned with California’s Early Learning and Development System.
Young boy using scissors at a classroom crafts table
Smiling infant laying on a bed
Image of solutions kit card reading play together
Be Friendly, Be Respectful
Group of adults listening to an instructor around a table
California Teaching Pyramid logo consisting of a triangle with 4 horizontal bands

Professional Development

Based on recommendations for achieving implementation with fidelity and sustainability over time, there are four recommended components offered by WestEd staff.

Five illustrated figures wearing solid colored shirts

Walking Up the Pyramid

Tools to support and enhance children's educational routines in the classroom. These tips can be useful at home as well.
Hand drawn illustrations of numerous school materials

Materials

Find materials specifically adapted or developed by WestEd for use in California. Many have been translated into Traditional Chinese and Spanish.

Training Events