The EDMO Method®

At the center of everything we do — from teaching kids to interacting with each other — is The EDMO Method®

Developed in partnership with UC Berkeley Greater Good Science Center, this research-backed approach transforms everyday play and learning into powerful tools for growth. 

The EDMO Method helps kids understand that how they act shapes how they think, and how they think shapes who they become. Every experiment, game, and project is intentionally designed to nurture social-emotional learning (SEL) skills that build confidence, resilience, and empathy for life.

SPACE skills

We intentionally design all of our programs to provide kids the opportunity practice five core SEL skills:

S

Self Awareness: Kids reflect on who they are, recognize their emotions, and understand how their words and actions affect others.

P

Problem Solving: They ask questions, get creative, and use their unique strengths to work through challenges.

A

Advocacy: They discover the power of their voice and learn to speak up for themselves and others.

C

Collaboration: They practice listening, sharing ideas, and making decisions as a team, with care and respect.

E

Empathy: They learn to understand different perspectives and hold space for difference.

* SEL skills adapted in part from the CASEL framework and the research report by Charles Smith, Ph.D., Gina McGovern, Reed Larson, Ph.D., Barbara Hillaker, Ph.D., (2016) "SEL Field Guide, Preparing Youth to Thrive: Promising Practices for Social & Emotional Learning"; David P. Weikhart, Center for Youth Program Quality.

Building Lasting Character Traits

As kids practice SEL skills regularly and build their emotional quotient (EQ), they become more curious, courageous, and kind — the universal character traits that research shows are highly predictive of high achievement and life satisfaction.

Curiosity

Curiosity lights up the brain. It triggers dopamine, our natural feel-good chemical, and activates the hippocampus— which helps us form memories and build a lifelong love of discovery. That’s why curious kids remember more and want to learn more. Studies show that when we express curiosity in others, we build closer relationships with healthier boundaries.

Courage

Courage is the willingness to act in the face of fear, uncertainty, and doubt. It is a cognitive ability that can be nurtured and strengthened over time.. At EDMO, kids learn to stay present and mindful during challenges so their actions come from awareness, not instinct. Through practice, they build resilience, confidence, and the grit to keep going—no matter what comes their way.

Kindness

Kindness ripples outward. Each act releases serotonin and oxytocin—the brain’s natural chemicals for happiness and trust—lifting both the giver and receiver. By consistently engaging in acts of kindness, EDMO kids strengthen their own mental health while building empathy, creating positive social bonds, and cultivating a more inclusive and supportive community around them.

The EDMO Method in Action

At EDMO, learning happens through doing, creating, and connecting. Each program we design brings the EDMO Method® to life through:

  • Hands-on projects and real-world problem-solving rooted in curiosity
  • Group reflections and creative expression that deepen understanding
  • Games, team-building, and leadership opportunities that build confidence
  • Activities rooted in community and connection that help develop natural empathy

Whether a program is offered during summer, after school, or in the classroom, the EDMO Method provides a consistent foundation for growth that helps kids thrive for life.

The EDMO Method creates a foundation that supports kids now and equips them for the road ahead.

Join us in building a world where today’s learners become tomorrow’s leaders, creators, and changemakers.

Happy kid with paint on handsKid with pebbleTwo kids with face paintKids showing off their artwork
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