Welcome to FERB FRIENDS
Helping Children Turn Big Reactions Into Better Choices
FERB FRIENDS is a story-based SEL curriculum that helps children turn big emotions into better choices using seven memorable characters and their unique super strengths.
What Are FERBs?
FERB stands for Functionally Equivalent
Replacement Behavior.
While the name may sound technical, the idea is simple:
A FERB is a new behavior that helps a child get the same need met in
a more appropriate, effective, and socially accepted way.
All behavior serves a purpose. Children may be trying to:
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Get help
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Gain attention
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Avoid or escape something difficult
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Access a preferred item or activity
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Meet a sensory need
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Express a feeling they do not yet have the words to communicate
When children do not yet have the skills to communicate these needs effectively, they may use behaviors that disrupt learning, relationships, or daily routines.
A Functionally Equivalent Replacement Behavior teaches children:
"Instead of doing this, I can do that."
The replacement behavior serves the same function as the original behavior while helping the child communicate their needs in a safer, more successful way.
I CAN INSTEAD - ASK FOR HELP - ASK FOR BRAIN BREAK - MAKE A CHANGE - I NEED ATTENTION - ASK FOR MORE TIME - GET SENSORY NEEDS MET
Curriculum Journey
Early Foundations
FERB Friends began with a simple idea: teach children what they can do instead.
Long before the FERB Friends characters were created, the program started with visual supports that helped children communicate their needs in positive and effective ways. Simple picture symbols such as "Take a Break," "I Need Help," "Can I Have More Time?," "I Need Attention," "Can We Change Activities?," and "I Need a Sensory Break" gave children practical alternatives to challenging behaviors.
Discovery Level
These teaching tools were successfully implemented throughout classrooms across a public school district, supporting students from preschool through sixth grade in both general education and special education settings.
As children learned to use these replacement behaviors, they developed stronger communication, self-regulation, and problem-solving skills. The success of these early FERBs became the foundation for what would eventually grow into the FERB Friends curriculum.
Emotional Mastery
As students become more familiar with the FERB Friends and their super strengths, they learn to recognize emotional triggers, understand how their feelings influence their behavior, and choose effective responses in challenging situations. Rather than reacting impulsively, children practice pausing, thinking, and using the FERB strategies they have learned.
Empowered Growth
At this stage, children have developed the skills to recognize their emotions, understand their needs, and choose positive ways to respond to challenges. They are learning to apply these skills across different environments, including the classroom, playground, home, and community.
Curated Growth Resources
Expert Training
We invite you to explore our evidence-based video lessons and professional development programs designed for early educators and families.
Curriculum Basics
Master the FERB Friends framework to establish emotional grounding in early learner environments.
Empathetic Play
Interactive strategies to foster deep emotional connections through modeling and group activities.
Teacher Support
Explore self-care strategies and emotional regulation tools tailored for professional educators.
Free SEL Growth Toolkit
Empower your daily routines with our curated selection of resources designed specifically for families and educators.
- Daily Mood Tracking Journal
- Calming Strategy Flashcards
- Mindfulness Coloring Pages
- Positive Affirmation Poster
Latest from the Vlog
Welcome to our vlog where we share expert stories, practical tips, and encouraging guidance for your child’s emotional growth journey.
“We have witnessed an incredible shift in classroom culture since integrating FERB Friends; it’s more than a curriculum, it’s a language of empathy.”
Dr. Elena Moss
Elementary Principal & SEL Advocate, San Francisco