The behavior training is a group program designed to promote social and emotional skills at the start of school. It helps to prevent oppositional and aggressive behavior at an early stage. It has proven effective both in schools for first and second graders and in other educational settings such as special education groups or childcare centers.

This training manual provides an introduction to the theoretical background of the training, addresses topics such as classroom management and crisis intervention, and includes detailed descriptions of the 23 training sessions. During these sessions, children embark on a treasure hunt with the chameleon Ferdi. They encounter fantasy characters like ghosts and a dragon. In a playful manner, skills such as attention, problem-solving, conflict management, and rule-following are developed, as well as the handling of emotions, empathy, self-control, and prosocial behavior.

The 5th edition has been completely revised, updated to be contemporary, and newly illustrated. Some characters have been redesigned, and the songs have been re-recorded. To allow for greater flexibility in implementation, the role plays have been reduced from nine to six, and the time-consuming point allocation at the end of the session has been eliminated.

Numerous online materials for the training can be downloaded after registration. A workbook for children is available separately. Please note that the 5th edition of the behavior training for school beginners is only compatible with the current 4th edition of the workbook.