On Second Thought 3.0

The On Second Thought (OST) program is a computerized cognitive-behavioral intervention designed to introduce upper elementary school children to fundamental principles of CBT. Originally conceived as a universal prevention tool, OST aims to enhance thought awareness, foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and promote emotional literacy, including identifying and naming emotions. It also emphasizes strategies for modifying unwanted emotional responses, increasing resilience to negative emotions, and managing intense feelings.

Recent research applying the OST curriculum to specific concerns such as anxiety and anger has yielded promising results, extending its utility into targeted treatment areas. Findings suggest that OST can contribute to reductions in anxiety and anger, decrease maladaptive behaviors, and promote healthier self-regulation. Additional benefits observed include a decline in automatic negative thoughts, enhancements in adaptive skills, improvements in interpersonal relationships, better problem-solving abilities, and advancements in academic performance.

The development of OST is credited to Dr. T. Busto, a licensed elementary school psychologist and private practitioner based in New York State. The program draws on the foundational work of eminent psychologists such as Albert Ellis, Aaron Beck, and David Burns—pioneers in understanding how unhelpful thoughts influence emotional states and behaviors. Dr. Busto has adapted these concepts into a child-friendly format suitable for delivered settings.

• The complete OST program comprises 19 activities, each designed as a comprehensive lesson lasting approximately 30-45 minutes.
• These activities are organized within four volumes:
  • Volume 1: Tossing Around More Than a Thought – 8 activities (232 screens)
  • Volume 2: Tossing Around Iffy Thoughts – 4 activities (112 screens)
  • Volume 3: Tossing Around Witty Thoughts – 4 activities (104 screens)
  • Volume 4: Tossing Around Even More Iffy and Witty Thoughts – 7 activities (243 screens)

Practitioners such as school psychologists, guidance counselors, social workers, or private clinicians can deliver the program flexibly. It can be conducted as a weekly series of sessions or tailored by selecting specific volumes aligned with the developmental level and skill set of the children involved.

Materials integral to the OST program are accessible for download from the official website at www.onsecond-thought.com. These resources include printable documents designed to support instruction.

Teaching OST requires no specialized training or extensive preparation. Each lesson plan is structured for straightforward implementation; however, familiarity with CBT concepts may enhance delivery but is not mandatory.

Parents seeking to support their child's emotional development are encouraged to engage directly with the activities alongside their children. Collaborative completion of exercises can reinforce learning and foster ongoing support.

OST is grounded in evidence-based practices derived from cognitive-behavioral therapy—an approach widely endorsed by mental health professionals. Preliminary studies have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing symptoms of anxiety and anger among children, supporting its role as a valuable intervention tool.