The Polarization & Extremism Research & Innovation Lab (PERIL) has announced that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has approved and recommended the DUCC curriculum, a K-5 program designed to foster critical thinking and resilience in children as they navigate an increasingly digital world.
Developed with educators and child development experts, DUCC emphasizes early skills in logic, digital literacy, and media comprehension to help children better evaluate online content.
As part of its structure, all grade-level front matter in the DUCC curriculum includes a “home connection” component. These sections are based on the AAP’s Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health’s “5Cs” guidelines, designed to encourage healthy digital use. The framework gives parents and caregivers practical tools and conversation starters to extend classroom learning into family discussions.