We implemented a plan in all of our classrooms to teach our kiddos some basic conflict resolution skills.
Giving children the tools to learn how to resolve conflicts among their peers is so valuable to how they will deal with conflict as adults! In fact, sometimes I think if the whole earth followed this plan, we indeed could achieve world peace!!
Here it is:
When a conflict arises between children, we start by getting down on their level and helping them to calm down....or even separating kids if the conflict has become physical.
Ok, now that we have things under control we can ask a simple question, "What's the problem??". We can gain a lot of insight based on the responses that will follow...kids are very honest and will tell you everything they are thinking and feeling! Listen to what they are saying and guide them to think of what they could do to come to a solution together.
If they are having trouble coming to a consensus, then you can offer some ideas and suggest they try them out. See what they do with it and guide them to success! If the kids involved can work out a plan that everyone is satisfied with, they can move on and are now better equipped to try it on their own the next time conflicts arise!
This plan can even work with the youngest of tots! But instead of relying on them to do all the talking, you become the model of conversation...you talk through the steps out loud and model for them a successful resolution. As their language and social skills grow, give them opportunities to try it on their own!
I encourage you to try this out with the kids in your life....let them lead in the discussion, listen to their ideas and guide them to be successful in the solution! What a gift to teach this skill to your young ones now....let's build in our kids the skills to become ambassadors of justice and peace!
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