Problem-Solving Detectives
Here's What To Do
Tell your child, "Our stuffed animal friend has a problem! They think all the crayons are theirs, but you need some too. What should we do?"
Have your child try to describe the problem. Ask, "Why do you think this is a problem? How does it make you feel?" Let your child explain in their own words.
Together you can explore possible solutions and ideas. Say, "Should we take turns? Should we count and share?" Let your child decide and try a solution.
Have your child think about the solutions you tried. Ask, "Did our solution make it fair? What could we do next time if this happens again?"
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Put all distractions away and say, “Let’s be problem-solving detectives! We can notice when something isn’t fair and use our words to fix it.”
Engage:
- "What clues helped you see there was a problem?"
- "How do you think our stuffed animal friend feels?
Encourage:
- "I like how you tried to figure out a fair solution!"
- "Problems can be tricky, but talking about them helps us solve them together!"
Reflect:
- "What did you learn about solving problems today?"
Not quite ready?
Start with simple problems, like two characters needing the same toy, and model how to solve them.
Ready for more?
Act out different everyday problems, like someone taking too many cookies or forgetting to take turns, and let your child solve them.
As your child masters this skill...
they will become more confident in discussing and solving conflicts with others.