Stop, Listen, Think!
Here's What To Do
Have your child remember a recent time when they wanted to play with the same toy as a sibling or friend that didn’t go well – ended in conflict or tears. Have them recap the story with you.
Now ask them to put on their imagination caps, pause and think of different solutions that would have felt fair to all.
Let them act out their favorite solution with you, so they can practice and be ready for the next time! Use their favorite toys to make it real!
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Settle into a comfy place with your child and take three deep breaths together. Great! You’re ready to begin!
Engage:
- "What would happen if everyone grabbed what they wanted instead of taking turns?"
- "How do you feel when someone listens to your ideas?”
Encourage:
- "You took your time to think before acting—great job being mindful!"
- "It’s okay to make mistakes. You are learning how to solve problems calmly!"
Reflect:
- "How did it feel to have to wait and listen before solving a problem?"
Not quite ready?
If your child struggles with listening, start with a simple game: Say, "Let’s play a quiet game! I will clap, and you copy me. Listen closely!" This builds attention before problem-solving.
Ready for more?
Encourage your child to practice mindful problem-solving in real-life situations. If a sibling or friend wants the same toy, ask, "What’s a fair way to solve this problem?"
As your child masters this skill...
Use mindfulness to stay calm, listen to others, and think before acting—leading to stronger friendships and better problem-solving skills.