Problem Solving Cycle:
We all encounter problems in life. Some are easier then others to solve, yet we can all solve them the same way!
Let us take a look at normal everyday problems we all encounter:
- Rachel was having a problem with her friend Lea, she felt that Lea was not willing to play with her.
- John was having a problem understanding his math lesson.
- Luke’s problem was he always misplaced his shoes and missed his school bus numerous times.
- Angela was having a problem deciding which extra curricular program she would like to attend.
- Dad was having a problem coming to work on time.
- Mom’s problem was she was always out of ingredients when she tried to cook dinner.
Yup, we all got problems in various degrees and sizes. It shows we are human!
Now how do we tackle these problems?
….and get rid of them once and for all?
- We got to identify the problem: – know what it is, is the first step to getting rid of it!
- Take a look at option-able solutions: Ask yourself what are your options. What can you do about it. Many times all we got to do is ask because we may know the answer. If Rachel would talk to her friend and come to an agreement then that may be her solution. John may need some help or extra time, Luke may need to prepare his shoes the day before.
- Think of which solution would be a best fit: There may be many answers to the problem and many options. Ask yourself or your child the pros and cons for each one. Writing it down may help for a child or a difficult problem. Weighing the pros and cons is helpful prior to coming to a conclusion. It is also helpful to ask yourself what if I choose this solution and not the other. Prepare yourself not to regret what you chose.
- Apply- Now that you chose a possible answer, try it!
- Reflect and reconsider– Once you applied your solution ask yourself, did it solve the problem? Is there something else I can do? Do I need to change the solution? Is the problem solved and am I prepared to tackle the issue when it comes up again?
Remember it is a cycle and you may need to repeat step 2- 5 until you are happy or it works out.
What happens if it is something happening in the classroom or at home with children?
Problem solving with children:
Leora and Michael both wanted to play at the easel. Leora was there first. Michael is crying and is pushing Leora, and not letting her paint because he wants the easel.
Help! Now what?
Know you are not alone, we all experience children fighting!
- State the problem you observe.
- Ask the child what they think they can do to solve the problem.
- Prompt the child to think of various solutions and choose one they think will help.
- Ask the child about the solution they chose. Do you think that that is a good idea? Will it be helpful? How does that solution make you and others feel?
- Implement solution while being on hand to observe and guide.
- Repeat if necessary.
- When the teacher noticed that Michael and Leora were having a problem, she gently approached Michael and told him; ” Michael I see you are upset, come let us talk.”
She led him to a quiet space where they were able to talk. Michael shared his frustration and his want to go to the easel.
2. Ms. Gennith asked Michael what he can do about his want to go play there. Michael stated that he wants a turn. Ms. Gennith asked him how he can get a turn. Michael shared that he can ask Leora to play there.
3. Ms Gennith then asked him for other solutions. They came up with various options such a as using a timer, asking Leora if she can make space for him or to work a bit faster, giving Leora other options to play with, engaging Michael with other activities that interests him, create a sign up sheet, paint at the table etc. The created a long list together!
4. After each solution the teacher asked Michael how he would feel and how Leora would feel. Michael realized to ask Leora to rush may just upset her.
5. Michael decided that painting by the table is an acceptable solution. The teacher set him up by the table and he is happily trying that solution.
Giving children the skills for problem solving is vital for them.
It prepares them for life. It gives them the understanding about their needs and their friends needs, while taking everyone into consideration.
What can you do at home to help children with problem solving?
- Model at home
- Share with them some of your problems and how you came to a solution.
- Guide and direct when necessary.
- Create a solution box at home. I love this. Have a box at home with various solutions that may help them with different problems. Have picture cards or words on a ring or in an album. These cards or pictures can include:
- asking for help
- asking nicely
- ignoring
- playing together
- saying ” please stop”
- share
- trade
- take turns
- use a timer
- prepare in advance
Start the cycle today. Problem solve so that the problems can go away!