The problem-solving technique

The problem-solving guidance technique consists of 5 steps. At each step, the adult restates what each child has said, in order to know that they are heard and confirm their ideas.  

1. Identify the problem – ask the children to tell you what the problem is, giving each child a turn. This calms them and helps them think about it a bit as well as hear the other person’s point of view.  
2. Ask them to suggest a solution – giving each of them a turn. The adult may need to help them think of some ideas.  
3. Help the children think about what will happen and how the other person will feel with suggested solutions.  
4. Try the solution.  
5. Ask the children to evaluate the solution. Was it a good idea? Do we feel okay now?  

With repeated experiences, older preschool children will gradually be able to go through these steps themselves and begin to manage their problems.