This week, we are finishing our unit on problem solving in first grade classes. The last time we met, students learned and practiced saying I feel statements to resolve conflicts with peers. As a reminder, I feel statements look like this:
I feel _______ when you _______.
While talking is a great strategy, it is not fair to expect all problems to be resolved by students themselves. For this lesson, we spent time discussing different unexpected things that might happen at school and decided if they are dangerous (someone could get hurt), destructive (something could get broken or ruined), or safe. For problems that are upsetting, but safe, we decided that students can try to solve these problems themselves, perhaps with an I feel statement. In the case of a dangerous or destructive situation, we considered the different adults who might help to solve the problem.
You can support this lesson at home. When your child comes to you for help and the problem is not dangerous or destructive, encourage them to try to solve it on their own first. You can even help them brainstorm ways to solve the problem. Also, consider reviewing dangerous or destructive events that might happen at home, and reinforce that in these situations, it is important for them to find a safe adult to help.
Sincerely,
David Starr
School Counselor, Armstrong Elementary School
PH: (508) 836-7760 Email: [email protected]