- Westridge Elementary School
- Life Skills
- Problem Solving
Wildcat Pride - PBIS
Page Navigation
Problem Solving
-
The Problem Solving Path
by Jodi Marcus, School Counselor
“My problem held an opportunity.
It was an opportunity for me to learn and grow.
To be brave. To do something.”
~Kobi Yamada in What To Do With a Problem?
Problem solving, or the ability to find solutions to a problem, is our January character trait.
Kids regularly learn step-by-step methods for solving math problems. If we say “problem solving” this may be the first thing that comes to mind. However, there is a form of problem solving that extends well beyond the math curriculum-solving problems in our social and emotional lives. Problems can challenge us when we work, play, create and relate. To fully thrive, we need to solve problems that can come up daily and, like with math problems, there is a step-by-step approach. With the tools and skills to face problems, they can be opportunities- not obstacles.
Kids can face problems every day that include academic difficulties, creative challenges, conflicts with peers or on the sports field. When they are able to solve these problems, they are more likely to feel successful academically, athletically, creatively and socially. Being a problem solver can increase self esteem, resilience and optimism.
When a problem arises, kids who lack problem solving skills may either avoid taking action or spring into action without thinking through their choices. Both of these options can lead to bigger problems that may negatively impact feelings of academic and social success, self esteem and resilience. In addition, if we consistently solve problems for children, we may deny them the opportunity to gain this skill.
The Problem Solving Path
The problem solving process follows a basic step-by-step pathway that starts with naming feelings and stating the problem. Once those are understood, we can generate a list of possible solutions, evaluate each one and choose the best option.
This pathway can be communicated in language that is developmentally appropriate for each child. We can use visual cues to show children the choices they have for solving problems (see Kelso’s Choice). For younger children, it can simply be: What’s going on? What can we do? Pick one. Try it. How did it go?
- How do you feel? Are you calm?
- Notice how you feel.
- Use tools to calm so you can think clearly.
- When calm, move to the next step.
- What is the problem?
- Name the problem.
- Why do you feel angry, upset or frustrated?
- What are some solutions?
- Think of as many solutions as you can.
- Write them down, draw pictures or talk it out.
- Evaluate each solution.
- What would happen if….? Would it help?
- How would the other person feel?
- Is it safe? Is it kind and fair?
- Choose one solution and try it.
- Did it solve the problem? If not, go back and choose a different one.
How Do Kids Develop Problem Solving Skills?
Observation
Kids can learn this process from observing the adults in their lives. We can be problem solving role models! When we are working through a problem (and it is age appropriate to share), we can verbalize our process or tell them about it afterwards.
Practice
Life will present kids with many opportunities to develop this skill experientially. With every problem solved, the process becomes easier and more automatic. We can guide them through this process by asking questions for each step of the path. We can write out (or draw) the problem and solutions and create a pro/con list for each solution. The child can circle the solution they chose. Save the list. Revisit if the first solution did not work and pick another one to try. By allowing them solve their own problems (with guidance, if needed), we are strengthening this skill.
Visuals
Visuals are environmental cues that can support this skill. Teaching kids some problem solving choices visually can be very effective. Kelso’s Choice (www.kelsoschoice.com) is a wonderful program that highlights nine social problem solving strategies (some verbal, some non-verbal). It includes a visual choice wheel. You can also use a visual of the problem solving pathway to help kids remember the steps.
Role Play
Think of real life scenarios and role play using the problem solving pathway to come up with a solution. This can be fun, educational and entertaining for all!
Literature and Media
Books, movies and shows are often stories of problems to be solved. Have a discussion around the problem and solution in the story. You can ask the same questions listed in the The Problem Solving Path above about the characters and the story. When they are faced with a problem, you can refer to a cherished book as a guide for problem solving ideas.
Some Book Ideas
*Most of these are picture books. Much of young adult literature includes stories of problems to be solved and can be used to explore this skill.
- Teaching Children Problem Solving through Literature by James W Forgan
- What Do You Do With a Problem? By Kobi Yamada
- The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers
- The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry and the Big Hungry Bear by Don and Audrey Wood
- Stuck by Oliver Jeffers
- Ladybug Girl and Bumblebee Boy by Jacky Davis and David Soman
It is beneficial for children to explore the character trait at school and home. At school, they will have classroom lessons and discussions on the topic. At home, you can continue the conversation and make problem solving part of daily life. We would love to the hear ways you are practicing problem solving at home.