Conflict or disagreements is normal and often happens when children get together. However, hurtful words, gestures, or physical attack are unacceptable ways to deal with conflict and disagreement at school. Kelso’s Choice is a conflict management program that helps children learn to solve “small” problems” on their own and to talk to an adult if they have a “big problem.”
Our goal is to teach students several positive ways to deal with these difficult situations. To do this, we are asking students who have “small problems” to try at least two of the following ideas:
1. Go to another game or activity.
2. Share and take turns.
3. Respectfully talk it over and listen to each other. 4. Walk away from the problem.
5. Ignore the problem behavior.
6. Tell the person to stop the problem behavior.
7. Apologize.
8. Make a deal or compromise.
9. Wait to cool off.
If a student has a “Big” problem, they should talk to an adult they trust.
By using this plan, we believe that our students will develop effective problem solving skills that they can use again and again. It will help them to deal with
conflict in a positive manner and to make appropriate decisions. Knowing what
to do will help students reduce the stress and number of conflicts they have at
school and in their neighborhood.
Colorful charts illustrating ways to deal with conflict will be posted so all
children will know their choices. We encourage you to become familiar with this program and use it in your home. By working together, we can develop a healthy life skill for young people to use at home and at school.
Sincerely:
Layne Lueders
3-5 School Counselor