Social Problem Solving (k-5)
Overview for Teachers (K-2): In this module, students will learn to recognize and solve social problems. They will practice perspective-taking and recognizing when they make assumptions about others’ behavior. Students will also learn steps to solving social problems effectively and will practice finding helpful solutions.
Overview for Teachers (3-5): In this lesson students will learn to recognize social problems and tips for solving them effectively and will continue to practice recognizing and shifting their thoughts in order to help solve social problems. They will learn to recognize “hot thoughts” (unhelpful thoughts which lead to negative feelings and often make the problem bigger) and “cool thoughts” (more realistic, helpful thoughts which lead to calmer feelings and often make the problem easier to solve). Students will learn and practice different ways of understanding and solving social problems, which include information on perspective taking. Students will practice pausing to brainstorm a range of solutions to problems and evaluate consequences to choose the most effective solution.
HOw was Your Experience Using This Resource?
Izamary Rios - 2nd Grade Teacher
My students thrived with this module - I have heard them talk multiple times about solutions they can do to solve a problem
Since I teach little kids (second grade) we had to come up with a list of solutions for little problems and big problems. We created an anchor chart together and I saw two students go up and stare at it and decide that their problem was little so they did rock, paper, scissors to solve the problem. This has given them a new level of independence
It was very beneficial to discuss what a big problem and small problem was. I wanted to make sure that students understood that they should still come and talk to me if there is a big problem and someone is hurt, crying or in danger, but also wanted them to know that they can solve problems on their own.
We had to really dive deep and review everyday what perspective was. This I believe is crucial for the students to understand. I don’t think they can fully comprehend perspective and jump to conclusions just yet, but at least it is a start and we will continue to build on looking at others perspectives.
Alina Enoiu - 3rd Grade Teacher
Great relevant topic–students were able to draw from their own experiences
Students shared some of their experience with online learning–more conflicts with siblings rather than peers at school
Great to brainstorm strategies that kids can use as they return to in person learning. Students were really reflective about how in person learning might look different for them.
Lynh Nguyen - Kindergarten Teacher
I feel like learning how to problem solve helped my students become more independent
After implementing this module, I noticed that more of my students are sharing their feelings, talking about their problems, and finding solutions on their own!
I found perspective taking important in being able to problem solve. Students who were able to understand the other person’s feelings had better solutions that benefitted both parties.