Size of the Problem

This spring, Kindergarten students are working hard to become great problem solvers.  As they get ready to move on to 1st grade, we are working on skills to become more independent.  We are learning to figure out the size of our problems, so that we can make an expected choice about how to react.  Problems can be small (like a mouse!), medium (like a dog!), or big (like an elephant!).  

Small problems will usually go away if we just stay calm and act flexible.  For example, if we do not get to go first in a game, this is only a small problem.  If we think with a flexible brain and stay calm, we can still enjoy the game.  A medium problem needs to be solved.  If we spilled milk in the cafeteria, then we would need to clean it up.  Large problems are when someone is very hurt, or not safe.  For example, if a friend fell and was very hurt, then we would need to get an adult to help.

Often for our youngest students, small problems feel very large!  Talking with your child about the size of a problem can help them learn a sense of control over their feelings and actions.  For problems that require a solution, like friendship challenges, we can help them brainstorm possible choices and have them pick a solution that they like best.