Conflict Resolution

Keeping the Peace Violence Do not possess conflict resolution Need to foster early

Why Fighting Understand their thinking What situation led to conflict Unaware conflict is two-sided Need to learn perspective taking

Three Main Conflict Situations Put downs Bias statements Physical fighting

Hard to Deescalate Child needs to control hurtful impulses Need perspective taking skills (think and relate logically)

Help Children in Conflict Resolution I Statements Active Listening

Active Listening & I Messages Listen with full attention Show at some level they understand Put aside own thoughts & opinions Looks at feelings and needs of others Solutions can be found

Class Meetings What are class meeting? Creating a sense of community Promotes cognitive development

Teachers Response Calmly Concern for sadness… Finding way to respond (allow time) Deep breaths together (watch your own body language) Listen - limit distractions Respond to feelings expressed Work towards solution Sorry is quick fix Foster skills in life

Rheta DeVries & Lawrence Kohlberg You build caring community by developing cognitive abilities and promoting strong social skills and values of higher level used outside the classroom and the larger society

Nuts and Bolts of Class Meetings Four Parts Opening Acknowledgement Problem Solving Closing

Problem Solving Gather information (all perspectives heard) Solutions proposed Parties agree If nothing else gained feelings acknowledged and heard

Focuses on the Welfare of Others Children empowered Address inequities Work towards righting wrong

Practical Ideas to Incorporate Peace Table (diminishes authoritarian methods) Not punishment Adult acts as moderator/facilitator Tell what happened Children give alternatives Adult restates alternative never states which option to take

Talking Stick Ritual used by Native Americans during council meeting 12 to 14 decorate feathers, stones, acorns yarn ribbon… Emphasis everyones feelings important Everyone turn can pass

Sand Trays Sand and miniature figures Adult listening role

Writing Letter Writing – issues such as including more people of color in a specific magazine Journals- adults can take dictation from children – they can illustrate if desired Writing Books – collaboratively

Building a Sense of Community A positive climate where the teacher models Words Actions Openness Empathy Thoughtfulness