1. Problem Solving

2. What is Problem Solving?
Problem Solving is finding ways to make “wise” choices and create a win-win situations in life.
There are no mistakes in life, only opportunities to get better!

3. Problem Solving ______________________________
List a few of the problems that you know people
have to learn how to solve.
______________________________

4. Become a Problem Solver!
In every situation there are three questions that you can ask to make a “wise” choice and create win-win situations for everyone!
What ?: What is the problem that needs to be solved?
So What ?: So What are my choices and the related consequence?
Now What ?: Now what should I choose?

5. WHAT: WHAT IS THE PROBLEM? Fred isn’t playing “fair” at recess!
Step 1
WHAT: WHAT IS THE PROBLEM?
Example:
Fred isn’t playing “fair” at recess!

6. Step 2 So What? Pros (positive outcomes from this decision)
(Alternative 1)
I could yell at Fred and hit him.
Pros (positive outcomes from this decision)
Fred may play fairly.
Cons (negative outcomes from this decision)
Fred may yell back and start a fight.
I will be sent to the principal’s office and suspended from school.

7. Step 2 So What? Pros (positive outcomes from this decision)
Alternative 2
I could ask him to please stop, cry, pout, and stomp away mad.
Pros (positive outcomes from this decision)
Fred may play fairly because he feels sorry for me.
Cons (negative outcomes from this decision)
Fred may continue to not play fair.
Fred will laugh at me and continue to play the way he wants.
I will feel bad about myself because I let him make me unhappy.
My friends won’t want to play with me because I throw fits.

8. Step 2 So What? Pros (positive outcomes from this decision)
Alternative 3
I could go play another game.
Pros (positive outcomes from this decision)
Fred will realize his choices are affecting other people.
I will be seen as a leader for making positive choices.
I will be peaceful and happy.
Cons (negative outcomes from this decision)
Fred may continue to not play fair.

9. Step 3 Now What? Choose the BEST alternative!
I will choose to walk away and go play another game!

10. I make wise choices!
I think win-win!
I Cooperate!
I am responsible!

11. I am responsible for the day I create for myself and the balance I bring to my life!