Teach Problem-Solving Skills.

Problem solving is a method that will be very important for young people to develop throughout the developmental stages of growth. As adults we can tell when our peers, co-workers and more have not properly learned to how problem solve effectively and how it creates difficulties in adulthood. This is why it is highly important for anyone that works with young people to help with building problem solving skills.

This method can be used for any age group; toddlers, kids, adolescents and teenagers but make sure to keep your verbiage and interactions age appropriate. Our goal is to compassionately build these skills and not break them down.

Teach Problem Solving Skills (Toddlers & Kids)

• Step 1: What am I feeling? Help your child label how he feels about the situation. Understanding feelings diffuses their charge, allowing your child to step back and focus on the bigger picture.

• Step 2: What’s the problem? Ask your child to describe the problem. In most cases, ensure that your child is taking responsibility for his role, rather than pointing fingers.

• Step 3: What are the solutions? Brainstorm potential solutions. They don’t have to be “good” ideas; you will narrow them down later.

• Step 4: What would happen if…? Discuss what might happen if your child tried each solution. Roleplaying is also appropriate at this step. Is the solution safe? Is it fair? How will others feel?

• Step 5: What will I try? Have your child choose one solution to try. If it doesn’t work, discuss WHY and choose another. Encourage your child to keep trying until the problem is solved.

Teach Problem Solving Skills (Adolescents & Teenagers)

1. Define the Problem:

   • When and wear does the your problem occur?

   • What are the causes of your problems?

   • Define your problem

2. Develop Multiple Solutions:

   • come up with three solutions.

   • Number them, first, second and third

3. Assess your solutions and choose One:

   • Write a down next to your solutions, the strength and weakness of each solution.

4. Implement Your Solution:

   • Think about how and when your solution will be implemented.

   • How will you remember to follow through with your solution?

   • How when you know when to use your solution?

   • What are some warning signs, triggers, or other things that you bother you?

5. Review:

   • In what ways was your solution effective?

   • In what ways was your solution not effective?

   • If you could go back in time, what would you change about how you handled the problem?

   • What advice would you give to someone else who was dealing with the same problem?