Problem-Solving Skills

Brault, L. and Brault T. (2005) Problem Solving Skills. Children With Challenging Behavior: Strategies for Reflective Thinking (pp. 75-82). Phoenix, AZ: CPG Publishing Company.

Summary/Analysis:

In this chapter the author walks the reader through the process of problem-solving. At the beginning she gives a Real Life Story and uses it throughout to provide examples. The situation described is about a four year old boy named Micah who bullies children. Micah wants to play with the other children but he gets out of control too fast. This chapter had some helpful points. I appreciated the Real Life Story. I liked being able to see how the Problem Solving Plan worked.

According to the author there are four essential steps for reflecting on solving a problem:

1. Recognize and clarify your feelings.
2. Recognize the feelings of others.
3. Clarify the critical issues.
4. Identify the strengths.

As teachers, most of us are naturally reflective and look back on what happened and how things went during the day. I liked that the author used the same philosophy when it came to solving problems. There was so much reflection woven into teaching kids how to solve problems. She points out that many problem-solving techniques can be used to develop a positive behavior plan but very few of them use reflective thinking.

Once the teacher has reflected there are seven steps to solve the problem:

1. Define the problem.
2. Gather information.
3. Partner with other adults.
4. Brainstorms solutions.
5. Choose one solution and make a plan.
6. Implement the solution.
7. Evaluate the solution.

The chapter ends with the author providing a problem-solving plan for the Real Life Situation. There is also a blank copy for teachers to use.

Quotes:

“...first acknowledge what your are feeling. Only then can you take ownership of your emotions and begin to understand them.” (75)

“Try to understand other people’s emotions and reactions. What is the child trying to communicate through the behavior?” (76)

“Ask yourself: What are the long-term, big picture lessons I need to share with my children to make a difference in their lives? Am I providing opportunities for children to have responsibilities and contribute respectfully to the group?” (76)

“...keep in ming the strengths of each person, the relationships, and the needs of each person.” (76)

“A person is not the problem, the problem is the problem.” (76)

“Begin to think of the purpose of the behavior. Find out how often, when, where, why, and with whom it occurs. Be sure to check out who owns the problem. If the problem as you defined it is not owned by you, go back and redefine it until you take on ownership.” (77)

“Remember you are aiming for improvement, not perfection! If the solution works, you will know it - plus your energy will no longer be focused on that situation...Don’t be afraid of failing - it is a proven way to learn. Realize that with solutions come new questions and new understandings.” (78)