Conflict Resolution Strategies and Activities

September 21, 2023

Today, during morning meeting, my kindergarteners went around sharing their goals for this school year. I was not surprised to hear the many wishes centered around learning to read. I was, however, pleasantly surprised to hear several students shared that their goal was to "learn to make friends." Of course, my heart went BOOM -BOOM-BOOM when I heard that!

Friendship is a crucial aspect of a child's social AND emotional development. It's where they learn about trust and empathy. It is also where they learn to identify and solve conflicts. As educators and parents, we play a significant role in nurturing these valuable skills. Here are some conflict resolution strategies and activities that have worked for me with my students.

Empathy Builders:

Empathy Circle: Teach students to understand and share the feelings of others through activities and discussions.

Role Playing: Demonstrate empathy in your interactions with students and encourage them to practice it.

Effective Communication:

Circle Time: Create a safe/brave space for students to express themselves and practice active listening.

Inclusive Games: Use interactive games that promote respectful communication and teamwork.

Peer Support and Community:

Open Dialogue with Parents: Maintain communication with parents to align efforts in reinforcing social skills at home.

Peer Support: Cultivate a culture of mutual support among students. This will help strengthen the sense of community.

Here is this print and go resource. It comes with lessons, activities, and games.

I love these fun little phones! We have used them for students to dial a friend and read them a story activity during reading center. However, I also use them for my students when they need to "invited a friend" to have a conversation and to solve a problem.