Problem Solving Strategies with Three-to-Five-year-olds:

Redirection

Consequences

Time Out

Offer Choices

Teach Problem Solving

Proactive Strategies

Problem Solving Strategies with Three-to-Five-year-olds:

v    Redirection -. If your child is frustrated and unable to solve a problem, try a different activity.

For example, take a restless child outside for some physical activity.

v    Consequences -. Let children experience the consequences of their action if it is safe to do so.

For example, “If you can’t play with the block without throwing them, the block will be put away.”  Then follow through and put the blocks away if the child continues to throw them.

v    Time Out -. “Time out” is when a parent removes a child from a situation for refusing to follow the rules. It can be effective with children between the ages of two and up.

1.      Take your child to a safe, quiet place where the child can calm down and regain control.

2.      Briefly explain that you are having a time out because of the child’s misbehavior. Do not argue or discuss at this point.

3.      Bring the child back to play when the child feels ready to try again.  (generally, the time out should be no more in minutes than the child’s age.)

4.      Praise the child’s first acceptable behavior after time out.

v    Offer Choices -.Choices help children learn how to make decisions. Offers simple choices, but don’t threaten.

For example, “you can wash the dishes or dry them. You decide.”

v    Teach Problem Solving

1.     Help your child to define the problem. Ask questions, such as “What would happen if you tried to do that.”

2.     Together think of some solutions.

3.     Choose the best one.

4.     Try it.

5.     Afterwards, talk about what worked and what you could try next time.

Proactive Strategies:

Child misbehaviour is impossible to prevent completely. Children, usually curious and endlessly creative, are likely to do things parents and other caregivers have not expected. However, there are many positive steps adults can take to help prevent misbehaviour.

v    Set clear, consistent rules.

v    Make certain the environment is safe and worry-free.

v    Show interest in the child's activities.

v    Provide appropriate and engaging playthings.

v    Encourage self-control by providing meaningful choices.

v    Focus on the desired behavior, rather than the one to be avoided.

v    Build children's images of themselves as trustworthy, responsible and cooperative.

v    Expect the best from the child.

v    Give clear directions, one at a time.

v    Say "Yes" whenever possible.

v    Notice and pay attention to children when they do things right.

v    Take action before a situation gets out of control.

v    Encourage children often and generously.

v    Set a good example.

v    Help children see how their actions affect others.