NCJ Number
166010
Date Published
1989
Length
109 pages
Annotation
This volume aims to help parents, teachers, and other caregivers of preschoolers to create classroom and home settings in which the level of conflict is low so that the adults can guide the conflict resolution process in such a way that it is effective for the child and can be used again by the child.
Abstract
The guidelines include examples from the author's child care center. The text emphasizes the importance of establishing objectives that reflect the relationships among self-esteem, tolerance of difference, creative problemsolving, altruism, and the ability to handle problems without aggression. It explains ways to arrange the space and equipment in the physical environment to enhance the qualities required for successful conflict resolution and to minimize unnecessary conflict. It also discusses the objects and behaviors to screen out of the environment. Additional chapters explain central components of interacting effectively with young children. These include helping children become involved in alternative adventure play rather than war play, using books as resources, developing empathy and an understanding of consequence, and using expressive and receptive communication skills. Negotiating skills and interventions that involve high adult intervention, a minimal adult role, and children taking charge are also detailed. Guidelines for activities for children, photographs, notes, and appended lists of resource materials and organizations