5 Conflict Resolution Skills to Teach Children
Conflict resolution for children and why it’s crucial we teach it now. Unlike political debates, in this post there will be no passive-aggressive displays of opinions or judgmental banter. I want to simply talk about conflict resolution, and the 5 skills I want my children to learn.
There will always be conflict in life. This isn’t a bad thing; it’s simply human nature to not agree with everyone all of the time. It is what makes us different and adds interest to our lives. In a perfect world, our differences would be celebrated; however, in recent years, the people of the US have experienced the very opposite.
If the recent election and political environment have taught me anything, it is how I do not want my own children to act when faced with opposition.
Teaching Children About Conflict
Even at a very young age, children start to learn about conflict. From their first fight over sharing toys, to arguments at the school’s playground—they are already learning how to work through disagreements. Still, anyone who scrolls through social media at the end of the day, can be reminded that there are many folks out there who were never taught these basic conflict resolution skills. These 5 lessons will guide you as you teach your child important lessons about conflict:
1. It Is Okay To Disagree
In a conversation, every person brings a unique set of experiences, biases, and reasons for feeling a certain way. Just because you don’t agree on a topic, it doesn’t mean you can’t still be friends.
Explain this to your child using a simple topic, such as ice cream flavors. Their favorite flavor might be chocolate, and their friend might love vanilla. It doesn’t mean that one flavor is better than the other—they are just different. And being different is okay.
2. Take The Time To Listen
When you are in a conflict with someone, it is crucial that you take time to listen to the other side. Be respectful and do not interrupt when they are speaking, even if you disagree. If your friend is explaining why they think vanilla is the best ice cream choice, listen quietly and try to keep an open mind.
3. Diversity Is A Good Thing
If everyone liked the same ice cream flavor, ice cream in general would be a pretty boring thing. It is important to teach your children that they may not always be able to change everyone’s minds. Opinion diversity is normal and healthy. Use these tips to be respectful of other people’s feelings:
4. There Are Appropriate Times For Arguments
There is a time to argue, and a time to hold your tongue. If the discussion is making people feel very uncomfortable, it may not be the best time to debate. At these times, you may have to keep your opinion to yourself. For example, if you are voicing your hatred of vanilla ice cream in front of the ice cream store owner, you may be doing more harm than good.
5. You Don’t Always Have to Have The Last Word
There will be times when the person you are speaking to will not listen to what you have to say. If it doesn’t seem like a resolution can be met, it is okay to politely leave and let the other person have the last comment. Your stubborn friend may never agree to try different ice creams, and that is their loss. Print this reminder for your children:
Final Thoughts
If your child learns these skills at a young age, when debating basic things like favorite ice cream flavor, it will help him have professional and productive debates as they grow into adulthood.
Source and Photo Credit:
5 Conflict Resolution Skills To Teach Kids (Inspired by Watching People Debate over Politics)
https://goldenslumbersphotos.com/2021/02/01/conflict-resolution-tips-to-teach-kids/
Simply Snapping Mom