how preschool teachers resolve conflict

by Emily

Although I admit I only taught the older kids who usually knew how to share, (didn't always do it though!) I definitely have broke apart many a playgroup brawl with my preschooler.  With a sprinkle of my Mom's parenting techniques, a dash of every parenting book I have read, a pinch of a Supernanny episode, and a drop of all assorted unsolicited advice from strangers, I have come up with my own way to handle preschool conflict.  If a situation arises where my son and another friend are fighting over the same toy, I usually have to evaluate first.  Who had it first?  Is it a prized possession?  Did someone just receive it as a gift?  Is there another similar toy?  Secondly, I remind him of our sharing rules.  I have heard they really don't understand how to share at this age but all of the reminding and practicing will be helpful for when they do. 

When my husband and I are playing with my son, we make him share his toys with us.  It seems silly insisting that I want to play with Thomas the train, but if I gave up Thomas every single time or never made him share it he would think that is an ok behavior.  We talk about appropriate ways to share and take turns all the time.  I have come across a few books that will reinforce what you say all day long. 

Emily's Sharing and Caring Book by Cindy Post Senning.  Geared for 4-6 year old kids, it shows ways kids can be kinder and why it is important to give up the swing sometimes. 

Mind your Manners in School by Arianna Candell.  This delves into classroom friendships and appropriate behavior in a school setting.

 

Your child's teacher will probably take these same steps in ensuring peace and calm in the preschool classroom.