Conflict is normal, it is how we learn to solve issues.  It’s how we handle it, that counts.  Do we get angry, and say and do things we later regret (break things or hurt someone’s feelings)?  Or do we take time to calm down, consider the situation and use our words to negotiate a win – win solution?

There will always be situations that we are not in agreement over.  There will always be people who annoy us or ‘push our buttons’ or ‘trigger’ us in some way.  At River Oaks Elementary, we teach students to use different ways /  tools to solve differences with others and handle annoying people.  We teach calming techniques i.e., take deep breaths, count to 10, take a walk and get a drink of water, write in a journal or talk to a trusted person.  We also teach a strategie called ‘De-Bug’.  1.  Ignore (don’t look at them or talk back (no arguing); turn your shoulder to that person)  2. Talk friendly the first time and tell the person to stop.  3.  Talk firmly and tell the person to stop. 4.  Move away.    5. Tell an Adult.

These are just a few of the strategies that we use at River Oaks Elementary.  As adults, its helpful to practice these strategies first, keep ourselves calm and ‘grounded’ and in doing so we will be role models for our children in positively handling conflict.

If you have any questions or comments or would like to talk it out about your personal situation with your child, please don’t hesitate to contact me by calling 313 827-8660  Ms. Leslie A.