Problem Solving With Students

When a student is exhibiting challenging behaviors, try a one-on-one problem solving meeting where you seek to understand the student’s perspective and work to collaboratively develop a list of possible solutions to the problem. You might also try a whole class problem solving session if you are noticing multiple students exhibiting unexpected behaviors. Follow the problem solving steps and be open to testing the solutions that students come up with.

How did the problem solving meeting help you to understand why students were behaving in this way?

How much were you able to co-generate solutions to the problem?

How well were you able to approach the student with curiosity rather than judgment?

How did the problem solving structure work to help students notice their behavior and begin to self-regulate?

For useful examples of Whole Class Problem Solving and 1-1 Problem Solving, check out these resources from How to Talk So Kids Can Learn by Faber and Mazlish, and The Power of Our Words by Paula Denton. Use this Steps to Problem Solving Note Catcher to plan a problem solving conversation ahead of time. Preparation can help you be more intentional about using language that avoids blame and shame.