Conflict Resolution Steps Practice

Large poster paper

Markers for writing and illustrating the 4 steps

Tape for hanging the poster

Create a bright, clear poster with 4 steps: STOP. TALK. LISTEN. SOLVE.

Teach each step: Stop = pause, take a breath. Talk = say how YOU feel using "I" statements.

Listen = hear what the other person feels without interrupting. Solve = find a plan that works for both.

Role-play a scenario: "Two friends both want the same book. Let's use our steps."

Walk through it: "I feel upset because I really want that book. Can we take turns?" — "I hear you. How about I read it for 5 minutes, then you get it?"

Let your child practice being both the person with the problem and the listener.

Hang the poster and reference it during real conflicts: "This feels like a 4-step moment."

Practice with low-stakes scenarios first. Don't introduce the steps during an active meltdown.

Model using the steps yourself with your partner or another adult. Kids learn by watching.

The "I feel" format is: "I feel [emotion] when [action] because [reason]." Practice this sentence frame.

Praise the process, not just the outcome: "I loved how you used your steps, even though it was hard."