Accidents Happen by Libby

Let’s face it: accidents happen; and in my pre-k classroom which is just a tad too small for fourteen children, two adults, and ten interest centers, accidental bumps and hits are practically part of our daily routines.  Most of the children have learned to cope.  But for a few, these encounters can still distract them and quickly escalate into an over dramatized fit.  Aside from constantly reminding them that “accidents happen” and facilitating problem solving discussions and role plays around the issue, I am really not sure what else to do. 

I would like to open the discussion to all of you: educators, parents, administrators, or anyone who has ever averted subway rage resulting from an innocent nudge.  What are your ideas for teaching children about this inescapable part of life? 

Comments

[kathleen]

I think that helping students resolve these conflicts is one of the most important things we do. I so often see incidents in students in older grades escalate from an accidental bump to a fight because they expect the worst. I teach my student that accidents happen. That rather then get angry they can change the situation by using their own voice. "Did you know you bumped me?" Resolves a situation in a minute rather then allowing an escalation we so often see. I am a strong believer that teachers need to teach socialization skills every school year, through out the school year.

[kathleen]

I think that helping students resolve these conflicts is one of the most important things we do. I so often see incidents in students in older grades escalate from an accidental bump to a fight because they expect the worst. I teach my student that accidents happen. That rather then get angry they can change the situation by using their own voice. "Did you know you bumped me?" Resolves a situation in a minute rather then allowing an escalation we so often see. I am a strong believer that teachers need to teach socialization skills every school year, through out the school year.

[Sophia Pappas]

Thanks for the helpful tip, Kathleen. I have seen similar incidents among students in the older grades in my school and agree that teachers should teach conflict resolution skills to all grades.

Sophia