Promote Problem-Solving Skills (E2.2.17)
Sub Category: Developmentally Appropriate Guidance: Supporting Social and Emotional Development
Credential Level: Level 1 •
Age Group: Infant, Toddler, Pre-K
COMPETENCY STATEMENT
Uses guidance strategies that help children solve their own problems rather than relying on overly directive approaches (offers choices, encourages communication and problem-solving skills, models appropriate actions)
DEFINITIONS
Teachers help children develop problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills by offering choices, encouraging communication, and modeling appropriate actions. This supportive environment promotes empathy and self-regulation and helps children manage their behavior and interactions independently.
EXAMPLES
Promote Problem-Solving Skills
Age Group: Toddler
Age Group: Toddler
In this video the teacher models and encourages appropriate behaviors for children to use during mealtime. She provides a child with specific words to use to respectfully decline a drink and she suggests a more hygienic way a child can open a container with his hands.
Promote Problem-Solving Skills
Age Group: Pre-K
Age Group: Pre-K
In this exemplar video, a teacher engages in conversation with children playing in a center. Notice how the teacher encourages problem-solving skills and models communication –an example of using guidance strategies that help children solve their own problems rather than relying on overly directive approaches.
Promote Problem-Solving Skills
Age Group: Pre-K
Age Group: Pre-K
In this exemplar video, a teacher supports a child during a letter-matching activity. Notice how the teacher asks questions and gives choices to guide the child’s thinking—an example of using guidance strategies that build problem-solving skills.
Promote Problem-Solving Skills
Age Group: Infant
Age Group: Infant
In this exemplar video, the teacher comforts an infant who accidentally hit themselves and gently offers safer toy choices, modeling how to explore safely. Notice how the teacher encourages problem-solving by guiding the child to make safe choices—an example of using supportive strategies instead of being overly directive to help children solve their own problems.
Promote Problem-Solving Skills
Age Group: Pre-K
Age Group: Pre-K
In this exemplar video, a teacher says, ‘Repeat after me: I’m sorry, friends,’ showing children how to apologize. Notice how the teacher models problem-solving instead of just giving directions—an example of helping children learn to fix conflicts on their own.
Promote Problem-Solving Skills
Age Group: Infant
Age Group: Infant
In this exemplar video, a teacher supports the group during clean-up time and encourages sharing and taking turns. Notice how the teacher praises their efforts and gently reminds them to work together—an example of guiding children to cooperate and solve problems as a team.
Promote Problem-Solving Skills
Age Group: Pre-K
Age Group: Pre-K
In this exemplar video, a teacher supports a child during a puzzle activity by offering comfort, asking questions, and praising their effort. Notice how she reminds the child that it’s okay to ask for help—an example of encouraging problem-solving and communication instead of giving direct answers.