Encouraging Thoughtful Choices (E2.2.21)
Sub Category: Developmentally Appropriate Guidance: Supporting Social and Emotional Development
Credential Level: Level 1 •
Age Group: Infant, Toddler, Pre-K
COMPETENCY STATEMENT
Provides opportunities for children to make choices in a variety of contexts (peer play, one-on-one, and independent activities) and scaffolds instruction to help children link their choices and consequences
DEFINITIONS
Teachers help children to make informed choices and understand consequences by providing opportunities for children to make decisions, modeling appropriate behaviors, and resolving conflicts in calm ways. These strategies can help children develop self-regulation, empathy, and critical thinking skills.
EXAMPLES
Promote Problem-Solving Skills
Age Group: Pre-K
Age Group: Pre-K
In this exemplar video, a teacher helps children clean up by offering praise, checking in on their progress, and encouraging them to be careful with each other. Notice how the teacher gives choices and supports problem-solving—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: Toddler
Age Group: Toddler
In this exemplar video, a teacher facilitates a discussion about emotions using pictures that represent different feelings. Notice how the teacher uses visual prompts, open-ended questions, and encourages children to articulate their emotions—an example of using guidance strategies that help children solve their own problems rather than relying on overly directive approaches.