Knowing positive ways of solving conflicts is essential for
any teacher or administrator. In the early childhood field there are a lot of
different people who are working together to do what they think is best for the
children in the program. Classes are made of up teachers who serve students
from all different types of families, homes and backgrounds. There are bound to
be some conflicts arise between parents and teachers from time to time.
I have experienced a few conflicts over the years in my role
as a teacher. A time that especially stands out was when one parent was very
upset that their child continued to come home talking about how another child was
mean to her. The child the girl was talking about was a student with special
needs. My co-teacher and I were working very closely with the student with
special needs and keeping in very close communication with the student’s
parents as we worked to get him support from the local school district. While we
worked very hard to eliminate problems between this boy and the other students,
it was impossible to prevent all of them. It was especially frustrating to me
speaking to the parent who was very upset because there was only so much
information I could give her about the little boy. I did not feel like I could
give her details such as the fact that he had special needs.
From what I’ve been learning in this course I know that when
people are upset, they usually want to be sure that they are heard and
understood more so than they want the problem to end. I know that I could
compromise, making steps to help her feel better. I could let her know that I
would put her child in a separate group whenever possible or pay closer
attention to the interactions between the two children. I could repeat back
what she was telling me so she know she was being heard and letting her know a
little bit of the situation from my observations/perspective.
Colleagues- do you have any other ideas for how I would
solve a conflict like this in the future? I look forward to reading your
examples as well.
Hello,
ReplyDeleteAs an educator I have dealt with these same issues. I think what you have in your posts are great ways to resolve conflict. I guess just remember when it comes to resolving issues it's not the cookie cutter factor. Remember to tailor needs to specific students needs individual, what works for one may not work for another. Sure you already know this.
Good job,
Tierra Jackson
Laura,
ReplyDeleteGreat example to use as far as resolving conflict is concerned! You are absolutely right! I have learned that in order to resolve conflict quickly, you must be first willing to listen to the other person, and any concerns they may have! This is something that I am constantly working on! I have very quick to speak, and slow to listen which causes more conflict than the actual conflict itself. When it comes to parents, we want to make sure that we have their best interest at heart, and that we are doing everything possible to help their child! By taking this course, I have definitely learned that listening is extremely important! Great post!
Eboni Jones
Laura,
ReplyDeleteIt is so hard when there is a challenging child. I always try to empathize with parent of each child. They both have a perspective. However, I do have strategies that help redirect misguided anger and diffuse the situation! I try to shadow the "perpetrator" for a few days. I try to find out the root of the issue and be able to communicate effectively. I also encourage the parents to come in and be active participants and see the other children. This sometimes endears them to the child so they can help their own child with their perspectives.
Catherine
Great example. I think you hit the nail on the head. When it comes to conflict a large portion can be solved by simply listening to the other person. I often find that after just hearing my staff members out with their concerns or conflicts, a solution is right around the corner.
ReplyDeleteMegan
Good night Laura,
ReplyDeleteyour right knowing positive ways of solving conflicts is essential for any teacher or administrator…that is the best way to help alleviate or stir up conflicts and problems with students, parents, teachers, and the community. As an educator I use this technique to help run a smooth, fair, equitable daycare. Thanks for your post.
-Talisha
Both classmate's examples are issues I've dealt with recently, so I am guessing that means they are fairly common issues. First glad I am not alone, second I think it is important to practice these conflict resolution skills often. At some point, I hope it will become second nature and then we can make sure that we are focusing our energies in appropriate ways. Lord knows this is an exhausting profession and anything we can do to better our skills and selves the better! Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDelete