Bad Behavior: Conflict

Why It’s Actually Not So Bad:

Peace isn’t the absence of conflict.  It’s the peaceful resolution of conflict.  Kids as young as two can learn the basic steps of how to stand up for themselves and stop behavior they don’t like.  Instead of punishing conflicts between kids, view them as an opportunity.  An opportunity to practice speaking up, setting limits and communicating directly to the other child peer-to-peer.  “I don’t like it when you pushed me!”

Keep it Appropriate:  Kids often need adult help to negotiate conflicts.  Don’t take over, though.  Bring them together and repeat kids’ words (“I hear Jenna saying ‘Don’t knock down my tower!’”) but make them talk to each other.