Parent Magazine Volusia/Flagler June 2019 | Page 20

» » Model language that leads to a resolution, not
take another person’s background, training, and life
more conflict. For example you might say, “You’re experience into account when judging their behaviors
upset. Maybe you need some quiet time.” and beliefs. We may find that we’ll never “click” with
» » Listen to your child’s ideas and reassure them of
unconditional love.
» » Use everyday experiences to talk about other
people’s perspectives. “What is that character
thinking?” “How does it feel when a friend takes
your toy?”
» » Encourage pretend play. Acting out various
character’s words and actions is a healthy way to
another’s way of living or their perspective on life, but
we choose to respect them anyway.
Perspective taking helps children make sense of
their world. It helps them understand other people’s
thoughts and behaviors and predict what might happen
in a given situation. Children who learn this skill adjust
better in both learning and social situations and are
better prepared to make their way through life with
kindness and understanding.
explore other perspectives.
» » When you observe conflicts, take the opportunity to
talk about the problem. “Why do you think Jimmy
got angry with his friend?” or “What else could he
have done?”
Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and the author
of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun:
Unplugged. Find Jan at www.janpierce.net.
Putting ourselves in another person’s shoes isn’t easy.
And it’s possible to make mistakes. We may fail to
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