Problem Solving What is Problem Solving Problem Solving

Problem Solving

What is Problem Solving? Problem Solving is finding ways to make “wise” choices and create a win-win situations in life. There are no mistakes in life, only opportunities to get better!

Problem Solving List a few of the problems that you know people have to learn how to solve. • ______________________________

Become a Problem Solver! In every situation there are three questions that you can ask to make a “wise” choice and create win-win situations for everyone! 1. What ? : What is the problem that needs to be solved? 2. So What ? : So What are my choices and the related consequence? 3. Now What ? : Now what should I choose?

Step 1 WHAT: WHAT IS THE PROBLEM? Example: Fred isn’t playing “fair” at recess!

Step 2 So What? Pros (positive outcomes from this decision) • Fred may play fairly. (Alternative 1) Cons (negative outcomes from this decision) I could yell at Fred and hit • Fred may yell back and start a fight. him. • I will be sent to the principal’s office and suspended from school.

Step 2 So What? Pros (positive outcomes from this decision) • Fred may play fairly because he Alternative 2 feels sorry for me. Cons (negative outcomes from this I could ask him to decision) please stop, cry, pout, • Fred may continue to not play fair. and stomp away mad. • Fred will laugh at me and continue to play the way he wants.

Step 2 So What? Pros (positive outcomes from this decision) • Fred will realize his choices are affecting other people. Alternative 3 • I will be seen as a leader for making positive choices. I could go play another • I will be peaceful and happy. game. Cons (negative outcomes from this decision) • Fred may continue to not play fair.