When faced with a big choice, it can be difficult for adults to sort through the pros and cons in order to make a wise decision. Imagine how challenging that can be for a child, who is just developing their reasoning skills. It can help to give children some tools to aid them in their decision-making. As adults, we can guide them in their selection of choices by asking some pointed questions. When they have a few “GO TO” questions, children can begin to make choices on their own. It is important to give them opportunities to try out their decision-making skills in small, low-stakes decisions, even if we don’t necessarily agree with their choices. This is how they will learn. When they experience the natural consequences of their choices, it will help them in their future decision-making.
This week the Puppet Pals are in a variety of situations with decisions to be made. They learn to ask the following questions:
- Why do I want to make this choice?
- Will this choice help me?
- How will this choice impact others?
- Is it worth it to make this choice?
As your children watch the videos they can try to put themselves in the position of the puppets and think about what they would choose to do. The poster provides them with the 4 questions, so they can refer to them when making choices of their own.
This week of lessons includes four scenario videos that you can watch with your students Monday through Thursday, with follow-up questions for class discussions. Kids join the Puppet Pals on Friday as they try to answer Peter Leader’s questions on the game show What Would A Leader Do?
This week also includes a Simple Summary video in Spanish to help those who are developing simple language skills, while focusing on the target social-emotional skill of the week.
Leave a Reply