Early Atlas

Activity

Problem-Solving Puppets

Two puppets act out a common conflict and children help name the problem, the feelings, and a fair solution.

Ages 36–60 months

Inspired by HighScope Play-based learning conflict-resolution problem-solving feelings prosocial

Supports this milestone

  • uses basic problem-solving skills to resolve conflicts with other children. — Head Start ELOF

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Materials

  • Two puppets or stuffed animals
  • One shared prop the puppets both want (a toy car or a single crayon)
  • Optional picture solution cards (share, take turns, trade, get help)

Steps

  • Act out the puppets discovering they both want the same toy and starting to argue.
  • Pause and ask the children, "What is the problem here?" and accept their descriptions.
  • Ask how each puppet might feel and put feeling words to the puppets' voices.
  • Invite children to suggest fair solutions and let the puppets try one out loud.
  • Replay the scene using the children's solution so they see the conflict resolved calmly.

Variations

  • Use a real classroom conflict from earlier in the day, kept anonymous.
  • Let children operate the puppets and act out their own solution.

Differentiation

  • Offer the picture solution cards so children can point instead of speak.
  • For older children, ask them to compromise so both puppets get part of what they want.

Accessibility

  • Pair feeling and solution words with pictures and allow AAC or gesture responses.

Safety

  • Keep real examples anonymous so no child feels singled out or blamed.

Practices these skills

Evidence

Early Atlas