How can conflicts among children be effectively resolved?

Teaching children problem-solving techniques is a highly effective approach to resolving conflicts among them. This method equips children with the skills they need to address disagreements constructively on their own, fostering independence and improving their ability to communicate and negotiate with peers. When children learn how to assess the situation, consider different perspectives, and collaborate to find a solution, they become better equipped to handle conflicts in the future. This not only helps in the moment but also contributes to their emotional and social development over time, as they gain confidence in their ability to resolve disagreements.

In contrast, the other options focus on more reactive or short-term strategies. Supervising all interactions, while helpful for preventing conflicts from occurring, does not teach children how to manage conflicts themselves. Punishing the aggressive child may instill fear or resentment rather than promoting understanding and resolution of the underlying issues. Mediation can be a useful tool, but if over-applied, it can lead children to rely on adults for conflict resolution, inhibiting their own development of problem-solving skills.