How to Help Your Kids to Compromise

How to compromise is an important value for children to learn.

As children develop and go through different stages, it is common for fighting and arguing to occur. It is important to let children try to handle disagreements as much as possible without adult intervention. Adults should intervene when it looks like violence might ensue or if it looks like a resolution isn't in sight. Parents can help their kids learn how to compromise.

Instructions

1. Separate kids who are name-calling or yelling. They should remain separated until they have calmed down.

2. Have each child state the problem from their point of view.

3. Have each child state what they want. For example, maybe one child wants to watch a particular show on TV but the other child wants to watch another show.

4. Help both children brainstorm ideas for how to compromise. Examples of this could be playing outside instead of watching TV or watching one show for 15 minutes and then watch the other show for 15 minutes.

5. Have the children agree to a compromise and praise them working out the solution.

References

• Kids Health: Sibling Rivalry