On Tuesday, we introduced the "peace rose" with a story and with modeling. The peace rose is a permanent fixture in our classroom and can be used by students at any time if/when they are having a conflict/disagreement with a peer, have their feelings hurt by a peer, etc. When a child is in one of the previously-mentioned situations, he/she goes to get the peace rose. Next, the child takes it to the person with whom he/she would like to speak and tells the person why he/she is feeling upset. The child who got the peace rose then passes it to the person who upset him/her. It is then that person's opportunity to explain himself/herself, apologize, etc. The rose is then passed back and forth between the children until the conflict/disagreement is resolved. Next, the 2 children hold the rose together and declare, "Friends". Together, the 2 children carry back the peace rose and return it to the vase. Using the peace rose is an effective way for children to practice and develop their communication and problem-solving skills with peers. It is also an opportunity for children to become more independent in resolving conflict with others. It empowers them! We stressed to the children that if a friend/classmate has hurt you by talking with his/her hands (hitting) or feet (kicking), etc., then you need to come to the teacher immediately. Physical acts toward others are not resolved with the peace rose.
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