Size of the Problem

Math is not the only activity that requires problem solving; we’re constantly problem solving socially when communicating with others, working in groups, doing homework, self-regulating, etc. Along the way, we encounter problems of different sizes that can cause all sorts of emotions. We teach students to use their strategies for figuring out the size of the problems and ultimately match the size of the reaction to the size of the problem (note: this concept should be taught differently to different ages). For example, small problems usually result in small reactions or none at all—however, this often requires emotional regulation—and that is easier said than done! In fact, some of us can get stuck focusing on negative emotions instead of solving the problem—which can cause even more problems. Join Michelle Garcia Winner as she cracks open problem solving and emotional responses and shares developmentally based strategies to help individuals navigate it all. Plus, discover which Social Thinking materials will help you teach social problem solving across the ages!

After watching this webinar, infuse your teaching with these lessons over the next month to help your students understand them deeply and meaningfully (avoid memorization). Then, tune in to our final webinar in the 10 Concepts series for best practices to teach sharing an imagination!

The 10 Concepts Webinar Series

This webinar is part of a series that shares best practices for teaching 10 core concepts from the Social Thinking Methodology. Strengthen your students’ social-emotional learning by infusing your teaching with these concepts over the course of the school year. Each concept should be taught slowly for one month or longer—it takes time for students to deeply understand the ideas and begin using them in their lives. We recommend learning about (and teaching) the concepts in order as they build on one another. View all the webinars in the 10 Concepts series within our larger webinar library.