Problem Solving Puzzle Activity
Use the Problem Solving Puzzle Activity with kindergarten to 2nd grade to match hurtful words with kind, helpful words. Self-checking puzzles, practice page and answer key included.
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About this resource
Description
The Problem Solving Puzzle Activity teaches young children how to fix a social problem with their words. Kids in kindergarten, 1st grade and 2nd grade match a hurtful saying to a helpful saying that solves the same problem at school or at home. Swapping unkind words for kind ones is an important life skill that helps children make friends, share, and work through small conflicts on their own.
Each of the 8 puzzle cards has two pieces. The sad-face piece holds hurtful words, such as “Give me that right now!”, and the happy-face piece holds helpful words, such as “May I please have a turn when you are finished?” Children cut the cards apart on the wavy line, mix the pieces, and then find the matches. Every puzzle has its own tab shape, so a correct match fits together and checks itself. Students write each match on the recording sheet. This kindness matching game works well in a small group, a social skills lesson, or a calm-down corner.
What’s Included
- Colorful cover page
- How to Use page with prep tips and steps
- 8 two-piece self-checking puzzle cards
- Recording sheet
- 1st grade practice worksheet: circle the kind words
- Answer keys for the puzzles and the practice worksheet
Why Kids Love It
First, cutting and fitting puzzle pieces feels like a game, not a lesson. Second, the happy and sad faces help early readers sort the sayings. Third, children can act out each match and practice the kind words out loud.
Ideas for Teachers and Parents
Read the Problem Solving Puzzle Activity cards aloud with younger children, then role-play each problem with a partner. Post the helpful sayings on a classroom chart for students to use during the day. At home, families can play the puzzle together and talk about times they used kind words.
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