Helping Young Children:Control Anger and Handle Disappointment
Abstract
Helping Young ChildrenControl Anger and Handle Disappointment SAGE Publications, Inc.2003DOI: 10.1177/109625060300700103 Gail E. Joseph Ph.D. Positive Early Learning Experiences Center, University of Colorado at Denver, gailjoseph@ceo.cudenver.edu Phillip S. Strain Ph.D. Positive Early Learning Experiences Center, University of Colorado at Denver As a result of his teacher's careful selection of toys, materials, and play themes, four-year old Eduardo now is able to actively participate in a full range of free play activities. Yet, it is still the case that without this level of planning and subsequent, ongoing praise, Eduardo spends most days playing alone with one particular truck. On this day, Eduardo begins to play with the truck. He sets it aside for a brief moment, and another child, Jordan, approaches and takes the truck away. Visibly upset, Eduardo begins to scream and go after Jordan. His teacher, Miss Margaret, approaches and asks, "What is going on?" Eduardo is still trying to get at Jordan as Miss Margaret holds him and tells him he needs to calm down. Eduardo, half crying and half screaming, keeps repeating, "He took my truck and he always takes my things and he hates me!" Miss Margaret offers Eduardo other play ideas and begins