Kelso's Choices

Conflict and disagreement are a normal part of children’s development.  They often happen when children are together.  Our goal in the Bedford School District is to teach our students several positive ways to deal with these difficult situations.  Using Kelso’s Choices is a great way for students to practice conflict management skills and to learn to solve many of their own small problems.

Every child is capable of becoming a peacemaker and of solving conflicts peacefully.  Kelso the frog teaches students how to solve “small” problems on their own.  “Small” problems include conflicts that cause feelings of annoyance, embarrassment, boredom, etc.  “BIG problems” always need to be taken to an adult.  These are situations that are dangerous or when someone is being hurt. 

We teach students that if they have a small problem they need to try two of Kelso’s choices before asking for help.  If they have a big problem they need to go and tell an adult they trust.

By using Kelso’s choices, we believe that our students will develop effective problem-solving skills that they can use as they continue to grow and learn.  Independent problem solving will assist them in dealing with conflicts in a positive manner and teach them that they do have choices when they experience conflict with their peers. 

We encourage you to become familiar with Kelso's Choices and use it in your home.  Click here for a printable version of Kelso’s wheel for all of your problem solving needs!  Working together, we can develop a positive healthy life skill for our children to use at home and at school.