Conflict is a part of family life. Even if unnecessary conflict is minimized, there will still be many instances of conflict needing worked through.
People (children and adults) learn by doing, and learning how to resolve conflicts is one of life’s most useful skills. Problem-solving in family meetings uses skills in listening, describing, Bounce Back [paraphrasing], brainstorming, evaluating ideas, cooperation, empathy, consensus building. Training for life happens as problems are solved in the family meeting.
Designating a time and place for problem-solving allows for cool-down, hopefulness, using procedures that are known to work, and puts everyone at their best, rather than reacting in the moment of stress.
Group decision by consensus can bring creative, effective ideas that no one thought of previously.
Consensus decision making is known to have a good compliance rate.
Children learn to see themselves as capable problem-solvers worthy of respect.
Adults don’t have to be the experts on what will work; adults can tap into kid-help with concerns they bring to the family; they build a relationship of trust, respect, and cooperation with their children.
