Parent to Parent: Conflict Resolution

WSVN -- This may look like a regular class, but the subject isn't math or science.

Laura Finley: "Tattling is something said to get someone else in trouble."

These students at Lauderdale Manors Elementary School are learning how to resolve conflicts without violence.

Laura Finley: "How to resolve those, when they do come up, in non-mean ways, non-bullying, non-violent ways, how to be good bystanders, be good friends, how to know what a good resource is if they witness something or are involved in something."

The eight-week program called "Get Real About Violence" was started by Women in Distress, an agency that provides help to victims of domestic violence. It teaches children to stick together and stand up for each other.

Ester Alexis: "So, when we get to middle school, and we see other kids, who are teasing other kids we won't be shy. We won't be scared. We'll just go up to them and confront them and tell them stop."

Seven's parenting expert Dr. Valerie Goode says, parents, listen up: if there's fighting in the home your children are likely to turn to violence.

Dr. Valerie Goode: "That's one of the worst things that happens with this because then every situation is resolved by becoming angry because this is what they learned in the home."

Dr. Valerie says teach children mutual respect -- that they don't have to agree with someone, but they do have to respect the other person's opinion.

And make sure they know that no argument should get physical.

Dr. Valerie Goode: "Nobody should ever put their hands on another person. That's also an indicator of a bad relationship if they are, but you should be able to talk over anything."

Dr. Valerie says teach your kids ways to calm down before things get out of control.

First -- take several deep breaths.

Second -- lower their voice.

Finally -- walk away and go talk to an adult they trust.

Joann Joseph: "I could stop violence in many ways by telling my resources around me, like my teacher or my guidance counselor."

The students here will know by the end of the class how to keep the peace.

Laura Finley: "We just can't do enough to prevent violence in our community and in our homes."

Lynn Martinez: "The 'Get Real About Violence' program has been approved by the Broward County school board."

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Women In Distress of Broward County, Inc.
P.O. Box 676
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33302
http://www.womenindistress.org

Domestic Abuse Hotline: 954-761-1133

IF YOU HAVE A CONCERN DR. VALLERIE CAN HELP WITH, E-MAIL US AT: