Story Solutions — Problem Solving Activity Kit (K–1)
A problem is easier to think through when it belongs to someone in a story.
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About this resource
A problem is easier to think through when it belongs to someone in a story. Story Solutions uses short read-aloud scenarios so kindergarten and first-grade students (Grades K–1) can name a problem, picture how a character feels and try out solutions without the heat of the moment. It builds the early steps of Responsible Decision-Making, in SEL activities that also practice empathy.
What students practice
- Identifying the problem
- Thinking of several solutions and choosing one
- Asking how a character feels
- Reflecting on how a solution worked
What’s inside
- A teacher script with timed steps, about 30 minutes, and a flexible outline
- Story Scenario Cards: 16 short problem situations, such as Chloe finding all the swings taken, in two card layouts
- Problem-Solving Steps worksheet: identify the problem, think of solutions, choose the best, try it, reflect
- Feelings Chart for before and after solving a problem (two versions)
- Five one-paragraph reflection stories, each with questions about how the character felt and what you would do; 24 pages
A look inside
- Teacher script: “What should Sam do if he still can’t find his toy car?”
- Reflection stories: Sarah’s Recess Dilemma, Tommy’s Homework Worry and Mia’s Block Tower Mistake
- From Mia’s story: “Mia apologizes to her friend and offers to help rebuild the tower.”
How to use this story solutions kit
- Introduce problems as something we can solve like detectives or superheroes
- Read a story aloud, such as Sam losing his toy car in the tall grass
- Have students answer the steps worksheet one question at a time by writing or drawing, while you record ideas on the board
- Connect Sam’s problem to students’ own lives and name the steps for next time
Grade fit
One question at a time, with writing or drawing, keeps the worksheet right for Grades K–1. Counseling groups can work through one scenario card per session.
Pairs well with
For more story-based thinking, Right and Wrong Storytime uses a read-aloud and puppets to talk through good choices, and Problem-Solving Puzzles adds hands-on puzzles.
Questions teachers ask
How long does the lesson take?
The script runs about 30 minutes.
How much story material is included?
16 Story Scenario Cards and five short reflection stories, plus the story read in the teacher script.
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