Mistakes as Learning Opportunities

Case Scenario 1: Joey

Joey is a four-year-old child whose family recently relocated to a new town. Joey joined his new Pre-K classroom four months into the school year, after the community of the classroom was established and friendships formed. Joey is a rule-follower and seems to be adjusting well, but he usually plays alone and is shy. One day, Joey is painting at the art center and after finishing his own painting, he begins painting on another child’s work. The other child is visibly upset that her work has been painted on. She and her friend tell Joey that he is not nice and they do not want him there because he painted on her work. When confronted by the other children, he says that there was no more paper, begins crying, and runs to the corner. He has now isolated himself and refuses to speak to anyone.

Case Scenario 2: Olivia

Olivia is a kindergarten student entering school for the first time. She is an only child and has had little exposure to other children. While playing a game, Olivia takes all of the cards from another child. The other child tells Olivia, “That isn’t fair! You need to share!” as he grabs some of the cards back. Olivia gets very close to the other child’s face and yells, “I am the princess! Give me those now!” She then grabs the cards and hits him before walking away.