Introduction

Compromise is an essential skill for students in Special Education to help them navigate social situations and build strong relationships. It involves finding a middle ground when individuals have different ideas or preferences, ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued. By learning to compromise, students can solve problems effectively, foster empathy, and promote a positive atmosphere among peers.

No-Prep Activity

One effective no-prep activity to teach compromise is the “Two Ideas, One Solution” game. This activity requires no materials and can be facilitated by the educator as follows:

1. Divide the students into pairs.
2. Assign each student in the pair a different activity or preference (e.g., one student wants to watch a movie, while the other prefers to play basketball).
3. Ask the pairs to discuss their preferences and come up with a solution that incorporates both ideas, ensuring each person gives up a little to reach a compromise.
4. Once they reach a compromise, have the pairs share their solutions with the class.
5. Discuss the process and feelings experienced during the activity, emphasizing the importance of listening to others and being open to change.

Discussion Questions

After completing the “Two Ideas, One Solution” activity, use the following discussion questions to stimulate further conversation and reflection:

1. How did it feel to give up a part of your idea to reach a compromise? How do you think it felt for your partner?
2. Why is it important to listen to others and be open to change when trying to find a compromise?
3. How can practicing compromise help you build stronger relationships with your peers?
4. What are some real-life situations in which you might need to compromise? How can the skills you learned today be applied in those situations?

Related Skills

Teaching compromise is an important part of Social-Emotional Learning, but there are other related skills that students should also develop:

• Active listening: Being able to attentively listen to others helps students understand different perspectives and empathize with their peers.
• Communication: Expressing thoughts and feelings effectively ensures that everyone’s ideas are heard and considered during the compromise process.
• Problem-solving: Developing problem-solving skills helps students find creative solutions to conflicts and disagreements.
• Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others promotes a supportive and inclusive environment, making compromise easier to achieve.

Next Steps

Teaching students the art of compromise is crucial for their social and emotional growth. To access more resources and activities to help your students develop this essential skill, sign up for free sample materials at Everyday Speech. You’ll find a wide range of content designed to support your students in their Social-Emotional Learning journey.