by Kathie England

“I wonder if…”

At the beginning of November I attended the International ADHD Conference in Philadelphia. The keynote address by Ross W. Greene, PhD inspired this month’s post.

Titled “Collaborative & Proactive Solutions: Moving from Power and Control to Collaboration and Problem Solving,” Greene’s keynote introduced the CPS (Collaborative and Proactive Solutions) model that has transformed thinking and practices in families, schools, inpatient psychiatric units, and residential and juvenile detention facilities throughout the world. This model is as applicable to adult-adult interactions as it is to adult-child interactions.

Greene explains that power doesn’t work! Collaboration does work. The goal is to shift from power and control to collaboration and problem-solving – with children and with adults.

Problems are highly predictable and by the time they show up, it’s too late. Punishment doesn’t teach skills. Incentives don’t solve problems or teach skills. Developing skills creates the opportunity for collaborative problem-solving.

“I wonder if there is a way…” is language that provides an opportunity to find a solution that works for both parties.

I wonder if you would take a small step to learn more about the work of Ross Greene. Visit these websites and explore how his work could impact your life.