Step 3: Make a plan

This is the next step in solving a problem.

Planning how to deal with the problem is the hard part because if you knew how to fix it or what to do in the first place, then there wouldn't be a problem, would there?

Making a plan involves 2 parts.

1. Take time out

• You need to think about what you could do to solve the problem.
• What different choices do you have?

2. Choose a solution

• Use the Solution starters if you need some ideas.
• Choose a solution that you think will help make the problem smaller, not bigger.
• It's important to think about the consequences of the solution you choose.
• A consequence is what could happen as a result of your actions.

Ask yourself these questions about your plan :

• Is it safe?
• Will the problem get bigger or smaller?
• Is it fair?

OK - you've finished Step 3 in solving the problem. Time to move on to Step 4.