Plan B 113Adult (Empathy, with an attempt to clarify): I’ve
noticed that homework has been a struggle for us
lately. But I don’t think I understand why that is.
What’s up with the homework?
Child: It’s too hard for me.
Adult (Refined Empathy, with another attempt to
clarify): It’s too hard for you. Is there a certain part
that’s hard for you?
Child: The writing part. At school they don’t make
me do as much writing as you do.
Adult (Refined Empathy): Ah, the writing part is hard
for you and I make you do more writing at home
than they do at school.
Child: Yeah.
Adult (Define the Problem): I didn’t know they don’t
make you write as much at school. I guess I’m just
concerned that if you don’t practice the writing,
then it will always be really hard for you.
Child: I do practice the writing at school. But the
homework isn’t supposed to be to practice
writing—it’s supposed to be to practice spelling!
Adult (Reassurance, plus Invitation): I’m not saying
you have to do the writing at home. I just want to
make sure you’re getting as much writing
practice as you need. Let’s think of what we can
do about this problem. What do you think?
Child: I get plenty of writing practice at school!
Adult: Yes, so you said. I think the problem here is