Free printable · Kindergarten to Grade 5

Free size of the problem chart: how big is the problem?

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How Big Is the Problem? A chart with three colored rows, small in green, medium in yellow and big in red, each with examples under Like when… and picture reactions that fit (deep breaths, fix it, ask for help, take a break, get an adult now).

How Big Is the Problem? sorts problems into three sizes, each in its own color: small (my pencil broke, someone took my spot in line), medium (I feel sick, I forgot my lunch) and big (someone is hurt, I am lost, there is a fire). Beside each size are reactions that fit it, with a picture: take deep breaths and fix it, ask for help or take a break, get an adult now.

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What it is

A visual for matching a reaction to the size of a problem, for social-emotional lessons, counseling, speech and language groups and the calm corner.

How to use it

Teach it when everyone is calm, with made-up problems first.
Sort a few problems together: is this small, medium or big?
In the moment, point to the chart and ask: how big is it? What reaction fits?

Three quick tips

Say that every feeling is okay; the chart is about the reaction.
Use the student's own small problems as examples.
Praise a small reaction to a small problem when you see it.

Questions

Can I use it on a screen?: Yes. There is a version on screen where students tap the size of a problem.
What age is it for?: Kindergarten to fifth grade, and older students who need a visual for it.
Is it the same as a feelings chart?: No. A feelings chart names a feeling; this chart matches a reaction to how big the problem really is. They work well together.

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