online problem solving activities for students

Give your brain a workout with these kids problem solving games and interactive activities. Find cool number problems and exercises as well as challenges that will test your logical thinking and reasoning abilities.

Help a frog jump stones, measure water with limited resources, get people safely across a bridge and more. If you get stuck, try thinking outside the square, sometimes it pays to step back and look at a problem from a different point of view. Have fun and enjoy these free problem solving games for kids.

15 Problem-Solving Activities for Kids & Teens: Critical Thinking

What is one of the most important skills all students must learn? Is it math or coding? Reading? Writing? While all these skills are indeed vital to success, the one skill that underlines all disciplines is problem solving. All lines of work need great problem solvers to find tomorrow’s solutions, and students of any age can be honing their problem-solving skills. Check out some of these fun problem-solving activities for kids and teens below!

Problem-solving activities for elementary school kids (ages 5-10)

From traditional paper-and-pencil activities to online tools, below are some great activities for kids ages 5-10.

1. Coding Courses for Kids

It’s never too early to start learning the foundational concepts of computer programming! There are a number of courses appropriate for young students to start building their problem solving skills, including the award-winning Scratch Ninja course . For the uninitiated, Scratch is a user-friendly colorful drag-and-drop coding tool developed by MIT for making awesome games and animations while learning important coding logic. Or, for students who are visual learners, try a Minecraft Redstone Engineering course to find out how to build awesome inventions! There are many free coding classes to start with, to find your child's interests.

2. Tower Building

Turns out that kindergartners might be better engineers than grownups (at least according to this experiment)! The challenge was as follows: given 20 pieces of spaghetti, a yard of tape, and a yard of string, build the tallest possible tower that can support 1 marshmallow on top. After various groups of people tried it from Stanford and other universities, kindergartners ended up beating them for creating the tallest tower. Challenge your student to see how tall they can make their tower too!

3. Crosswords

Whether taken out of the newspaper or off of the web, crosswords are a useful logic puzzle for kids to work on. Crosswords encourage students to use context clues, as well as their reasoning skills by eliminating possible options as they progress. Plus, it’s easy to vary the difficulty of the puzzles, as well as find fun, themed crosswords for different holidays! There's even a Thanksgiving crossword for your student to try.

4. Jigsaw Puzzles

There’s nothing like a good, ole’ fashioned puzzle to challenge the mind. Each person takes a different approach to puzzle solving, whether they organize their pieces first, find all the corners, or do something totally different. Exploring different strategies for solving puzzles is an effective introduction to independently creating strategies for problem solving. This is a solid choice for students who are visual learners.

An age-old classic, LEGOs are a fantastic way to combine creative skills with problem solving. Students need to follow sequential steps and visualize to create their LEGO designs. It’s even better when students go beyond the kit instructions to create their own LEGO build, as students will have to learn to utilize limited resources while coming up with a structured plan for designing their idea. LEGO Mindstorms is a popular starting point.

Problem-solving activities for middle school tweens (ages 11-13)

Middle schoolers (ages 11-13) will want to be challenged more with their activities, and these are some effective activities for encouraging growth.

6. Middle School Coding Courses

By the time they reach middle school, students will be ready to take on more advanced coding concepts, regardless of their prior coding experience. For those who have no prior coding experience, the Accelerated Scratch course is an excellent option, as it will introduce students to basic coding concepts while allowing them to make their games and animations. Students with some prior coding experience may want to try the Minecraft Code to Mod course, builds upon basic coding concepts like loops, conditionals, and more while building students' creativity and critical thinking.

7. Birthday Ordering

An activity commonly done at summer camps, the silent birthday lineup is an excellent problem-solving activity for groups. The goal is for students to line up in chronological order based on their birthdays, without talking at all. Working in total science requires students to think outside the box to accomplish their goal, and to prioritize teamwork. Try timing the students to see how quickly they can get it done, then let them reflect on the activity afterwards to see what strategies worked and what didn’t.

8. Event Planning

Have students plan their own event, like a fundraiser, a social, or a competition for their coding club . This will require students to collaborate by delegating tasks, coordinating supplies, budgeting, and more. Even planning something as simple as a pizza party still requires some logistical planning, and students will benefit from struggling through the process. Plus, they can get to enjoy the results of their work when the event finally arrives!

Arduino circuit boards are an excellent choice for children interested in engineering. Because Arduino is widely-popular, there are countless tutorials demonstrating its capabilities, such as creating a controller, custom RGB lighting, robotics, or more. Once students learn the basics, they can use Arduino boards to come up with creative solutions to their own problems. This is an excellent idea for highly-motivated kids who like to work by themselves.

Sudoku is an excellent number puzzle and a great problem-solving exercise. It requires students to evaluate multiple possible options as they try to fill in the puzzles, so students need to be able to create an organized approach to be successful. There are various difficulty levels for sudoku, so students can start easy, then advance as they become proficient at solving the puzzles.

Problem-solving activities for high school teens (ages 14+)

High school (14+) is a good time to incorporate group work into the activities, as students will need to learn to work collaboratively for their future in college and beyond.

11. Coding for Teens

Once reaching high school age, students are ready to tackle the complexities of text-based coding. This is where students can focus on their interests, whether it be web design , AI, app design , and more. Create & Learn’s Python for AI course is a good option, as Python is one of the most widely-used programming languages in the world. Students interested in game design might try the Roblox Studio course , which teaches students how to program their own Roblox games (or try the Beginner Roblox Game Coding course if they have limited previous coding experience.)

12. Robotics Club

Many different school programs offer robotics teams and robotics competitions , using tools such as VEX robotics . Robotics is a great way to combine computer science, mechanical engineering, and problem-solving skills. If there is no robotics team at your student’s school, consider trying a robotics kit such as the Makeblock mBot Ranger .

13. Egg Drop

This classic experiment is a lot of fun for students, and makes for a good competition as well. Students must build some sort of structure that will prevent an egg from breaking when dropped from a certain height (like the top of a staircase). It works best when students are restricted with the resources they can use; for instance, define a “ budget ” for parts that they can’t exceed, or give everyone the same materials to work with .

14. Debate Club

Whether deciding public policy or the best ice cream place in town, having the ability to engage in meaningful debate is critical. Debate forces students to self-analyze, listen, and think critically before making decisions. These skills benefit students’ futures by making them strong, independent thinkers. Check out these speech and debate competitions . And here are some tips for starting a debate club .

15. Science Fair

Science fairs pose an excellent opportunity for exploring the scientific method, both through creating personal projects and checking out other students’ presentations. By encouraging students to come up with their own projects, they must identify some question or problem and find a way to solve it. This can be the most challenging kind of problem-solving, as it requires the student to take initiative in finding their own ideas, but also can be the most rewarding. Try the Google Science Fair Competition .

Enjoy problem-solving activities for kids

And there you have it: problem-solving activities for students from elementary through high school age. Of course, there are many more ways to build critical-thinking abilities like problem-solving. For more ideas, check this list of awesome after-school enrichment activities !

Written by Create & Learn instructor Dominic Occhietti. Dominic is a graduate of Michigan State University, where he studied music performance and computer science. He thoroughly enjoys teaching, whether that be coding classes, French horn lessons, or even downhill skiing lessons!

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9 Online Educational Games That Teach Problem Solving Skills to Kids

Parenting is tougher than most people would expect—at least, 54% of parents agree . But you can reduce that burden a notch.

That's why we compiled these nine online games that teach kids problem-solving skills.

Apart from exploring online games that challenge kids to think strategically, we'll cover

• Escape rooms,
• Adventure gameplay

We'll also get into subject-specific games that keep kids connected to school lessons, including math and language skills.

Moreover, you might worry that they won’t access the right educational games for their ages. Left on their own, kids will stumble on content that's not age-appropriate.

But we don’t want that to happen.

So, we hand-picked the best online games your kids will love learning from even if they hate figuring things out on their own.

Take a look:

9 Best Online Educational Games To Teach Kids Problem Solving Skills

Fun games you’ll find in this list include:

• General adventure gameplays to teach kids strategy,
• Subject-specific games to help kids build math, language, or geography skills,
• Team-building activities that require them to work in groups, and
• Puzzles for learning critical thinking.

Let’s get right to it. 

#1 Code Breaker

Age Rating: EC (3 - 8)

This interactive game from Odd Squad will help your kids learn how to count and identify numbers, shapes, and patterns. Players can generate a number or shape following given rules and identify certain features that aren’t explicit in the rules.

Code Breaker is an extension of the PBS show , Odd Squad, which is the perfect mix of action and science fiction. 

Throw in some educational bits and you’ve got an awesome after-school activity for your child. Gamified learning content like this allows your kids to become skilled problem solvers. 

#2 Interactive Math Games

Age Rating: EC (3 -  14)

Most kids (adults too) find math either boring or challenging. It’s easy to zone out while the math teacher drones on about algebras and equations in the classroom.

Thankfully, technology has made math fun. Your child can subtract integers and match equivalent fractions while squashing fruits. 

The sound effects in the game are also fascinating for younger kids. You can find problems from early math to pre-algebra in interactive game forms suitable for children in pre-k to the eighth grade. These games allow kids to develop important age-appropriate math skills. 

#3 Sorting Box

Age Rating: EC (3 - 6)

Sid the Science Kid is another category of interactive games for children by PBS. It educates them on various topics and useful life skills. The game, Sorting Box, teaches your kid to sort items by colors , traits, and features while placing them into different columns. 

The character Sid, also offers useful tips and advice to players who get confused, making it easy for your child to have fun and learn effectively. Encourage your preschoolers’ curiosity about the world and how it works with this fun game. 

Age Rating: E (7+)

Now, this is a game everyone in the family can enjoy. If you have younger children who prefer group activities you could play Sudoku for kids . The rules are the same as traditional Sudoku puzzles except that the grids are easier and may substitute the numbers for letters or shapes. 

Where the game is concerned, more is fun, so be sure to include your kids’ friends. Allow them to improve their decision-making skills and the art of compromise. 

Stay connected with your buddies from school and friends from the neighborhood, solve puzzles as a team, and have loads more excitement with stable internet from GVTC .

#5 Oddstacle Course

Age Rating: EC (4+)

This entry from Odd Squad is an obstacle course game that allows players to cruise around different continents in a van, collecting trophies and points. The game plot involves fixing the oddness around the world caused by villains. Your kids get to defeat giant snowmen, enormous jelly beans, gargantuan babies, and more while building their geography skills.

With the help of the Odd Squad, they travel the world, gather clues to reveal the villain, and solve various problems. Oddstacle course provides both fun and critical thinking for kids. 

#6 Room Recess

Age Rating: E (7 - 12)

The more enjoyable a task is, the more kids engage with it. Reading games are no exception. As a parent, it’s important to get your child to enjoy reading since its success depends on how long they spend on the task. 

That’s where reading games come in handy. Interactive options like Reading Ninja and Sir Readalot teach kids all about conclusions, figurative language, context clues, syllables, fact, and opinion. Elementary students can focus on specific educational standards by learning new skills that challenge their comprehension levels. 

#7 Crossword Puzzles

Puzzles are another fantastic means of occupying your child’s time since they allow them to practice spelling and expand their vocabulary. Kids develop positive self-esteem through the game when they complete a crossword puzzle - especially when they require little to no help from parental figures. You can find puzzles covering various genres , topics, and children’s stories for the family to enjoy.

Pro tip — Create a custom crossword puzzle game for everyone to enjoy at family game nights, or for kids’ sleepovers at Crossword Labs .

#8 Brain Den

Age Rating: E10+

Brain Den features all kinds of puzzles and fun brain teasers from Logic Riddles, Alphametics, to Paradoxes. Test your child’s logic and problem-solving skills with a collection of puzzles of varying difficulty levels. Encourage their creativity by allowing them to come up with new riddles. 

You can pull up puzzles from this category and use them during game nights and other fun family activities.  

#9 Push-Pull Puzzles

Age Rating: EC (4 - 8)

This game was created by PBS to improve STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) culture in children from underserved communities.

The Push-Pull Puzzles teach kids basic physics concepts by navigating characters through whimsical obstacle courses. The game follows the Scientific Method of breaking levels into two major stages - planning and testing. 

In the first phase, the player observes a problem before them, develops a hypothesis, before testing it by pushing and pulling objects around. Help your kids practice critical thinking skills as they solve fun puzzles and explore science techniques. 

Safe Educational Online Gaming for Your Kids

Now that you know all the educational games that teach kids different logical and problem-solving skills, you can rest easy. Thanks to the entries listed here, your children can continue learning even when school isn’t in session. And now they can enjoy themselves while developing new skills. 

Are you uncomfortable with your kids spending all their free time on social media or playing games with adult ratings? Now’s the time for some educational games. 

Enjoy maximized gaming experience and WiFi speed of up to 1.0 Gbps/250 Mbps with GVTC WiFi/internet services .

Take control of your kids’ screen time with Premium WiFi with ExperienceIQ . The service allows you to take charge of your household by restricting access to non-age-appropriate content online with a click of a button.

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25 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids

Problem-solving activities for kids : Explore 24 fun problem-solving games and activities, and learn effective tips and strategies to teach kids problem-solving skills. If you want to explore problem-solving strategies more in-depth, you can also grab our workbook “ Problem-Solving for Kids ” (printable resource).

Problem-solving is the cognitive process of finding solutions to challenges or complex situations.

A systematic approach to problem-solving tends to include defining the problem, gathering information and data, generating potential solutions, evaluating the pros and cons of each solution, making a decision, and implementing the chosen solution.

Effective problem-solving often requires critical thinking, a good dose of creativity, and the ability to consider multiple perspectives. It may also involve identifying patterns, breaking down a problem into manageable chunks, and applying our logic to develop solutions.

Problem-solving is present in everyday situations and across all fields: business, science, personal life, and education. There is not one single aspect in our lives where we don’t need to apply our problem-solving skills.

Table of Contents

• Problem-solving steps
• Development of problem-solving in childhood
• Benefits of developing problem-solving skills
• 10 Tips to teach kids problem-solving skills
• 10 Examples of problem-solving strategies
• 25 Problem-solving activities and games for kids

Problem-Solving Steps

Some key components of problem-solving include:

• Identifying the problem Recognizing and defining the issue or challenge that needs to be addressed.
• Analyzing the problem Investigating and understanding the underlying causes, factors, and relationships related to the problem.
• Generating solutions Generating potential solutions or strategies to address the problem.
• Evaluating all possible solutions (Pros and Cons Analysis) Assessing the feasibility, effectiveness, and potential consequences of each solution. Considering the positive and negative aspects of each solution.
• Decision-making Selecting the best solution based on our analysis and judgment.
• Implementing the best solution Actioning our chosen solution
• Monitoring progress and results
• Reflecting on the outcomes Reviewing and evaluating the outcomes of the implemented solution, learning from the experience, and making adjustments if necessary.

Development of Problem-Solving Skills in Childhood

Children begin to develop problem-solving skills from a very early age, and these skills continue to develop and refine throughout childhood and adolescence.

Babies soon learn about action and reaction. And, as early as eight months, they begin to acquire an understanding of cause and effect (they shake a rattle, it makes a sound; they push a toy, it falls)

Between 13 and 24 months, they start solving simple problems through trial and error and engage in symbolic play using their imagination.

As children progress into middle childhood (ages 7-11), they develop more advanced problem-solving skills. They become capable of understanding multiple perspectives and can consider multiple factors when solving problems. They start using logic and reasoning to solve increasingly complex problems.

During adolescence (ages 12 and up), problem-solving skills continue to develop. Teenagers can generate and test hypotheses and use deductive and inductive reasoning to arrive at solutions.

Each child will develop their problem-solving skills at their own pace. Some children may show advanced problem-solving abilities at an earlier age. Others may require more time and experience to develop these skills fully.

Benefits of Developing Problem-Solving Skills in Children

Problem-solving skills in children are crucial for children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. It equips them to approach challenges, think critically, make informed decisions, and find creative solutions. 

The benefits of good problem-solving skills in children include:

• Positive impact on self-esteem and confidence Identifying, analyzing, and solving their problems contributes to our kids’ sense of competence .
• Fosters Independence and Autonomy When our kids are able to problem-solve on their own, they take one more step toward independence
• Academic Success Problem-solving skills contribute to academic achievement, as they help students analyze and solve complex problems across various subjects.
• Cognitive Development Problem-solving fosters cognitive skills such as logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and abstract reasoning.
• Critical Thinking Problem-solving enhances critical thinking abilities, enabling children to evaluate information, identify biases, and make informed judgments.
• Creativity Problem-solving promotes creativity by encouraging children to think outside the box, generate innovative ideas, and explore multiple solutions.
• Emotional Resilience Problem-solving skills enhance emotional resilience by enabling children to manage and cope with challenges effectively, reducing stress and promoting well-being.
• Improved Social Interactions/Relationships Problem-solving abilities contribute to better social interactions, conflict resolution , and peer collaboration, promoting healthy relationships.
• Future career success Problem-solving skills are highly valued in the workplace and can positively influence future career success.

10+ Helpful Tips to Teach Kids Problem-Solving Skills

Teaching problem-solving skills to kids is an important part of their cognitive development. It helps them develop critical thinking, creativity, and resilience.

But how can we help our kids and students to develop this essential skill?

We can help our kids and students develop and improve their problem-solving skills in many ways.  These are some helpful tips that you could consider:

• Model problem-solving behavior When you see yourself in a problem-solving situation, verbalize your thought process: “I wonder how I should address this issue. I guess my alternatives could be… They all have positives and negatives….”
• Let them participate in the problem-solving situation “Could you help me solve this puzzle?”
• Provide real-life problem-solving situations Real-life scenarios make problem-solving more meaningful for kids. For example, discuss how to resolve a conflict with a sibling or how to make the morning routine smoother.
• Teach them how to break down problems Show them how to break down complex problems into manageable sub-problems.
• Practice brainstorming Create brainstorming situations where all the family (or the classroom) can contribute to solving a problem
• Teach the value of perseverance Sometimes, we must stick to a situation and persevere before finding a solution. Encourage kids to persevere through challenges and setbacks, emphasizing that mistakes and failures are opportunities for learning.
• Encourage critical thinking Encourage kids to analyze situations, consider different perspectives, and evaluate possible outcomes.
• How could we make your school lunch healthier but still yummy?
• How could we reuse/recycle all this paper?
• What could we do to help you remember all the steps in your night routine?
• Encourage reflection When they can find a solution for a problem, don’t jump to solve it for them. Encourage them to reflect on the problem and find and evaluate alternatives. And after a problem is solved, think about the whole process and the learnings. “How did this work?” “What did you learn” “Do you need to change anything?”
• Foster creativity Provide them with opportunities for imaginative play, creative projects, and brainstorming sessions.
• Teach the value of teamwork Teach kids the importance of working together to solve problems. Engage them in group activities or projects that require teamwork and collaboration. This helps kids learn the value of different perspectives and work together towards an objective while they practice their communication skills.
• Teach decision-making skills Teach kids how to approach problems systematically by going through the steps we have mentioned in our first section.
• Encourage both structured and free play. Structured play can help you create good problem-solving situations, while free play will foster creativity.

Developing problem-solving skills is an ongoing process that will also continue in adulthood. Provide your kids with guidance and support, and celebrate their efforts and achievements along the way.

10 Examples of Problem-Solving Strategies

There are different strategies that can help us solve a wide range of problems. Here are some commonly recognized problem-solving strategies:

1 . Trial and Error : This is the first problem strategy that we ever learn. We start using trial and error strategies in infancy, and it continues serving its purpose in many situations. This strategy involves trying different solutions or approaches and learning from the errors or failures until a successful solution is found.

2. Algorithm: An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure or a set of rules that guarantees a solution to a specific problem. It is a systematic approach to problem-solving that follows a predetermined set of instructions.

3. Heuristics: Heuristics are mental shortcuts or rules of thumb that help simplify problem-solving by providing quick and efficient strategies. While heuristics can be effective in many situations, they may also lead to biases and errors.

4. Divide and Conquer: This strategy involves breaking down a complex problem into smaller, more manageable chunks or steps that make the overall problem easier to tackle.

5. Working Backwards: This strategy involves starting from the desired outcome and working backward to determine the steps or actions needed to reach that outcome. We often use this problem-solving strategy when we set goals.

6. Analogical Reasoning: Analogical reasoning involves drawing parallels between the current problem and a similar problem that has been solved in the past. By applying the solution from the previous problem to the current one, individuals can find a solution more efficiently.

7. Brainstorming: Brainstorming gets lots of brains working on the same problem. It is a great collaborative problem-solving strategy that can bring different perspectives and experiences to the table and may result in lots of creative ideas and solutions. 

8. Decision Matrix: A decision matrix is a systematic approach to evaluating and comparing different options or solutions. It involves creating a matrix that lists alternatives and the criteria for evaluation. It assigns weights or scores to each criterion to come up with the optimal alternative.

9. Root Cause Analysis: Sometimes, we need to understand what is causing a problem before we can attempt to solve it, as different causes may require different approaches (for example, when you are sick, your doctor may need to understand what is causing the problem before prescribing a medicine)

10. Simulation and Modeling: Simulation involves creating a simplified representation or model of a problem situation to gain insights and test different scenarios.

Our choice of strategy will depend on the problem, available resources, and our own personal preferences and circumstances. We may also need to combine strategies or apply different ones to different aspects of a complex problem.

(Disclosure: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. You can also read our Disclosure & Disclaimer policy  here )

Best Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Play-based activities are centered around play and are designed to engage children in active learning and exploration. And fun problem-solving activities are a great way to develop children’s critical thinking, creativity, and decision-making skills.

In this section, we will review some problem-solving games and activities that will engage your kids’ critical-thinking skills and creativity.

1. Puzzle Games Puzzles are a fun activity for children of all ages. Young children will enjoy simple puzzles, while older children (and adults!) can have fun with more complex ones. Encourage them to use logical thinking and problem-solving strategies to complete the puzzles.

2. Crosswords A crossword is another fun type of puzzle and a good source of mental stimulation.

3. Sudoku Sudoku is a popular logic-based puzzle that involves filling a grid with numbers.

It can be extremely easy or very challenging, adaptable even for young learners.

Let’s go now for a couple of building challenges!

4. Build the Tallest Tower Give the child a set of materials (Legos, building blocks, wooden blocks, or other construction materials) and ask them to build the tallest tower they can. This simple game will encourage them to problem-solve as they build and figure out how to make the tower stable.

5. Build Towers with Different Materials Ask your child to build three different towers with different materials. Then assess how stable they are and how much weight they can hold. Analyze the pros and cons of using each type of material.

6. Treasure Hunt Set up a treasure hunt with clues leading to hidden objects or rewards. Children will have to follow the clues and solve puzzles to find the ultimate prize. This activity encourages problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork.

7. Scavenger Hunt Playing Scavenger Hunt can be a fun way for our kids to put their creative problem-solving skills to good use. Provide them with clues and puzzles that they must solve in order to find the next clue.

8. Mystery Bag Fill a bag with random objects and ask children to come up with creative uses for each item. Encourage them to think outside the box and find innovative solutions.

9. Memory Game While memory games primarily focus on memory retention and recall, they can indirectly contribute to problem-solving skills by developing cognitive abilities such as attention, information processing, and adjusting their strategies.

10. Role-Playing Scenarios Create role-playing scenarios where children have to solve a problem or make decisions. For example, pretend to be stranded on a desert island and ask them to decide what items they will take and how they will survive.

11. Role-Play Social Situations Work in developing social skills with social problem-solving situations.

12. Brainstorming Sessions Choose a topic or problem and hold brainstorming sessions where children can generate as many ideas as possible. Encourage them not to limit themselves (even if alternatives feel unfeasible!)

13. Team Building Activities and Games Engage children in team-building games like building a balloon tower. Each team member will need to collaborate, communicate, and problem-solve together to complete the project.

14. Escape Rooms An escape room is a super fun team problem-solving activity.

In an escape room, participants are locked inside a themed room and must work together to solve puzzles, find clues, and accomplish tasks within a given time limit in order to “escape” from the room.

15. Science Experiments Conduct simple science experiments that involve problem-solving. For example, in the classic “sink or float” experiment, children predict and test which objects will sink or float in water.

Problem-Solving Board Games

There are many board games that will test our kids problems solving activities. These are just a few examples:

16. Cluedo Players must solve a murder mystery by deducing the murderer, the weapon used, and the location of the crime. Players collect and examine clues to eliminate possibilities and make logical deductions.

17. Codenames Another classic game where players are split into two teams and must guess words based on clues from their teammates.

There are many codenames games available, including themes like Disney or Harry Potter.

18. Mastermind Game In this strategy game players take turns setting and solving secret codes

19. Scrabble Scrabble is a classic word game where players form words on a game board using letter tiles.

Kids must use their problem-solving skills to analyze the available letters, consider the best word combination and strategically place those words to score the highest points.

Learning Problem-Solving with Card Games

Card games provide opportunities for kids to develop problem-solving skills such as strategy, memory, pattern recognition, decision-making, and observation.

Just a couple of examples:

20. Uno Uno is a classic card game where kids match cards based on color or number. They need to assess their cards, strategize and make decisions about which cards to play to get rid of their cards while also considering the cards in their opponents’ hands.

21. Go Fish Go Fish is a classic card game where players try to collect sets of cards by asking other players if they have specific cards. Players need to remember which cards they have and make decisions about who to ask and what sets to pursue.

22. Coding Challenges Introduce children to coding activities using platforms like Scratch (or ScratchJr for younger kids), Code.org, or Tynker. Coding involves problem-solving and logical thinking, and children can create interactive stories, games, or animations.

23. Outdoor Problem Solving Take children outside and present them with challenges that require problem-solving, such as building a shelter using natural materials or finding their way through an obstacle course.

24. Problem-Solving Worksheets Help your child follow a systematic approach to problem-solving with these helpful worksheets

25. Goal-Setting Activities for Kids Learning to set goals and make plans to achieve them is also a problem-solving activity. I have several resources to teach kids about goal-setting that I will list below:

• Goal-Setting Activities for Kids
• SMART Goals for Kids
• Goal Tracker Thermometer

Remember to provide guidance and support during these activities while encouraging children to think independently and come up with their own solutions.

Problem-Solving Worksheets

Looking for kid-friendly examples of problem-solving strategies ?

This workbook explores the following  problem-solving strategies  (with child-friendly examples and activities):

• Trial and Error
• Heuristics (Clever shortcuts)
• Divide and Conquer
• Working Backwards
• Brainstorming
• Decision Matrix
• Root Cause Analysis
• Systematic problem-solving

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15 Problem solving activities for students

In this guide

• 1. The detective game
• 2. Help ‘em out
• 3. What if…
• 4. Move IT!
• 5. The build
• 6. Just survive
• 7. Good old scavenger hunt maybe with a twist
• 9. Tower of terror
• 10. Community problem solving
• 11. Community problem solving documentary
• 12. Digital storytelling
• 13. Minefield/Lead the blind
• 14. Design sprints
• 15. Debates

Problem solving entails identifying, analyzing, and addressing challenges or obstacles using critical thinking, creativity, analytical skills, and reasoning. The World Economic Forum consistently ranks critical thinking and problem solving as top skills for the future in their list of essential abilities. 

Why is problem solving an important skill for students?

In a 2020 report, the World Economic Forum emphasized the growing significance of critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the upcoming years ( Whiting, 2020 ). These skills are vital not only for academic success but also for navigating challenges beyond the classroom. Let’s explore four key benefits of problem-solving skills for students.

• Student centered learning: Problem solving encourages student engagement by encouraging hands-on exploration and discovery. Students fully engage with a topic, they are not expected to simply absorb and memorize information. It recognizes and honors students’ individual learning pace, as well as their unique strengths, interests, and motivations. 
• Enhanced critical thinking: By tackling problems from diverse perspectives and evaluating information from various sources and viewing the problem from various angles, students are able to develop improved critical thinking skills.  Problem solving also cultivates systems thinking, enabling students to grasp the interconnectedness of systems, complex issues, and devise holistic solutions. 
• Confidence building: Through regular practice, students gain confidence in their problem solving skills, equipping them to address challenges across a wide variety of subject areas and real-life scenarios. “The goal in teaching problem-solving is for it to become second nature, and for students to routinely express their curiosity, explore innovative solutions, and analyze the world around them to draw their own conclusions.” (Marshall, 2022)
• Teamwork and communication: Engaging in problem solving activities nurtures essential teamwork skills such as communication and collaboration. Students learn to actively listen, respect diverse perspectives, and resolve conflicts in a constructive manner. Moreover, they develop goal setting abilities, organization, and build a sense of personal accountability within a team environment. 

Problem solving activities for elementary

Problem solving activities can range from simple to complex and short to long.

1) The detective game

• Gather 5-10 clues about a person, place, historical event, pop culture phenomenon, animal, etc. these can be physical clues or images of clues. 
• Place the clues to a bag and have students draw one clue at a time. 
• Encourage students to work in small groups to solve the mystery. 
• Require a minimum number of clues to be drawn (2-3) before attempting their first guess. 

2) Help ‘em out

• Engage students in brainstorming sessions while reading about historical events or fictional characters.
• Encourage small group discussion and decision making. 
• Students can work at desks or on whiteboards. 
• Challenge the students to identify the problems faced and devise creative solutions to alter the outcomes. 

3) What if…

• Create a list of moral dilemmas for students to ponder, ChatGPT would be perfect for this.
• Cut them up and put them in a bag for students to pull out of or use an online randomizing tool like WheelPicker to make the selection. 
• Students then have to share how they would handle the situation using ethical reasoning and decision making skills.

Here are the prompts I used on ChatGPT:

I am looking for a list of 15 moral dilemmas for elementary students to try and solve.

And a follow-up prompt:

Could you give 10 more that are based around honesty, fairness, respect, and peer pressure?

And here are 10 dilemmas ChatGPT came up with in seconds: 

• Truth dilemma: Your friend breaks something and asks you not to tell anyone. Should you keep their secret or tell an adult what happened?
• Fairness dilemma: You’re playing a game and your friend keeps losing. Do you let them win to make them feel better or play your best?
• Respecting property dilemma: You find money on the ground. Do you keep it, try to find the owner, or turn it into a teacher?
• Honesty dilemma: You accidentally take something that belongs to someone else. Do you return it, keep it, or ignore what happened?
• Respect dilemma: Your friend likes a certain game, but you don’t. They invite you to play. Do you decline and risk hurting their feelings, or play to make them happy?
• Cheating dilemma: You notice someone cheating during a class assignment. Should you tell the teacher or keep quiet?
• Environment dilemma: You see someone littering in the park. Do you pick up the trash, ignore it, or say something to the person?
• Privacy dilemma: You find a diary belonging to your sibling or friend. Should you read it or respect their privacy?
• Homework dilemma: You finish your homework but notice that your friend forgot to complete theirs. They ask to copy your work. What do you do?
• Peer pressure dilemma: Your friends want to gossip about another classmate. Do you join in, stay silent, or change the subject?

4) Move IT!

In this activity students are required to move an object across the classroom while navigating various constraints. 

• Introduce limitations such as restrictions on carrying the object, it can’t touch the floor, limited steps, use of specific body parts, or communication limitations with team members. 
• Encourage collaborative problem solving and creative thinking to overcome the obstacles.

5) The build

Provide students with materials like straws, marshmallows, paper cups, etc. and challenge them to build. Challenges can be the tallest freestanding tower, a bridge that can hold a certain weight, or other structures following specific rules. Students must learn to think creatively, collaborate, and iterate. 

Problem solving activities for middle school

Middle school problem solving can also utilize those activities mentioned for elementary school with some slight tweaks. But, here are some more middle school style activities.

6) Just survive

Use survival scenarios to encourage small groups to employ critical thinking, collaboration, and creative problem solving skills. These scenarios immerse students in real-world situations and foster resilience and adaptability. 

Many scenarios can be found online. Here are a few:

• Survival Island (complete with Google Slides)
• Plane Crash (survival game with a Hatchet by Gary Paulsen feel)
• Moon Landing (space survival game)

7) Good old scavenger hunt maybe with a twist

Scavenger hunts require problem solving skills to solve clues, think critically, and collaborate to complete the hunt. A fun and innovative way to do this was created by a friend named Kathi Kersznowski, co-author of Sail the 7Cs with Microsoft Education, called FlipHunt: 

A Fliphunt is a video-based scavenger hunt that is completely organized and run in the AMAZING Flip (formerly Flipgrid) environment. It is a wonderfully fun way to get students up and moving while exploring new learning or documenting understanding using the most beloved edtech site for amplifying student voice and student engagement in ways never known before! https://kerszi.com

Escape rooms are an amazing way to promote problem solving and critical thinking with middle school students. Students are presented with a scenario or challenge within a controlled environment, such as a themed classroom or designated area, where they must work together to decipher puzzles, uncover clues, and solve challenges within a set time limit. Escape rooms provide immersive and engaging problem-solving experiences.

There are a number of places teachers can go to find escape rooms, some paid, some free or freemium, and some physical with locked boxes or digital using Google Sites or Google Forms.

• BreakoutEDU – Standards aligned Escape Room games.
• Digital Escape Rooms from Ditch That Textbook
• How to make your own digital escape room with Google Forms

9) Tower of terror

This is a “Red Solo Cup” cup stacking game. 

• Students are given 3 cups and 2 large index cards. 
• Cups are stacked with a card in between each cup. 
• Student teams have 3-10 minutes (be fluid with your time depending on the class) to pull the cards and get the cups to nest on top of each other, earning a point for each successful attempt. Check out this X (Twitter post) by Jonathan Alsheimer , Tower Of Terror . This quick, simple game encourages teamwork, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration in a fun fast paced way.

10) Community problem solving

Empower students to address real-world problems from the local community or your school community. Maybe it’s a dangerous intersection, food waste with school lunches, or single-use plastics in the cafeteria. Students can research, analyze data, and propose solutions, fostering civic engagement and social responsibility. This is an activity that can also be used for high school students. 

Problem solving activities for high school

High school problem-solving activities build on foundational skills while providing opportunities for deeper exploration and application. Here are some elevated ideas tailored to high school students:

11) Community problem solving documentary

Challenge students to create short documentaries using their phones as cameras about solving problems they see in the community, in school, or in the world. Students can edit directly on their phones, on sites like Canva , WeVideo , or Capcut . 

12) Digital storytelling

Encourage students to harness the power of Digital storytelling to promote problem solving. Whether through videos, graphics, podcasts, or interactive presentations, data visualization, or digital books ( BookCreator ), students can craft compelling narratives that inspire action and promote a problem-solving mindset.

Check out Michael Hernandez’s book Storytelling with Purpose Digital Projects to Ignite Student Curiosity and you can listen to Michael on the TeacherNerdz Podcast .

13) Minefield/Lead the blind

This is an outstanding activity created by Dr. Krista Welz & Melissa Welz which involves communication, collaboration, and planning. The “Minefield” activity is  where one student navigates through a “Minefield” guided only by verbal commands from their peers. This hands-on exercise promotes teamwork, planning, and effective communication skills. Here is a detailed Google Slides explanation by the creators.

14) Design sprints

Introduce students to the concept of design sprints, a structured process for solving complex problems through rapid prototyping and user feedback.  Small teams collaborate intensely over a short period, usually five days (can be shorter a class period or a few days), to ideate, prototype, and validate solutions. Here is a famous design sprint from IDEO shown on ABC’s Nightline, the shopping cart design sprint:

Here are a few ideas:

• Redesigning the school cafeteria menu: Students work collaboratively to identify issues with the current cafeteria menu, brainstorm innovative solutions, create prototypes of redesigned menus, and gather feedback through testing sessions to ultimately present improved menu designs to school administrators.
• Redesigning classroom layouts for enhanced learning: This sprint focuses on reimagining classroom setups to optimize student learning experiences. Students research, ideate, prototype, test, and present innovative classroom layouts designed to foster a more engaging and effective learning environment.
• Creating solutions for reducing school waste: Students address sustainability concerns by identifying sources of waste within the school, brainstorming eco-friendly solutions, prototyping waste reduction strategies, testing their effectiveness, and pitching refined solutions aimed at minimizing waste and promoting environmental stewardship.
• 11 Activities from IDEO’s d.school for educators: Link

15) Debates

Facilitate lively debates on contemporary issues to stimulate critical thinking and persuasive communication skills.  Topics could include:

• Establishing a universal basic income to address poverty.
• Social media regulation to address misinformation and hate speech on platforms. 
• Banning TikTok or any social media platform
• Animal testing for cosmetics and scientific purposes.
• Space exploration funding: Should governments invest more resources in space exploration and colonization efforts, or should these funds be allocated to other pressing issues on Earth? 

As we navigate an era of unprecedented change and uncertainty, the need for problem-solving skills has never been more pressing. Gone are the days of lifelong careers; instead, today’s students face a landscape where adaptability and innovation are key. By integrating problem-solving activities tailored to elementary, middle school, and high school students, educators play a pivotal role in equipping the next generation with the tools they need to thrive.

As educators, parents, and stakeholders, we must acknowledge the role of problem-solving skills in shaping resilient, creative, and adaptable individuals. Educators should prioritize the cultivation of these essential skills in our schools and communities, empowering students to confront challenges with confidence, innovation, and creativity. When we do,  we not only prepare them for the future but also foster a generation capable of shaping a brighter tomorrow.

*Many, if not all, of the activities above can be adapted up or down the grade levels. *

• Daneshgari, F. (2023, March 29). High School Problem-Solving: 6 Activities That Work . Safes Parental Control App. Retrieved April 7, 2024, from https://www.safes.so/blogs/problem-solving-activities-for-high-school-students/
• Educator Guides: Activities from d.school Books — Stanford d.school . (n.d.). Stanford d.school. Retrieved April 7, 2024, from https://dschool.stanford.edu/resources/educators-guides-books
• Engaging Problem Solving Activities for Middle School Students . (n.d.). Everyday Speech. Retrieved April 3, 2024, from https://everydayspeech.com/sel-implementation/engaging-problem-solving-activities-for-middle-school-students/
• 5 Problem-Solving Activities for the Classroom . (2013, February 14). Resilient Educator. Retrieved April 7, 2024, from https://resilienteducator.com/classroom-resources/5-problem-solving-activities-for-the-classroom/
• Foshay, W. R., & Kirkley, J. (1998). Principles for Teaching Problem Solving . PLATO Learning Inc. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/262798359_Principles_for_Teaching_Problem_Solving
• Khanna, B. (2023, September 29). World Economic Forum Warns of Skills Gap in the Future of Work . LinkedIn. Retrieved April 3, 2024, from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/world-economic-forum-warns-skills-gap-future-work-bhupendra-khanna
• Marshall, M. (2022, October 5). Benefits of Problem-Solving in the K-12 Classroom – Institute of Competition Sciences . Institute of Competition Sciences. Retrieved April 3, 2024, from https://www.competitionsciences.org/2022/10/05/benefits-of-problem-solving-in-the-k-12-classroom/
• Understanding the Importance of Teaching Creative Problem-Solving in Elementary Schools . (n.d.). Everyday Speech. Retrieved April 3, 2024, from https://everydayspeech.com/sel-implementation/understanding-the-importance-of-teaching-creative-problem-solving-in-elementary-schools/
• Weil, Z. (2016). The World Becomes What We Teach: Educating a Generation of Solutionaries . Lantern Publishing & Media.
• Whiting, K. (2020, October 21). What are the top 10 job skills for the future? The World Economic Forum. Retrieved April 3, 2024, from https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/10/top-10-work-skills-of-tomorrow-how-long-it-takes-to-learn-them/

Ronald M. Nober

Technology/STEAM Teacher

Ron Nober is a technology/STEAM teacher and co-host of the TeacherNerdz Podcast. He has a focus on using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the classroom as well as connecting technology to social good.

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17 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids

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As a child, I would spend hours putting together puzzles… whether it was 3-D puzzles or figuring out a crossword. I also loved it when teachers would give the class an open-ended question and we had to work in groups to figure out the answer in our own way.

Even something as simple as playing checkers with my brothers gave me the chance to use strategy as a way to win the game. I honestly believe that it’s so important for kids to solve problems at a young age, as it helps them think critically and outside the box.

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So, Why Is It Important To Teach Kids Problem Solving?

I think these kinds of activities are so important for kids to do because it helps them learn how to think analytically and solve problems on their own. It's a great way to get kids to use their imaginations and be creative.

Rote memorization simply does not have the same effect. This type of learning is great for learning facts like historical dates, but it’s not going to help kids figure out how events in history happened and the results.

We take these problem-solving skills into college, the workforce, and travel . My ability to problem solve since childhood has certainly got me through many sticky situations while in a new city or country.

Additionally, problem-solving helps children learn how to find creative solutions to challenges they may face both in and out of the classroom . These activities can also be fun and used in cohesion with school or playtime.

17 Fun Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

1. marble mazes.

This activity was selected because it requires them to think spatially. Spatial learning will benefit kids when they start driving, riding a bike, playing sports,etc.

To do this activity in its simplest form, you will need a piece of paper, a pencil, and some marbles. First, draw a maze on a piece of paper using a pencil.

Make sure to create a start and finish point. Then, place the marbles at the start of the maze. The goal is to get the marbles from the start to the finish by tilting the paper and using gravity to guide the marbles through the maze.

Another example of a marble maze can involve using toilet paper rolls taped together to create a three-dimensional maze. The larger the maze, the harder you can make it.

Check Price on Amazon!

If you are not into the DIY method, you can always buy a toy maze on Amazon. A good 48 piece puzzle is the Melissa & Doug Underwater Ocean Floor puzzle.

2. The Tower Challenge

Building a tower gives kids the chance to think about gravity, structure, and balance.

To do this activity, you will need some building materials like legos, blocks, or even toilet paper rolls. The challenge is to see how high they can stack the materials without the tower toppling over.

This can be done individually or in teams. An activity like this is good for younger kids and is the building block to learning about harder topics like engineering.

3. The Egg Drop Challenge

The egg drop challenge helps kids learn how to engineer a solution that prevents something from breaking. It requires them to think critically about which materials will best protect something fragile like an egg when dropped from a height.

To do this activity, you will need some eggs and various materials such as straws, cotton balls, bubble wrap, etc. The goal is to construct a device that will protect an egg from breaking upon impact.

This can be done individually or in teams . Teams can even have a competition for the best egg drop device.

As children begin handling, shopping for, and cooking their own food, activities like this will help them understand how to handle breakable items like bottles, eggs, delicate fruit,.etc. Ideally, this is best for age groups 8 and up.

4. The Penny Drop Challenge

This activity was selected because it requires kids to think about physics and how different materials affect sound.

To do this activity, you will need a penny ( or another coin), a cup, and various materials such as paper towels, cotton balls, etc.

The goal is to drop the penny into the cup without making any noise. Begin by placing different materials into the cup and then drop the penny into it. The children should also drop the penny from different heights into the same material to see if/how the impact from a higher drop affects sound.

Group kids into teams or let them try it on their own.

Kids should make note of what type of sounds are made when the penny hits different materials. This is a great activity for kids who are interested in science and physics.

5. The Balloon Race Challenge

This activity was selected because it helps kids learn about aerodynamics and Bernoulli’s principle . It also requires them to think creatively about how to design a balloon-powered vehicle.

To do this activity, you will need balloons, straws, masking tape, and markers. The goal is to design a balloon-powered vehicle that can travel a distance of at least 10 feet. Kids can begin this activity by sketching out their designs on paper.

After they have a basic design, they can begin building their vehicle from various materials. Then kids can explain why they think the balloon traveled or did not travel as far as it did.

6. The Marshmallow Challenge

Marshmallows are not only delicious, but they are also soft and malleable. So kids can have fun using it for some construction projects.

This activity was selected because it requires kids to think creatively about how to build a structure using limited materials. It also helps them learn about engineering and work as a team.

To do this activity, you will need marshmallows and spaghetti noodles. The goal is to build the tallest free-standing structure possible using only marshmallows and spaghetti noodles. If you don't have spaghetti noodles, use something similar like pretzel sticks.

You may even want to establish certain rules like each team can only use a certain number of marshmallows or noodles. A time limit can also make it more fun and challenging.

For more fun activities, check out our post on problem solving exercises for team building .

7. The Balloon Pop Challenge

If you remember your childhood, you probably remember popping balloons for fun at times. But this activity is different because it requires kids to use strategy and critical thinking.

This activity was selected because it helps kids learn about patterns and problem-solving. It is also a lot of fun for kids who like popping balloons. The goal is to create a device that will allow them to pop a balloon without using their hands.

To do this activity, you will need balloons and various materials such as straws, string, paper clips, etc.

8. Picture Pieces Puzzle Game

As mentioned earlier, puzzles are a great pastime – especially in childhood. Kids must think critically about how to put the pieces together to create a certain picture. It also helps them learn about shapes, colors, and other concepts.

You can take a medium to large picture and cut it into pieces. If you have younger kids, you may want to make the pieces larger. However, if you have kids closer to the 8-11 age range, you should be able to provide a challenge and make the pieces smaller.

9. Copy the Block Model

For this challenge, you can build a model out of blocks for the kids to copy. Put kids into groups and make sure each group has the same number of blocks you used for your model.

Make your model block as simple or complex as needed for your child's age group.

Set a time limit and make sure each group starts at the same time.

10. Team Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is great for kids because they have to search for items and use investigative skills. It is also a lot of fun and can be done both indoors and outdoors .

To do this activity, you will need to create a list of items for the kids to find. The items can be anything from common household items to things you would find outside.

These types of activities can also revolve around a theme like a holiday, movie, or book. For example, if the kids are fans of “Harry Potter” you can make a list of items to find that are related to the movie.

11. Obstacle Course

This activity requires kids to think creatively about how to get from one point to another while maneuvering around obstacles. If you have outdoor space, this can be done with common objects such as hula hoops, cones, etc.

If you don't have access to an outdoor space, you can use common household items to create an indoor obstacle course. For example, you can use chairs, blankets, pillows, etc.

Begin by setting up the course and then timing each child as they complete it. You can also have them race against each other to make it more fun.

Obstacle courses are also great because kids get to be physically active while they are thinking critically.

12. Reading Storybooks

There are many great benefits for kids that read storybooks.  One of the excellent benefits is the ability to problem-solve.  When they read the stories in the books, they see scenarios that cause them to be attached to the various characters they read about. 

So, when they encounter a real-life problem, it is often productive to ask a child how their favorite character would solve that problem.  Your kids can also be encouraged to come up with various options and possible outcomes for some of the situations they may encounter. 

This not only helps kids solve various problems but become more independent as well. 

13. Ask Them Open-Ended Questions

A good way to improve a child's ability to think critically and creatively and improve their ability to solve problems is by asking open-ended questions.  It also helps them to develop healthy personalities .

There are no right or wrong answers to these questions.  In addition, the solution requires more than a simple “yes” or “no” answer.  Furthermore, it allows kids to put some extra thought into their responses. 

Here are some examples of open-ended questions you may want to ask. 

• What did this experience teach you?
• Was this easy?  What was easy about it?
• What this difficult?  What is complicated about it?
• What may happen next in this situation?
• How did you come to this solution?
• What, if anything, would you do differently next time?
• What can we do to make things more fun next time?

14. Build Various Structures with Toys

Whether wooden blocks, LEGO blocks, or engineering blocks… giving your kid blocks to build whatever their minds can dream up is fun.  In addition, it requires them to think about how they will make a structure, put the pieces together, and creatively ensure the building's function and design. 

You may also want to challenge them to build something more complicated and watch them use their brain power to make it happen. 

15. Acting Out Skits

Impromptu activities like acting out skits help kids identify problems, develop solutions, and execute them.  This process works with multiple kids being divided into teams. 

First, you will want to write down different situations, such as resolving a disagreement between siblings or dealing with bullying on the playground on a piece of paper.  Second, you will fold the paper and place it in a hat or bowl.  

Third, each team will pick a scenario out of the hat.  Finally, you can give the kids a few minutes to discuss their solution and act out. 

16. Solving Moral Dilemmas   

In this simple game, you will help your kids solve simple dilemmas they may find themselves in.  You could write down a situation your child may find themselves in and help them learn the moral way to solve the problem.   

For instance, “The cashier gave them an additional $5 change back on my purchase.  What should they do?”  Another scenario could be, “I saw my friend cheating on a test.  Should I tell on them or let it go?”  A third one could be, “I caught my friends stealing some gum from the store.  What should I do?” 

After writing down the dilemmas and placing them in a bowl, get each child to select one and read it aloud.  Finally, you will help them devise morally correct solutions to the moral dilemma. 

17. Animal Pairing Game  

This is a fun and creative game to help your kids with focus, critical thinking, and team building skills .  In addition, this activity requires an even number of players to participate (4, 6, 8, etc.) 

Before starting the game, you will want to write the names of different animals twice, each on a separate slip of paper.  Then pass out the slips of paper to each individual or team member, instructing them not to share with anyone the name of the animal they received. 

Then the children will perform activities the animals might do without talking or making sounds.  Some of these activities might include:

• The way the animal cleans or grooms itself
• The way the animal sleeps
• The way the animal fights
• The way the animal eats or drinks
• The way the animal walks or runs

The goal is for each child to successfully pair up with the other child who has selected the same animal.

How Problem Solving in Childhood Helps in Adulthood

Children are not born with problem-solving skills. It is something that needs to be learned and developed over time .

From babies who learn how to communicate their needs to toddlers who figure out how to get what they want, to children who are starting to understand the consequences of their actions – problem-solving is a process that begins in childhood and continues into adulthood.

Some of the benefits of teaching problem-solving skills to children include:

• Improved critical thinking skills
• Better decision-making skills
• Enhanced creativity
• Improved communication and collaboration skills
• Increased confidence

There are many ways to teach problem-solving skills to children. The activities mentioned above are just a few examples. It is important to find activities that are appropriate for the age and abilities of the child.

With practice, children will develop these skills and be better prepared to face challenges in both childhood and adulthood.

Final Thoughts About Fun Problem Solving Activities For Kids

These are just a few ideas to get you started on teaching your child crucial problem solving skills. Perhaps they’ve inspired to come with some of your own, or seek out others? The important thing is to make sure the activity is age-appropriate and challenging enough to engage the kids.

Problem-solving skills are important for kids to learn because they can be applied to various situations in life. These skills also promote critical thinking, which is an important life skill.

There are many other problem-solving activities for kids out there. In time, you’ll find the ones that work best for your child.  And be sure not to forget about your own needs and self-improvement, both of which will make you a better parent and mentor. Here are some useful activities for adults to get your started.

Finally, if you want to level up your parenting skills, then check out this resource that will show you how to get your kids to listen WITHOUT yelling, nagging, or losing control .

Logic & Thinking Games for Kids

Elevate your child's problem-solving abilities with our fun logic & thinking games for kids. They will learn to analyze, strategize, and think critically while having fun. Explore our collection now and provide them with endless opportunities to learn and grow. Start playing for free now!

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Logic and thinking-themed games are interactive activities designed to challenge young minds by requiring them to use critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic reasoning. These games involve creative challenges that stimulate cognitive development, enhance decision-making skills, and foster a love for learning in children. They provide an enjoyable way for kids to develop essential life skills while having fun.

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• Match Up!: Puzzles Game : Match Up! puzzles provide a mental workout, requiring players to find pairs or connections among objects, images, or symbols. This type of game enhances memory, concentration, and pattern recognition.
• Shape Building: Arty Crafty Games : Shape building games stimulate creativity and problem-solving as kids construct objects or scenes by fitting together various shapes. It fosters spatial awareness and encourages imagination.

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Home » Games » 17 Fun Problem Solving Activities & Games [for Kids, Adults and Teens]

17 Fun Problem Solving Activities & Games [for Kids, Adults and Teens]

Everyone should learn problem solving, as it is important in both our personal and professional lives. Problems occur all around us and many people react with spontaneous emotion. Instead, effective use of problem solving skills can lead to rational thinking, a component of any successful endeavor.

Creative problem involves using one or more of the basic steps of problem solving in exercises designed to challenge the thinking. Problem solving activities work for every age group. In this article, we will present problem-solving activities for adults and kids. We will also provide you with group and team building problem solving ideas.

Table of Contents

There are four basic steps in problem solving:

• define the problem
• generate possible solutions
• evaluate and select possible solutions
• implement solutions

Problem solving activities use one of more of these steps.

Group Problem Solving Activities

Group activities provide an effective way to learn problem-solving skills. The following list of activities present problem solving skills in the form of games, a non-threatening and fun way.

Divide your group into teams of equal numbers. Give each team a ball of yarn. Instruct the teams to create a web using only the yarn. Once the teams have finished (you may have to set an amount of time for completion), switch the teams around so that every team has a web other than their own. Each team then blindfolds one team member. The goal is for the blindfolded individual to unwind the web following the verbal instruction of their teammates. In order to be successful, team members must concentrate, and give/follow directions. The first team that has dismantled the web wins this game.

To Do Scavenger Hunt

This scavenger hunt game involves solving a list of problem activities. Begin by dividing your group into teams. Give each group a list of to do activities. The list should begin with some simple tasks, with increasingly more difficult activities. Some suggested activities are:

• Write a one hundred word poem on a given theme.
• Find an object readily available in the area in which you are playing
• Drink a whole can or glass of a liquid
• Solve a Sudoku or cross word puzzle
• Write out all the lyrics of a song (a Christmas carol works well at holiday time)

The team that completes all the activities first, wins.

Impromptu Skits

Prior to playing this game, write down a few appropriate situations that deal events in the venue in which you are playing. For example, for a group involved in customer service, use dealing with an angry customer on the phone. If you have a large group, divide them into teams of six to eight members. Have each group choose a folded piece of paper on which you have written the subject of a skit they must create.  Give a set amount of time to prepare the skit and then have each team present their skit to the group. If you have a small group, have each person create one side of a conversation dealing with the problem for presentation to everyone.

Block Duplicating

Build a model out of building blocks. Provide each group member (or divide into teams for a large group ) enough blocks to duplicate the model. Set a specific amount of time for completing the duplicated model. The team that is the first to finish – or gets the furthest on completing their model – wins. The more difficult the original model, the longer this task will take.

Team Building Problem Solving Activities

When choosing team building problem solving activities, make sure the game you use suits the group of people – their ages and interests. The activities we have listed will help with not only problem solving, but also build decision making, collaboration, and listening skills.

Tower Building

Although there are many variations to this game, this one using spaghetti and marsh mellows is our favorite. Divide you group into teams with an equal number of players. Provide each team with an equal amount of spaghetti and marsh mellows. The goal is to see which team can build the highest tower within a set amount of time.

Personalized Crossword

For this game to be effective, you need one or more teams of 8 to 10 people. Have each team list the first and last names of their group members. The goal is to create a crossword puzzle with clues composed of hints about the person, for example, if only one team member has red hair, the two clues for her first and last name could be, “Red hair,” and “Ginger.” It should take each team 20 to 30 minutes to complete their puzzle. When all the teams are finished, trade puzzles so that every team has a different one. Make sure you provide a list of names for the puzzle solvers.

Picture Pieces Puzzle Game

Prepare for this problem solving activity by choosing a well-known picture or cartoon full of detail. Cut the picture into equal sized squares and give one to each member of the group. You will need as many pieces as you have participants. Additionally, give each person a pencil, ruler for help enlarging the picture, colored markers, and a clean sheet of paper. Instruct them to make the puzzle piece five times larger.

Problem Solving Activities for Adults

Divide your group into two teams. Line up the two teams front to back. Have the two groups face each other. Using chalk, spray paint, or masking tape (depending on the play surface) mark a square space for each person to stand on with one extra empty space between the two facing rows. You may also use a piece of paper for each person. The goal is for the two facing lines of players to change places.

Place these restrictions on movement:

• Only one person may move at a time.
• A person may not move around anyone facing the same direction.
• A person may not move backward.
• A person may not move around more than one person on the other team at a time.

Playing Card Mix-up

Divide your group into teams of six to eight participants. Give each team two decks of cards randomly mixed together. Tell the group they must sort them out without talking. As they working at the task, after a few minutes, change the way in which they are doing so using one of the following:

• If a team is sorting by suits from ace to king (4 stacks), tell them to collect the suits together by number (13 stacks).
• If a team begins by collecting the suits together, i.e. all the ones, twos, threes, etc., tell them to sort the suits from ace to king.

The team(s) that do so successfully by the end of a given time (depending on the size of your group) share what methods they used to accomplish the task.

Blindfolded games are always fun and provide the perfect challenge for adult problem solving. We have provided two for you.

Blind Formations

Have your group of adults put on blindfolds and form a large circle. Tie the ends of a rope together and lay in it a circle in the middle of the group, close enough that each person can reach down and pick up the rope. Tell them they must create a shape – a square, triangle, pentagon, etc. If you have a very large group, divide them into teams and provide a rope for each team. Let them compete to see who forms a particular shape quickest.

Line up Blind

Blindfold everyone and number the group by whispering a number to each individual beginning at one. Tell them to line up in numerical order without talking. Variations are many, with some of the favorites not requiring the whispering step being to line up according to height, birthday, surname, color of hair, etc.

Balloon Tower

Divide you group into teams of three and provide ten balloons and four 3-foot long strips of masking tape for each team. The object of this problem solving activity is to build the tallest freestanding tower in ten minutes. They can break the balloons if they wish. However, they may not use any additional materials and the tower must be built on a table or the floor. If you wish, you may add the following instructions:

• No talking.
• Each team member may use only one hand.
• One team member may not touch the materials and only give directions.

You can use one or more of these limitations in 60-second intervals. The first team to complete their tower wins this challenge.

Problem Solving Activities for Kids

The purpose of problem solving activities for kids is to get kids to think about a problem in a different way and have fun while solving it. Children will develop their creativity as they seek to implement a solution.

Walking the Plank

For this problem solving activity for older kids or teens, you will need four 2×6 boards. Divide your group into two teams with an equal number of children on each team. Place two of the four boards end to end on the ground or floor. Set the other two parallel to the first two about two or three feet apart. The goal is for each team to pass one board forward while standing on the other board in single file. If someone steps off a board, the team must start over. The team that succeeds in passing the boards a set number of times, or reaches a predetermined spot is the winner.

“Laser” Web

Use a large ball of string to create a giant web from one end of a room to the other. The goal is for individuals or teams to move through the web without touching the string. If they do so, they have been “zapped by a laser” and must try again. For greater suspense and for older players, use blindfolds or turn off the lights, allowing players to touch the string, but not pull it down or out of its original shape.

Group Drawing

Divide your group of kids into teams of three. Each person on the team has a one of the following roles:

• Drawer . The drawer attempts to recreate a pre-drawn design they cannot see. They take directions from the talker. They stand with their back to the talker and viewer and may not talk.
• Talker . The talker describes the design to the drawer, without seeing the design. They may question the viewer. They may not use hand gestures.
• Viewer . The viewer sees the design. However, they are not allowed to talk and must communicate nonverbally to the talker.  Additionally, they must not draw the design in the air or actually show the design with their gestures.

The activity ends when the viewers say they are satisfied with the drawings. You may wish to award a prize to the best drawing.

Prior to playing this game, write on individual slips of paper the names of animal pairs, one name on each slip. Distribute the slips of paper to each group, instructing them not to share which animal name they received. The kids then move around performing activities their animal might do. The goal is for the kids to get into pairs successfully in a set amount of time without talking or making any noises. Suggest the following activities:

• Cleaning or grooming
• Eating and drinking
• Walking or running

Alphabet Game

Have your players sit or stand in a circle. The goal is to shout out words in alphabetical order. Give the kids one of the following categories (or choose your own):

If a player takes longer than five seconds to think of a word, they are out. The last player remaining wins the game.

People achieve more when they solve problems and make decisions together. Our problem solving activities teach participants how to work out a solution, a talent useful in many different environments. Problem solving:

• Improves team work
• Helps participants address complex situations
• Utilizes different thinking styles
• Increases creativity
• Collectively leads to decision making
• Teaches both negotiation and cooperation

After completing a problem solving activity, encourage participants to discuss what process(es) they used in the exercise. Even kids are able to participate in such discussions. Also ask what was learned and if they have any opinions about how they could have solved the problem more efficiently.

Team-building exercises can improve problem solving and decision making in a new or established team. They work with every age group and in many different environments. Use our exercises to help solve problems and have some fun doing so.

Susan majored in English with a double minor in Humanities and Business at Arizona State University and earned a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Liberty University. She taught grades four through twelve in both public and private schools. Subjects included English, U.S. and world history and geography, math, earth and physical science, Bible, information technologies, and creative writing.

Susan has been freelance writing for over ten years, during which time she has written and edited books, newspaper articles, biographies, book reviews, guidelines, neighborhood descriptions for realtors, Power Point presentations, resumes, and numerous other projects.

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Thanks for your help!!

excellent ideas – thanks !

Excellent ideas.

Thank you. My students have requested we do team-building activities; I thought we would start with problem-solving.

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Usable Math

(formerly 4mality), math learning through problem solving and design.

Usable Math provides interactive problem solving practice for 3rd through 6th grade students learning mathematical reasoning and computation through creative writing, NoCode slideshow design, and human-AI collaboration.

• Arrow Right MATH MODULES

Math Friends

Featuring four coaches Estella Explainer, Chef Math Bear, How-to Hound, and Visual Vicuna who offer reading, computation, strategy, and visual strategies for solving math problems.

Estella Explainer

"I help children understand the language and meaning of questions using kid-friendly vocabulary."

Chef Math Bear

"I provide computational strategies (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) for solving problems."

How-to-Hound

" I present strategic thinking clues (rounding, estimation, elimination of wrong answers). "

Visual Vicuna

" I offer ways to see problems and their solutions using animations, pictures, charts and graphs. "

The coaches annotate hints and provide feedback to help students with various levels of knowledge solve mathematical word problems using a wide range of strategies.

Math and ISTE Standards Based

Usable Math aims to teach mathematics concepts and problem solving skills based on the Massachusetts Mathematics Curriculum Framework and the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. Usable Math supports ISTE Standards for Students : Empowered Learner (1.1), Knowledge Constructor (1.3), and Computational Thinker (1.5).

Open Education Resource

Usable Math is an open education resource project developed in the College of Education, University of Massachusetts Amherst. Usable Math received a 2023 classroom grant from MassCUE (Massachusetts Computer Using Educators) . An initial version called 4mality was developed with funding support from the Verizon Foundation and a grant from the US Department of Education, Institute of Education (IES).

BROWSE MATH MODULES

Storywriting, history, and science modules, a sydney-the-statistician data analysis adventure, math & statistics, a tai-the-math historian time travel adventure, math & history, ai-enhanced, a sofia-the-forester adventure, math & storywriting, a jenny-the-fisher math and citizen scientist adventure, math & science, math problem-solving and design modules, area and perimeter, total problems: 6.

Total problems: 8

Multiplication and Division

Algebraic Thinking

Add & take away: how many more.

Add & Take Away: Find Totals

Geometry: Lines and Lines of Symmetry

Geometry: Maps + Grids + Ordered Pairs

Charts & graphs, total problems: 10.

Geometry: Figures, Shapes and Angles

Total problems: 7.

Total problems: 11

Place Value

Total problems: 14.

Total problems: 9

Total problems: 5

Measurement

More coming soon, ai-enhanced learning, introducing ai-enhanced math comprehension with estella explainer math bot 2, a gpt4-powered tool designed to revolutionize how elementary school students understand math word problems., free to use. a free chatgpt account is required..

Empowering Math Educators

A Reading and Language Coach: A Reading and Language Coach: Estella Bot assists teachers and tutors by providing simplified explanations of math word problems and vocabulary.

Fine-Tuning for Clarity: We have customized the bot to enhance young students' understanding of math problems through targeted fine-tuning.

Enhancing Student Understanding

Overcoming Challenges: Address the complexities of math word problems with Estella Bot’s support.

Step-by-Step Problem Solving: Inspired by George Polya’s methodology, Estella Bot helps students read and comprehend problems before solving them.

Applying the Feynman Technique: Estella Bot uses the Feynman Technique to simplify complex word problems for young learners, by breaking down complex math terms into easy-to-understand language.

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Natural Conversations: Engage in interactive, human-like conversations with Estella Bot to clarify and deepen math understanding.

Sample Dialogues: View examples of how Estella Bot simplifies math problems through clear and concise explanations.

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Using the Decision Tree: Utilize the Estella Explainer AI Bot Decision Tree to guide teaching strategies and support student learning effectively (scroll down for the decision tree visual).

Best Practices for Using Estella Bot

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Precision in Language: Use clear, concrete language in prompts for better bot responses.

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Share Your Feedback

We value your input on the Estella Bot and the Usable Math platform. Please send your feedback to [email protected] , or use our contact form .

Supporting Students in Reading Math Word Problems

Challenges in Math Word Problems: Understand the common reading challenges faced by students.

Step-by-Step Problem Solving: Explore the step-by-step approach inspired by George Polya’s problem-solving techniques.

Applying the Feynman Technique: See how Estella Bot uses the Feynman Technique to simplify complex word problems for young learners.

Welcome to Usable Math. In this interactive website, you will find Learning Modules designed to develop mathematical problem solving skills among young learners in grades 3 to 6.

Our Modules explore standards-based math concepts including Fractions, Measurement, Geometry, Decimals, Money, and more. Usable Math is free to access using a computer, smartphone, or iPad.

What do we mean by Usable Math?

The word Usable can read as follows:

U Able meaning you can do math problem solving.

Us Able meaning together all of us can do math problem solving.

Usable meaning anyone is able to learn math problem solving - with practice, effort, and support.

What are the Usable Math Learning Modules?

Each learning module in Usable Math consists of a group of math word problems related to a specific mathematical concept. The problems are based on the Massachusetts Mathematics Curriculum Framework↗ as well as Common Core Standards↗ .

Each problem within a module consists of a question, three to four possible answer choices, and problem solving ideas and strategies provided by our four coaches: Estella Explainer, Chef Math Bear, How-to-Hound, and Visual Vicuna.

How are the Modules Displayed online?

Each module has been developed using Google Slides.

Click. Pause. Solve.

View each module in Slideshow.

How do teachers, students and families use each module?

We strive to make every module on Usable Math kid friendly . Clicking on a module from the selections on the Modules Homepage , each user controls what happens during the learning experience by clicking to open strategies and spending time thinking about them before answering the question. The goal is for students, by themselves, in small groups, or with a teacher, or a family member, to analyze and understand what the problem is asking them to solve before providing an answer.

A question appears without its answer choices or any problem solving strategies.

Click one time and Estella offers a problem solving strategy.

Click again and the Bear offers a different strategy.

Click again and the Hound presents a strategy.

Click again and the Vicuna has an additional strategy approach.

The next click gives the four answer choices, but not yet the correct answer.

The final click highlights the correct answer from among the answer choices.

Before going to the next problem, a motivational statement and gif appears offering encouragement to the users.

What is the purpose of the Motivational Statements between Problems?

Each motivational statement is intended to provide feedback and encouragement to students using the system. Following the insights of researchers into the use of praise and the development of growth mindsets in young learners, these motivational statements are designed to reward students’ effort, hard work, persistence, and belief in one’s self as a learner. We want youngsters to realize that they can learn anything with the right tools, the right beliefs, the right coaches, and their own work and practice.

Need more help? Or have a question?

Reach out to us and we will do our best to get back to you within 12 hours.

RESEARCH AND RESOURCES

We believe that every child deserves a strong foundation in mathematics. our platform is designed to provide engaging and effective math instruction to elementary school students, and we are proud to say that there is science behind the way we deliver this instruction..

UsableMath was formerly known as 4MALITY. As a result of our commitment to providing the best possible math instruction to elementary school students, we have rebranded our platform as UsableMath.com to better reflect our mission and approach to teaching mathematics.

Our platform is designed to provide engaging and effective math instruction to students in grades K-5, using a unique approach that emphasizes hands-on, problem-solving activities. We use interactive, multimedia elements such as videos, games, and simulations to help students understand key mathematical concepts and build a strong foundation of knowledge.

Math Coaches

The use of virtual coaches that provides students with personalized support and feedback, has become increasingly popular in the field of math education. Research has shown that learning companions can be effective in improving student engagement and motivation, as well as helping students to better understand mathematical concepts and build a stronger foundation of knowledge. UsableMath employs the concept of learning companions to help students succeed in mathematics. Our virtual math coaches serve as personal guides, providing students with individualized support and feedback as they work through mathematical concepts and problems. These coaches, or learning companions, are designed to be like friends or mentors, helping students to build their confidence, overcome challenges, and achieve their full potential.

How are we using Generative AI to enhance Usable Math Modules?

As developers of Usable Math, we are aware of both the educational potentials and complexities of Generative AI technologies. In our system, ChatGPT is used to support teachers and other adults to expand and enhance how math can be understood and taught in schools and homes. When you click on the AI icon, you are linked to a blog where we have recorded how AI proposes to solve selected math word problems found in Usable Math modules in a side-by-side view next to the hints we have authored from the perspectives of our four math coaches: Estella Explainer, Chef Math Bear, How-to-Hound, and Visual Vicuna. Our hope is that our strategies along with the AI-developed strategies will give adults more ways to inspire math learning among students.

Look for this icon for AI-enhanced guides.

Prompts for ChatGPT, BingAI and Other Generative AI Tools

Estella Explainer Prompt:

Take the personality of a math coach who provides strategies for understanding language and meaning of questions using kid-friendly vocabulary. The coach’s motto is "My job is to explain the math questions clearly so you know what you are supposed to do to solve the problem. Sometimes there are unfamiliar or confusing terms in the question. I will help you understand what they mean. The first math problem is {replace math word problem here}

Chef Math Bear Prompt:

Take the personality of a math coach who provides computational strategies (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) for solving problems. The coach’s motto is “I am here to make sure that you know how to do the math needed to answer these questions. Sometimes you need to do addition, subtraction, multiplication or division. Some questions ask you to use fractions, decimals, large numbers, and probability. When you need ideas for what to do, I am ready.

How-to-Hound Prompt:

Take the personality of a math coach who uses strategic thinking clues (rounding, estimation, elimination of wrong answers) to solve math problems. The coach’s motto is “Answering math questions means you need a plan and my role is to help you figure out different strategies for solving problems. Sometimes you can get the correct answer by crossing out the wrong answers; other times you can round numbers up or down to make figuring a problem easier. I know other strategies as well.

Visual Vicuna Prompt:

Take the personality of a math coach who offers ways to see problems and their solutions using animations, pictures, charts and graphs. The coach’s motto is “I find math is a lot clearer when I take the numbers and words and put them into pictures and drawings or move objects around so I can see how to answer a question. When you find yourself unsure about a question, see if one of my ideas will explain what to do.

Growth Mindset Statements

As education researchers, we understand the important role that a positive attitude and motivation play in learner success. That's why we’ve integrated the use of growth mindset and motivational cues in Usable Math. After every math challenge, students receive messages that encourage them to adopt a growth mindset, reinforcing the idea that with effort and persistence, they can improve their math skills and achieve success.

A sample motivational cue from the Fractions module.

Collaborative Problem Solving

We believe in the power of collaboration and teamwork when it comes to learning mathematics. Our platform creates a learning climate that promotes collaborative problem solving, providing students with opportunities to work together and explore mathematical concepts in a supportive and inclusive environment. Whether you are a student, teacher, or parent, we invite you to explore our platform and experience the science behind the way we deliver math instruction to elementary school students. Read more about our work on the Journal of STEM Education↗

PUBLICATIONS

Our work is featured in:.

Usable Math online math learning technology, developed by Sharon Edwards, Robert Maloy, and Sai Gattupalli, represents a comprehensive effort to redefine and expand the concept of mathematical literacy for elementary learners. Our platform is designed to offer robust instructional support, helping students build a strong foundation in math that is essential for navigating the challenges of modern society, whether in the classroom, the workplace, or daily life.

On this page, you will find a collection of our publications, presentations, and blog articles that delve into the core methodologies and research driving Usable Math. Our work spans a variety of topics, from leveraging generative AI to enhance math learning to developing culturally responsive teaching strategies. These resources are designed not only to support educators in the classroom but also to contribute to the broader conversation on how we can better equip young learners with the mathematical skills they need to succeed. Explore our latest contributions to the field, and join us in our commitment to making math education both effective and engaging for all students.

Papers, Presentations and Blogs

Maloy, R. W., Gattupalli, S., & Edwards, S. A. (2024). Students Design Problem-Solving Slideshows. Mathematics Teacher: Learning and Teaching PK-12 , 117(8), 579-582. https://doi.org/10.5951/MTLT.2023.0215

UsableMath GenAI Prompts: Learn Math with Our Tailor-Made Prompts for ChatGPT, Claude, and other GenAI tools. Usable Math Blog. https://blog.usablemath.org/usablemath-genai-prompts .

Maloy, R. W. & Gattupalli, S. (2024). Prompt Literacy. EdTechnica: The Open Encyclopedia of Educational Technology . https://edtechbooks.org/encyclopedia/prompt_literacy

Gattupalli, S., & Maloy, R. W. (2024). On Human-Centered AI in Education. https://doi.org/10.7275/KXAP-FN13

Gattupalli, S., Edwards, S.A, Maloy, R. W., & Rancourt, M. (2023, October). Designing for Learning: Key Decisions for an Open Online Math Tutor for Elementary Students. Digital Experiences in Mathematics Education . https://doi.org/10.1007/s40751-023-00128-3 .

Gattupalli, S., Maloy, R.W., Edwards, S.A. & Gearty, A. (2023, August 23). Prompt Literacy for STEM Educators: Enhance Your Teaching and Learning with Generative AI. Berkshire Resources for Learning and Innovation (BRLI) Teaching with Technology Conference, Pittsfield, MA. ScholarWorks@UMass.

Blending Gardens and Geometry: Socio-cultural Approaches in Math Ed. Usable Math Blog. https://blog.usablemath.org/blending-gardens-and-geometry-socio-cultural-approaches-in-math-education .

Maloy, R. W., Gattupalli, S., & Edwards, S. A. (2023). Developing Usable Math Online Tutor for Elementary Math Learners with NoCode Tools . Scholarworks@UMass.

Gattupalli, S., Maloy, R. W., & Edwards, S. A. (2023). Prompt Literacy: A Pivotal Educational Skill in the Age of AI . Scholarworks@UMass.

Gattupalli, S., Maloy, R. W., & Edwards, S. (2023). Comparing Teacher-Written and AI-Generated Math Problem Solving Strategies for Elementary School Students: Implications for Classroom Learning . https://doi.org/10.7275/8sgx-xj08

Making Math Usable for Young Learners . Guest post on Rachelle Dené Poth's EdTech blog Learning as I go: Experiences, Reflections, Lessons Learned . January, 2023.

Math Learning Digital Choice Board (2020) . ScholarWorks, University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Maloy, R.W., Razzaq, L., & Edwards, S.A. (2014). Learning by Choosing: Fourth Graders Use of an Online Multimedia Tutoring System for Math Problem Solving . Journal of Interactive Learning Research , 25(1), 51-64.

Razzaq, L., Maloy, R. W., Edwards, S. A., Arroyo, I., & Woolf, B.P. (2011). “4MALITY: Coaching Students with Different Problem Solving Strategies Using an Online Tutoring System” (p. 359-364). In J. A. Konstan, Ricardo Conejo, Jose L, Marzo & Nuria Oliver, User Modeling, Adaptation and Personalization: 19th International Conference, UMAP 2011, Girona, Spain, July 11-15 Proceedings . Berlin: Springer Verlag.

Maloy, R.W., Edwards,S. A. & Anderson G. (2010, January-June). “Teaching Math Problem Solving Using a Web-based Tutoring System, Learning Games, and Students’ Writing .” Journal of STEM Education: Innovations and Research, 11 (1&2).

Edwards, S. A., Maloy, R.W., & Anderson G. (2010, February). “Classroom Characters Coach Students to Success.” Teaching Children Mathematics, 16 (6), 342-349.

Edwards, S. A., Maloy, R. W., & Anderson G. (2009, Summer). “Reading Coaching of Math Word Problems.” Literacy Coaching Clearinghouse . http://www.literacycoachingonline.org/briefs.html .

MEET OUR TEAM

Sharon Edwards , Ph.D.

Teacher Education & Curriculum Studies

College of Education, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Sharon (she/her) is a clinical faculty in the Department of Teacher Education and Curriculum Studies in the College of Education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Sharon is the big brains behind the development of Usable Math online math tutor.

Email : sae at umass dot edu

Robert Maloy , Ph.D.

Elementary Math and History

Bob (he/him) is a history and math senior lecturer in the Department of Teacher Education and Curriculum Studies in the College of Education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Bob is the creative math content creator and storytelling artist behind Usable Math.

Email : rwm at umass dot edu

Sai Gattupalli

Math, Science & Learning Technologies (MSLT)

Sai (he/him) is a PhD candidate at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he researches education technology to make STEM teaching and learning and more effective. Sai is passionate about understanding learner culture to create effective learning experiences. Email : sgattupalli at umass dot edu Website : gattupalli.com

Marguerite Rancourt

Lead Teacher, Discovery School at Four Corners

Greenfield, Massachusetts

Marguerite (she/her) teaches fourth grade at the Discovery School in addition to serving as Lead Teacher for the school. She has created and taught professional development workshop for other elementary school teachers. In 2018, she received the Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Award. Students in her class have been contributing to the design of system throughout the 2022-2023 school year.

Aubrey Coyne

Math Content Designer and Reviewer

College of Education, Commonwealth Honors College, University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Aubrey Coyne (she/her) is a sophomore at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She is a math tutor and is studying to be an elementary teacher. Aubrey is passionate about finding ways to make learning accessible and enjoyable for all students.

Graduate Student, Math and Digital Media Research Assistant

Sara Shea (she/her) is a graduate student at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She is currently part of the university’s Collaborative Teacher Education Pathway program, working towards earning her master’s degree in elementary education.

Katie Allan

Math and Digital Media Research Assistant

Katie Allan (she/her) is a senior at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She is a math major with a concentration in education and passionate about math education.

SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK

We welcome ideas from teachers, students, and families about the usable math system..

Please complete our UsableMath Module Review and Feedback↗ form.

Your responses will help us to improve how the system works instructionally and technically. Let us know any additional thoughts about the problems, characters, hints, gifs, mindset statements and more.

Your message has been received. We will get back to you shortly. The average response time is approximately 6 hours.

Problem Solving the Thinking Blocks® Way!

We updated our thinking blocks suite of learning tools with all new features. read aloud word problems - visual prompts - better models - engaging themes - mobile friendly.

Thinking Blocks Junior

Thinking Blocks Addition

Thinking Blocks Multiplication

Thinking Blocks Fractions

Thinking Blocks Ratios

Thinking Blocks Tool

Part-Whole A

Part-Whole B

Mixed Operations

Critical Thinking

Fraction of a Set A

Fraction of a Set B

Fraction of a Set C

Add and Subtract A

Add and Subtract B

Multiply and Divide

% of a Number

Taxes, Tips, Sales

% Challenge A

% Challenge B

Three Quantities

Common Sense Media

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Apps and Websites with Lots of Problem-Solving

Perseverance and grit are important character strengths that help kids develop the skills they need to tackle life's challenges. Help them practice sticking with things with these excellent (and educational) apps, games, and websites that encourage problem-solving. Kids will be inspired to brainstorm, make sense of clues, and try different solutions on their path to problem-solving fun. As apps that help kids cheat or solve problems with the click of a button rise in popularity, these tools will actually support kids' learning as kids try and try again while working through interesting challenges. For more social-emotional learning support, try these Games That Support Kindness and Compassion .

Bedtime Math

Daily math inspires, but word problems have little variety.

Delight in pre-K problem-solving duo's quirky adventures.

PlayKids - Cartoons and game‪s‬

Content galore with shows, games; strong parent controls.

The Cat in the Hat Builds That

Upbeat feline offers fun STEM exploration on- and offscreen.

Elmo Loves 123s

Kids learn numbers with beloved Muppets.

Hidden Pictures Puzzle Play

Fun, digital version of the beloved find-it magazine game.

Intro to Math, by Montessorium

Early math presented in varied and interesting ways.

Magic Math Academy

Learn math skills through instruction and story-based game.

Peep Ciencias: Rampas

Awesome tool to explore STEM concepts on- and offline.

SesameStreet.org

Brought to you by the letter "F" -- for fun.

Tami's Tower

Build a tower, test, and improve to help a hungry monkey.

DreamBox Learning Math

Online math games adjust in difficulty as you play.

Monkey Math School Sunshine

Early math game uses earning aquarium fish as incentive.

Montessori 1st Operations

Math concept work with clear instruction and fun rewards.

Adorable physics platformer creates little problem-solvers.

Thinkrolls: Kings & Queens

Fairy tales inspire fun, challenging puzzler.

Thinkrolls Play & Code

Delightful puzzles inspire innovation and problem-solving.

Arithmagic - Math Wizard Game

Spell-binding math game with increasing challenge.

BoxBoy! + BoxGirl!

Think outside the box with this charming, fun puzzler.

SHINE - Journey of Light

Capture the light in calm, unique runner.

Other great lists from our editors

• Great Games That Teach Strategy
• Games That Help Kids Think Critically
• Cool Tools to Help Kids Learn to Code
• 100+ Ways to Help Kids Learn Grit, Determination, and Resilience
• 7 Apps to Help Your Kid Be More Responsible

1 (844) 773-3822

26 Powerful Problem Solving Activities for Kids

As you navigate the busy aisles of the grocery store, your child’s hand firmly in yours, you’re hit by a sudden realization. You’re not just shopping for groceries; you’re in the midst of an impromptu problem solving class. 

Your child, curious and eager, starts asking you questions: 

• “Why do we choose this cereal and not that one?” 
• “How do we know how many apples to buy?”

In these moments, you’re more than a parent; you’re a guide, helping your child understand and navigate the world. It’s not always easy, especially when your child faces unique challenges. 

You know their path is a little different, their learning style distinct. You want to equip them with skills beyond the basics and empower them to tackle the hurdles life throws their way.

Problem solving isn’t just about finding solutions; it’s about building resilience, confidence, and creativity. 

You’ve seen it firsthand – the spark of understanding in your child’s eyes, the proud smile when they figure something out. These small victories remind you of the importance of nurturing these skills.

But where do you start? How do you turn everyday moments into enriching learning experiences? 

One way is to challenge your children by regularly providing them with problem solving activities. Here is a list of ideas: 

Want One-On-One Expert Help?!

Check this out.

#1 Puzzles and Brain Teasers

As you sit beside your child, engaging in a puzzle or brain teaser, you do more than spend quality time together. These activities are key in honing their problem solving skills, which are essential for their growth and development.

Why Puzzles and Brain Teasers Are Beneficial?

– enhances critical thinking: .

Your child learns to approach problems systematically, analyzing and forming strategies.

– Improves Concentration: 

These activities require focus, helping your child develop a deeper concentration level.

– Builds Persistence: 

Facing challenging puzzles teaches them not to give up easily, fostering resilience.

– Encourages Independent Problem Solving: 

As they work through a puzzle, they learn to rely on their skills and intuition, boosting their confidence.

Examples for Different Age Groups

– younger elementary students (5-8 years): .

Start with jigsaw puzzles that have a moderate number of pieces. Simple word puzzles or riddles are also great to stimulate their thinking.

– Older Elementary Students (9-12 years): 

Introduce more complex puzzles, like jigsaws with more pieces, logic puzzles, and basic Sudoku. These challenge their thinking and improve logical reasoning.

– Teenagers (13-18 years): 

Engage them with advanced puzzles, such as 3D puzzles, crosswords, and challenging brain teasers that require abstract thinking. 

When choosing these activities, consider your child’s interests and abilities to keep them motivated and engaged. It’s not about the complexity of the puzzle but the process of finding solutions and the learning that comes with it.

As they tackle these challenges, they’re not just solving puzzles. They’re building skills that will help them navigate the complexities of life.

Role-Playing Games

Envision your child diving into the world of a detective, a scientist, or a historical figure. Through role-playing games, they’re not just engaging in play.

They’re sharpening their problem solving skills imaginatively and dynamically.

Benefits of Role-Playing Scenarios

– fosters creative problem solving: .

Role-playing challenges your child to think on their feet, creating solutions in diverse scenarios.

– Develops Empathy and Social Awareness: 

Taking on different roles helps them understand various perspectives, building empathy and social skills.

– Strengthens Communication Abilities: 

These activities encourage clear and effective communication , vital for problem solving.

– Tailored to Individual Learning Styles: 

Role-playing can be adapted to suit your child’s unique needs and interests, making it an inclusive learning tool.

Role-Playing Ideas 

#2 mystery detective: .

Set up a mystery game where your child has to find clues and solve a case. This can be made more complex for older children, involving critical thinking and deductive reasoning.

#3 Historical Role-Play: 

Have your child take on the role of a historical figure. They can navigate historical events, making decisions based on the context, which enhances their understanding of history and its challenges.

#4 Science Explorer: 

Create scenarios where your child is a scientist or an explorer facing environmental or scientific problems. They can develop innovative solutions, fostering a love for science and exploration.

#5 Future World Builder: 

Engage older children and teens in creating and managing a city or civilization in the future. This kind of role-play involves strategic planning, resource management, and ethical decision-making.

When engaging in these activities, the focus should be on learning through experience and fun. Encourage your child’s imagination, validate their ideas, and guide them through the problem solving process. 

Remember, role-playing is a powerful tool that can make learning enjoyable and impactful for your child.

Building and Construction Projects

Whether it’s a simple craft project or a more complex construction task, these activities are not just about creating something tangible. They’re about building problem solving skills.

Why Building Activities Enhance Problem Solving?

– encourages practical thinking: .

As your child figures out how to assemble parts, they learn to think logically and sequentially.

– Develops Spatial Awareness: 

Understanding how different pieces fit together improves their spatial intelligence.

– Fosters Creativity and Innovation: 

They’ll learn to think creatively as they design and build, especially when improvising solutions.

– Teaches Planning and Organization: 

Planning out a project helps develop organizational skills and forward-thinking.

Safe and Accessible Building Project Ideas

#6 cardboard creations: .

Use cardboard boxes to build anything from simple houses to intricate castles. This is safe, easy, and allows for endless creativity.

#7 DIY Birdhouse or Insect Hotel: 

Older children can take on projects like building a birdhouse or an insect hotel, which involves more planning and precision.

#8 Recycled Material Sculptures: 

Encourage your child to create sculptures using recycled materials. This not only sparks creativity but also teaches the value of recycling.

#9 Simple Woodworking Projects: 

Consider basic woodworking projects for teenagers, like a small shelf or a picture frame. Ensure supervision and safety measures are in place.

Remember, the goal is to challenge yet not overwhelm. Start with simpler projects and gradually increase complexity based on your child’s interest and skill level. 

Encourage their efforts, celebrate their successes, and most importantly, enjoy the process of building and learning together. This is where practical skills meet creativity, leading to effective problem solving.

Technology and Problem Solving Activities

In today’s digital age, apps and games can be much more than distractions; they can be tools for learning and development.

Why Technology Aids Problem Solving?

– interactive learning: .

Digital platforms offer interactive experiences that keep children engaged and actively learning.

– Adaptive Challenges: 

Many apps and games adjust their difficulty based on your child’s progress, providing a continuous and appropriate challenge.

– Visual and Auditory Stimulation: 

Graphics and sound in digital games enhance cognitive skills and problem solving abilities.

– Accessibility: 

Technology can offer tailored learning experiences, especially beneficial for children with special needs.

Recommended Apps and Games

#10 puzzle games: .

Look for puzzle apps that challenge spatial reasoning and logical thinking. Examples include tangram-based games or block-fitting puzzles.

#11 Strategy Games: 

Games that require planning and strategy, like turn-based strategy games or resource management simulations, are great for older children.

#12 Coding for Kids: 

Introduce basic programming concepts through kid-friendly coding apps. These teach logical thinking and problem solving in a fun, interactive way.

#13 Educational Adventure Games: 

Choose adventure games incorporating math, science, or language puzzles within an engaging storyline.

When selecting apps and games, focus on age-appropriate ones, considering your child’s interests and skill levels. The goal is to find digital tools that challenge and educate, not just entertain. 

Encourage your child to reflect on what they learn and apply these skills beyond the screen. In this way, technology becomes a valuable ally in developing your child’s problem solving abilities.

#14 Escape Room Games

Visualize your child and their friends (or your family) immersed in the thrilling world of an escape room. This isn’t just an exciting game. It’s a dynamic learning experience where essential skills are developed as they work to solve puzzles and ‘escape.’

Benefits of Escape Room Activities

– teamwork: .

Escape rooms are a fantastic way for kids to learn the value of teamwork. They discover the importance of working together, communicating effectively, and sharing tasks to achieve a common goal.

– Critical Thinking: 

These games push children to think outside the box. They must look beyond the obvious, develop creative solutions, and apply critical thinking to overcome challenges.

– Communication: 

Effective communication is crucial in escape rooms. Your child learns to express their ideas clearly, listen to others, and collaborate to solve puzzles.

– Problem Solving: 

Escape rooms are all about solving a series of puzzles. Kids learn to identify problems, analyze them, and develop creative solutions under pressure.

Creating an Escape Room Experience at Home

– diy home escape room: .

Set up a simple escape room at home. Use clues related to your child’s interests, and create challenging yet solvable puzzles. It can be a simple treasure hunt with clues leading to the next step.

– Escape Room Board Games: 

There are board games available that mimic the escape room experience. These are great for rainy days or quiet evenings at home.

– Digital Escape Rooms: 

There are also digital escape room experiences, perfect for children who enjoy online gaming. Choose ones that focus on teamwork and problem-solving that are age-appropriate.

Remember, the goal is to challenge and engage your child in a fun, collaborative way. 

Through escape room activities, they enjoy an exciting adventure and develop essential life skills that will serve them well academically and personally.

#15 Indoor Rock Climbing

This activity is often overlooked, but it’s an incredible way for children of all ages and abilities to develop many skills beyond physical strength.

Multifaceted Benefits of Indoor Rock Climbing

– problem solving skills: .

As your child figures out the best climbing route, they use critical problem solving skills. Deciding which hold to grab next requires quick thinking and strategy, skills transferable to everyday challenges.

– Coordination: 

Rock climbing demands a harmony of movements between hands and feet. This enhances your child’s coordination, a valuable skill in many other aspects of their life.

– Strength Building: 

Climbing strengthens not just the arms and legs but the entire body. It’s a full-body workout that improves physical strength and endurance.

– Stamina Development: 

Maintaining their position on the wall for an extended period builds stamina. This persistence is mirrored in their ability to stay focused on other activities.

– Focus and Concentration: 

Successfully climbing requires complete concentration. Your child learns to focus their mind on the task at hand, a skill that’s invaluable in school and other settings.

– Self-discipline: 

Rock climbing teaches self-control and emotional regulation . Staying calm and composed on the wall is essential for safety and success.

– Boosting Confidence: 

Each climb is a boost to your child’s self-esteem . Believing in their abilities to reach the top instills a sense of accomplishment and confidence.

Getting Started with Indoor Rock Climbing

– find a kid-friendly facility: .

Look for indoor climbing centers that offer sessions for children. They provide the necessary equipment and guidance in a safe environment.

– Start with Basic Walls: 

Begin with walls designed for beginners, gradually moving to more challenging climbs as your child gains confidence and skill.

– Encourage Regular Practice: 

Consistency is key. Regular climbing sessions will help your child improve their skills steadily.

Remember, rock climbing is not just about reaching the top; it’s about the journey. Each step your child takes up that wall is a step towards building essential life skills in a fun, engaging, and challenging environment.

#16 Obstacle Courses

Imagine setting up a fun, engaging obstacle course in your backyard or living room. This isn’t just an entertaining activity for your child. It’s a comprehensive learning experience that builds many life skills.

Valuable Life Skills Gained from Obstacle Courses

– teamwork and cooperation: .

Obstacle courses often require collaboration. Your child learns the importance of working together, sharing strategies, and helping peers to achieve common objectives.

Each obstacle presents a unique challenge. Your child learns to think quickly, devise strategies, and find creative solutions to navigate through them.

– Perseverance and Determination: 

Obstacle courses can be challenging, teaching your child the value of persistence and grit. They learn to keep trying, even when faced with challenging tasks.

– Large Motor Fitness: 

These courses are excellent for enhancing physical fitness, improving strength, balance, and coordination.

– Mental Fitness: 

Besides physical agility, obstacle courses sharpen mental skills like focus, concentration, and stamina.

Setting Up a Simple Obstacle Course

– indoor course: .

Use household items like chairs, cushions, and tables to create a safe indoor course. This can include crawling under tables, hopping between cushions, or balancing along a taped line on the floor.

– Outdoor Course: 

Use natural elements like trees, hills, or simple items like ropes and hula hoops for outdoor space. Set up tasks like weaving between trees, climbing small hills, or jumping through hoops.

– Incorporate Diverse Activities: 

Add variety to your course with activities like throwing a ball into a bucket, balancing a book on the head, or hopping on one foot. This keeps the course dynamic and engaging.

Remember, the primary goal is to have fun while learning. Encourage your child, celebrate their successes, and perhaps even join to model teamwork and sportsmanship.

Through obstacle courses, your child enjoys physical activity and develops crucial life skills in an exciting and hands-on way.

Cooking and Baking Projects

Cooking and baking are not just about creating delicious treats; they’re an excellent way for your child to learn and practice many skills.

Skills Developed Through Cooking and Baking

– math and measurement skills: .

Recipes require measuring ingredients, which is a practical way for your child to learn about fractions, volumes, and weights.

– Reading and Comprehension: 

Following a recipe improves reading skills and comprehension. Your child learns to follow instructions and understand the sequence of steps.

– Science and Chemistry: 

Cooking is a fun way to introduce basic science concepts. They’ll learn about chemical reactions, like how yeast makes dough rise or how heat changes food.

– Creativity and Experimentation: 

Encourage your child to be creative, whether decorating cookies or experimenting with flavors. This fosters their artistic side and teaches them about trial and error.

– Life Skills and Independence: 

Cooking and baking are essential life skills. By learning these, your child gains a sense of independence and accomplishment.

Ideas for Cooking and Baking Projects

#17 simple recipes: .

Start with easy recipes like no-bake cookies, fruit salads, or sandwiches. These are perfect for younger children.

#18 Theme Cooking: 

Make cooking more engaging by tying it to a theme or a subject they’re learning in school, like baking pies when learning about circles in math.

#19 International Cuisine: 

Explore recipes from around the world. This not only introduces new flavors but also teaches about different cultures.

#20 Weekly Cooking Day: 

Dedicate one day a week to cook or bake something special with your child. It could be a time to try new recipes or perfect old favorites.

Remember, the kitchen is a fantastic classroom. It’s a place where your child can learn, make mistakes, and enjoy the fruits of their labor! Encourage them, guide them, and most importantly, have fun together in this delicious learning journey.

Incorporating Everyday Situations

As you go about your daily routine with your child, consider the myriad learning opportunities in these simple moments. Everyday tasks, often overlooked, are fertile ground for developing problem solving skills.

Turning Routine Activities into Problem Solving Exercises

#21 grocery shopping: .

Turn a regular shopping trip into a math lesson. Have your child help with making a budget, calculating discounts, or comparing prices. They learn about money management, estimation, and decision-making.

#22 Planning a Route: 

If you’re heading out to multiple places, involve your child in planning the route. Discuss factors like distance, time, and traffic. This teaches them about logistics, time management, and geographical orientation.

#23 Organizing Spaces: 

Ask your child to think of the best way to organize it, whether it’s their room, a bookshelf, or the living room. This encourages them to think about space utilization, categorization, and orderliness.

#24 Meal Planning: 

Involve them in meal planning for the week. They can help decide the menu, ensuring a balance of nutrition. This teaches them about health, planning, and the importance of variety.

#25 DIY Home Projects: 

Simple home projects, like planting a garden or painting a fence, can be excellent problem solving exercises. They learn about the process, the necessary materials, and the steps to complete a project.

#26 Time Management: 

Encourage your child to plan their day or week, balancing schoolwork, chores, and leisure. This helps them develop critical time management and prioritization skills.

Each of these activities, while mundane, is an opportunity for your child to think critically, make decisions, and solve problems. 

The key is actively involving them, asking open-ended questions, and encouraging them to think through their choices. 

This way, everyday tasks become more than just chores. They become stepping stones in your child’s developmental journey.

Tips for Success

As you embark on these activities with your child, keeping them engaged and motivated is crucial. Here are some practical tips: 

Keeping Children Engaged and Motivated

– set achievable goals: .

Start with simple tasks and gradually increase the difficulty. Achieving these smaller goals will boost your child’s confidence and motivation.

– Incorporate Their Interests: 

Tailor activities to include your child’s hobbies or favorite subjects. This personal connection makes learning more exciting and relatable.

– Offer Positive Reinforcement: 

Praise their efforts, not just the outcomes. Celebrate their progress and perseverance, which encourages a growth mindset .

– Create a Routine: 

Establishing a consistent activity schedule helps build discipline and a sense of anticipation.

– Provide Choices: 

Give your child options in activities or ways to complete them. This sense of control can be very motivating.

– Break Down Tasks: 

For complex activities, break them into smaller, manageable steps. This makes the task more manageable and more approachable.

Adapting Activities for Children with Special Needs

– simplify instructions: .

Use clear, concise language and visual aids if necessary. Breaking instructions into smaller steps can be very helpful.

– Flexible Approach: 

Be open to adapting activities based on your child’s needs. This could mean altering the pace, reducing sensory inputs , or providing additional support.

– Incorporate Sensory Activities: 

For children who benefit from sensory input, include activities that engage different senses .

– Use Assistive Technology: 

For children with physical or learning disabilities, utilize available technology to facilitate their participation and learning.

– Foster a Safe Environment: 

Ensure the learning environment is safe, supportive, and free from unnecessary pressures or distractions.

– Collaborate with Educators and Therapists: 

Work with your child’s teachers or therapists to align activities with their educational and therapeutic goals.

Remember, being patient, adaptable, and responsive to your child’s needs and responses is vital. Your support and encouragement can make a significant difference in their learning journey.

As you step into this journey of enriching your child’s learning through these diverse activities, remember that each moment spent together is about achieving a goal and creating lasting memories and invaluable learning experiences. 

Your role in guiding and supporting your child through these activities is a powerful force in their development.

We would love to hear about your adventures and discoveries. Share your stories with us in the comments below! 

Whether it’s the proud smile of your child solving a puzzle, the excitement of completing a DIY project, or the laughter that fills your kitchen during a cooking session, your experiences can inspire and encourage other parents embarking on similar journeys.

Additional Resources for Learning

• 29 Fun Activities to Help Kids Focus (With Proven Results)
• Fun Winter Break Activities for Kids Guaranteed to Bust Boredom
• 21 Simple & Fun Gratitude Activities for Kids
• The Ultimate Guide to Summer Learning Activities (Your Child Will Love)

If you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing it on Pinterest and Facebook. Join our Special Ed Parenting Facebook Community to connect with other parents of special needs children. 

Do you have a child that needs one on one assistance?  

We offer one-on-one special education tutoring that can be done from anywhere the student is! Why? Because our special education experts conduct their sessions online!

Get started with a free consultation  today!

Shannah Holt

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Top 50 problem solving activities, games & puzzles for remote teams

Blockchain and Crypto / March 6, 2022 by admin

Here is a list of the top 50 problem solving activities, games & puzzles best suited for remote teams. Read on!

What are problem solving activities?

The success of a company or organization depends heavily on the managers’ ability to help workers develop their problem solving skills. Problem solving activities that address areas such as teamwork and cooperation, adaptability or reinforcement of decision-making strategies help.

All processes of problem solving begin with the identification of the problem. The team will then evaluate the possible course of action and select the best way to tackle it. This needs a profound understanding of your team and its core strengths.

Not only among corporates, but problem solving activities find their use in educational settings as well. Students who are good at solving problems will become much more successful than those who are not. Remote work and education are on the rise.

Enabling smooth interpersonal communication to solve problems can become a task in these situations. However, engaging all the people concerned in problem solving activities before shifting to the remote space can ease the process.

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Key skills evaluated in problem solving activities

Problem solving skills refer to the necessary thinking skills that an individual or group uses when met with a challenge. Many issues require the use of several skills; others are easy and may require only one or two skills. These are some skills that help to solve problems,

• Communication skills
• Decision-making skills
• Analytical thinking
• Negotiation skills
• Logical reasoning
• Persistence
• Lateral thinking

Problem solving skill examples

Several problems occur at the workplace. Problem solving skills can be technical problems that occur on websites or apps or addressing client concerns. Problems could be simple or complex. Business managers spend time and resources to solve problems.

They encourage their team to improve their analytical and logical abilities. Common issues in companies can be exploding data or changing technology, or financial management.

Did you know? Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in problem solving!

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Problem solving scenarios

Many problem solving scenarios occur at work. The basis to solve any problem is to evaluate and arrive at a solution. Analytical skill or problem solving ability is a skill many employers evaluate while hiring candidates.

Strong problem solving skills can be an asset to any organization. Organizations organize problem and solution activities to improve the problem solving abilities in the workplace.

1. Decision making games

Businesses are looking for new and innovative ways to stimulate their staff. Decision making games help employees to learn new skills and work effectively as a team. Decision making activities help to improve the creative problem solving and decision-making skills of the team. Here are some best Decision-making games,

1. Dumb Idea first – This game gives a hypothetical problem that could occur in your company. Ask each manager to think of the dumbest solution to the problem. After compiling the list of the ideas, the team reviews them.

You have a brainstorming session to make the “dumb ideas” feasible. This problem solving exercise underlines the importance of out-of-box thinking.

Benefits: Decision-making skill

Time duration: 10 to 15 minutes

Team size: 2 to more team managers

Material: Paper and pencil

2. Egg Drop Idea – The objective of the game is to build a container to protect the egg when dropped from a specified height using the material provided. Each team nominates a presenter who explains why the egg will survive the fall.

Once they have presented the idea, the team drops the egg to check if the idea has worked. Egg drop pyramid activities like the marshmallow challenge help teams to think on their feet.

Benefit: Decision-making skill and is a top problem solving skill example

Time duration: 15 – 30 minutes

Team size: 6 or more

Material: A cartoon of eggs, aprons to protect clothes, material for packing (cardboard, tape, elastics, plastic straws, etc.), material to clean up.

Instructions:

• Every team gets an egg and should choose from the building materials. 
• Grant everyone 20-30 minutes to build an egg carrier and guard against breaking. 
• Remove each egg carrier from a ledge (that is, over a balcony) to see which carrier prevents it from cracking. 
• If several eggs survive, continue to heighten until only one egg remains.

3. Dog, Rice, and Chicken – The dog, rice, and chicken game can be fun decision-making activities for adults. In this game, one team member plays the farmer, and the other team members are villagers who advise him. The farmer has to take three items chicken, dog, and rice across the river by boat.

There are the following constraints:- only one item can be carried on the boat. He cannot leave the chicken and dog alone because the dog will eat the chicken. He cannot leave the chicken alone with the rice because the chicken will eat the rice grains.

Benefit: creative problem solving examples that are applicable at work.

Time duration: 10-15 minutes.

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2. Teambuilding puzzle

Team building exercises are fun and creative ways to get your team to work together and improve problem solving skills.

1. Lost at Sea – In this game, you and your friends have chattered a yacht to sail across the Atlantic Ocean. Since you do not have any navigation experience, you hire a captain and a two-person crew. Unfortunately, the crew and captain die when a fire breaks out on the yacht.

The yacht is severally damaged and is sinking. You and your friends have managed to save 15 items and a lifeboat. Your task is to rank the 15 items while you are waiting to be rescued. The activity lost at sea team building underlines the importance of problem solving skills in the workplace.

Benefits: Team building exercise and interaction

Time duration: 30 to 40 minutes

Team size: 4 to 6

Material: Lost in sea ranking for interaction chart for each member

2. Marshmallow Spaghetti Tower – The marshmallow team-building activities have the goal of building the tallest tower as quickly as possible. To make the task more challenging the marshmallow is placed at the top of the tower. This is a fun puzzle activity for team building.

Benefit: Teambuilding puzzle

Time duration: 30 minutes

Material required: 20 sticks on raw uncooked spaghetti, a marshmallow, masking thread, and yarn of thread.

3. Go for Gold – This is an example of a marshmallow challenge similar to activities. The objective of this exercise is to create a structure using pipes, rubber tubing, and cardboard to carry a marble from point A to point B using gravity.

Benefit: team building problem solving scenario examples

Team size: Minimum 6 persons

Material required: Each member has different material

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3. Work Problem Solving

Work problem solving activities help to use the skills you used in problem solving activities in your workplace.

1. Create your own – this game aims to create a brand new problem solving activity for the organization. The team can brainstorm for 1 hour. After one hour each team has to give a presentation about their activity outlining the key benefits.

Benefit: Understanding the problem solving process. Build creativity, improve negotiation, and Decision-making skills

• When the participants arrive, you declare that they will create an original problem solving activity on their own, rather than spending an hour on an existing problem solving team-building exercise. 
• Divide members into teams and encourage them to develop a new problem solving team-building exercise that will fit well with the organization. The activity should not be one they have engaged in or heard of before.
• Every team has to show their new activity to everyone else after an hour and outline the main benefits.

2. Shrinking Vessel – make a shape on the floor using a rope where all the team members can fit. Reduce the size every 10 -15 minutes. The real challenge for the team is figuring out how to work together and keep everyone together.

Benefits: Adaptability and cognitive diversity

Material: Rope and large room

• Place on the floor a big circle of rope. Position your whole team inside the circle. 
• Lessen the circle size steadily. When it gets smaller, advise the team to keep the entire team inside the circle. Nobody must move out of the loop. See how small you can make the area until it cannot remain inside.

3. Legoman – the team is divided into groups of two or more people. Select an impartial individual who will make a structure in 10 minutes. Each team will compete to recreate it in fifteen minutes. Only one person is allowed to see the structure. They need to communicate vital parameters like color, shape, and size.

Benefits: Communication

Tools: Lego

4. What Would X Do – This problem solving activity stimulates teams to think of new ideas.

• Benefits: Instant problem solving
• Time Duration: 10-15 minutes
• Materials Required: N/A
• Let every team pretend to be someone famous. 
• Every team needs to address the issue as if they were a famous person. Which are the choices they would consider? How will they do this? 
• It helps all to consider options they may not have initially thought of.

Tip: Before you decide, a problem is worth solving, weigh the risks of solving it versus not solving it. 

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4. Team building riddles

Team building riddles are a great way to show the team group problem solving is usually more effective.

1. Barter puzzle – the team is broken into groups. Give each team a different jigsaw puzzle to solve. The groups have to complete the puzzle at the same time. The twist in the game is that some pieces of their puzzle belong to other puzzles.

The goal is to complete the puzzle before the other teams. Each group has to come with their method to convince other teams to handover the pieces they need, either by bartering pieces or donating time to the other teams. This puzzle piece team-building activity helps teams to collaborate.

Benefit: Team building and negotiating.

Material: Jigsaw puzzle for each team

Time: 30 minutes

2. Scavenger Hunt – in this game, each team has a list of the article to locate and bring back. The goal of the game is to finish the assigned list first. In the scavenger hunt, the team has a time limit to make the game more challenging. You have the flexibility of having the hunt outside or within the premises. The team-building puzzle game helps the team to look for creative solutions.

3. Escape – the goal is to solve clues and find the key to unlock the door in a limited time. Hide the key and a list of clues around the room. The team has 30 to 60 minutes to figure out the clues and unlock the door.

Benefit: Team building exercise

Material: Rope, key, lockable room, 5 to 10 puzzles

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5. Work together problems

Work together on problems helps to underline the need to collaborate while solving issues at work. Group challenge activities help the team work well together.

1. Bonding belt – each group is divided into 5 to 6 participants, who are bound together with rope or tape so that their movements are limited. The team has to reach from point A to point B, and the time is recorded. The teams collaborate to beat their previous score.

Benefits: Helps the team to collaborate and skills for problem solving scenario/

Time: 20 to 30 minutes

Material: Cling film, belt, or rope

2. Scramble puzzle – the team members with blindfolds sit in a circle with the puzzle. The teammate without the blindfold sits outside the circle, with their back to the group. The blindfolded group tries to assemble the pieces of the puzzle. The outsider who has the same puzzle gives the team instructions to solve it.

Benefits: trust, leadership, and communication

Material: Preschool-level puzzles and blindfolds.

3. Flip it over – this is a classic work-together problem. In this game, 6 to 8 participants stand together on a blanket/towel/tarp. The challenge is to flip over the blanket or reverse it. The rule is that none of the participants can leave the blanket.

Benefit: Work together exercise

Duration: 30 minutes

Material: Blanket

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6. Team building survival games

Team building survival games helps to fine-tune problem solving scenarios that may occur at work. The activities encourage creative problem solving and decision making.

1. Stranded – Stranded helps in building effective communication. In this setting, the team is stranded in an office. The rooms will be locked, and doors and windows cannot be broken down. The team is asked to make a list of 10 items that they need to survive.

They need to rank items in the order of their importance. The team has to agree on the items and the order. Stranded is one of several popular survival team-building exercises.

Benefit: Team building and Decision-making exercises

• Your team is stuck inside the building. Doors are closed, so there is no option to kick down the doors or smash the windows.
• Grant the team 30 minutes to determine what ten things they need to thrive in the office and list them in order of importance.
• The goal of the game is to get everyone to agree in 30 minutes about the ten things and their ranking.

2. Minefield – you randomly place items around the room or hallway and there is no clear path from one end of the room to another. The team is divided into pairs. One team member is blindfolded, and the other team member is the guide.

The guide navigates the blindfolded person across the minefield. The two partners cannot touch. This survival team-building activity underlines the need for clear communication.

Benefits: Communication and collaborative problem solving

Duration: 10-15 minutes

Material: Blindfold, empty room or hallway, and collection of random items.

3. Frostbite – in this survival scenario team-building exercise the team is trapped in Siberia. Each team has to elect a team captain. The team has to build a storm shelter with the material provided.

The twist in the game is the team captains cannot help physically since they have frostbite. Other team members are suffering snow blindness and are blindfolded. The electric fan will be turned on in 30 minutes to see if the shelter built will survive the storm.

Benefit: Leadership, skills action plan, and team building survival games

Team size: 4 to 5 members

Material: An electric fan, blindfold, simple building materials like cardboard paper, rubber bands, toothpicks, masking tape, straws, sticky notes, etc.

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7. Group decision making games

Group decision making games help encourage creative problem solving and decision making at work. Here is a bunch of group decision making games

1. Reverse Pyramid – the team members stand in a pyramid shape. The next step is to flip the base and apex of the pyramid. The limiting factor in only three persons can move.

Benefits: Group Decision-making and collaboration

2. Tower of Hanoi – in this game, there are three towers/posts/rods with 5 or more discs arranged conical shape with the smallest shape at the top. The objective of the game is to move the entire stack to another location retaining the shape. Some conditions of the games are only one disc can be moved at a time. Only the top disc can be moved. Another rule of the game is larger disc cannot be put on a smaller disc.

Benefits: This team-building exercise helps problem solving within the participants.

3. Human Knot – the team stands in a circle every person holds hands with a person not standing next to them. When everyone is cross-connected, the aim is to untangle the structure without letting go of anybody’s hand.

Benefit: group problem solving

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8. Funny problem solving games

We need to solve problems for personal and professional lives. Funny problem solving exercises are a light way. Funny problem solving can help reduce stress levels.

1. Pencil drop – in the pencil drop challenge, one end of the pencil is tied to a pencil and the other is tied around the waist of a team member. The other team member puts the pencil into the bottle placed below. The participants are not allowed to use their hands.

Benefit: Team bonding

Team size: 2 members each

Material: Some pencil and bottle

2. Blind drawing – this game requires two players to sit back to back. One participant describes an image in front of them without giving stating anything obvious. The other participant needs to draw it using the description. The outcome can be fun.

3. Be the character – in this activity, you pretend to be an imaginary character while trying to solve a problem. This game gives a unique perspective on your solution and whether the solution is feasible for other members.

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9. Group problem solving activities for adults

Group problem solving activities are very efficient, especially for adults. These can be used in any setting to enhance problem solving skills. 

1. Human Knots

• Benefits: Communication skills, collaboration
• Time Duration: 10 – 15 minutes.

This is one of the most straightforward group problem solving activities that can be done with any group. It facilitates communication and critical thinking in the face of a challenging and complex question. Various group members will possibly suggest a variety of solutions, and each will need to be reviewed and adopted by the organization as a whole.

• Have the group stand in a small circle (make several circles when you are a larger group). Every person in the loop will hold the hands of 2 other people who are not directly next to them. That would make a messy crossed arms knot.
• Ask the group to disentangle themselves without moving their hands at any point in time. They may be unable to disentangle completely to form a circle again. Still, they would have begun to work together to solve the problem by the end of the activity.

2. Frostbite 

• Benefits: Leadership, decision-making, trust, adaptability
• Time Duration: 30 minutes.
• Materials Required: An electric fan, blindfold, simple building materials like cardboard paper, rubber bands, toothpicks, masking tape, straws, sticky notes, etc.

Your group is trapped in the barren deserts of Siberia, and a sudden winter storm is approaching. You have to create a shelter with only the materials in hand that can survive the storm’s harsh winds. The leader of your expedition was afflicted with frostbite in both hands, sadly, and all the others experience severe snow blindness.

• Divide the group into clusters of 4-5. Every group will have to elect a chief. 
• Group leaders are not allowed to use their hands to support the group in any way, and group members should be blindfolded during the exercise. 
• The groups have 30 minutes to build a small tent structure that can withstand the wind from the fan’s highest location. 

3. Dumbest Idea First

• Benefits: Critical thinking, creative problem solving, quick problem solving
• Time Duration: 15 – 20 minutes
• Materials Required: Pen or pencil, a piece of paper.

Dumbest Idea First is one of the most creative problem solving activities for groups. This can encourage your creativity by thinking out of the box and lead you to ideas that would typically sound too insane to work. You can broaden the possibilities by looking at these crazy solutions first, and find potential alternatives that might not be as obvious.

• Present your team with a question. It could be a real-world dilemma facing the group, or it could be a created scenario. For example, your company attempts to beat a rival to win a high-paying customer contract, but the customer bends to your competitors. You have a short period before they make the final decision to change their mind.
• With the given question, advise your group to come up with the dumbest ideas to tackle the issue. Anything can be written down. 
• After each person has put forward a few ideas, go through the list, and analyze each plan to see which are the most feasible. List them from the highest level of feasibility to the lowest level.  

4. Wool Web 

• Benefits: Leadership, communication
• Time Duration: 30 minutes
• Materials Required: Some balls of yarn.

As hard as replicating the magnitude of the real-world problems is, that is no excuse not to try! Wool web creates a dilemma that appears complicated at first, but groups will learn to break down complicated challenges into solvable problems one move at a time.

This happens by using the right strategy and working together. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most stimulating problem solving activities for adults.

• Split the group into similarly large teams. Every time, it receives a yarn ball. 
• Tell each team to turn the yarn ball into a vast web. Give them around 5-10 minutes to do this. When done, rotate all the teams so that every team is on a yarn web they have not set up. 
• Every group must choose one person to untangle the web. That individual would be blindfolded and be guided by the rest of the team on how to unwind the web using only verbal instructions. The first team to achieve it wins the game.

5. Tallest Tower 

• Benefits: Creative thinking, collaboration
• Materials Required: 1 bag of marshmallows, one packet of uncooked spaghetti.

Simple building projects can help group members create strategies to overcome box issues. Tallest Tower is another one of the most creative problem solving activities. Groups will compete with only two materials to make the tallest tower in a fixed period.

• Divide the group into two, which have an equal number of players. Provide 20 – 30 uncooked spaghetti noodles and 3-4 marshmallows to every team. 
• Groups must compete in the provided period to build the tallest tower using only the materials supplied. A marshmallow has to be set at the top of the tower.

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10. Problem solving activities for students

Below is a bunch of problem solving activities for students and kids,

1. Brainstorm Bonanza – Brainstorm Bonanza is one of the best problem solving activities for students. As a teacher, making your students create lists relevant to something you are teaching at the moment can be a fantastic way to help them expand their knowledge of a subject when learning to solve problems.

• Benefits: Problem solving
• Materials Required: Pen and paper

1. If you are discussing a real, current, or fictional occurrence that did not work out well, let your students imagine ways that the protagonist or participants might have produced a better, more favorable result.

2. They can brainstorm independently or in groups. 

2. Clue Me In – this is one of the most enjoyable problem solving games. It facilitates logical thinking and cognitive development.

• Benefits: Cognitive development, logical thinking
• Time Duration: 20 minutes
• Materials Required: A bag, clues, items as necessary
• Select a collection of things relating to a specific occupation, social phenomenon, historical incident, object, etc.
• Assemble individual objects (or pictures of things) commonly linked to the target response.
• Place all of them in a bag (five-10 clues ought to be enough).
• Then, have a student reach into the bag and take out clues one by one.
• Select a minimum number of clues to draw before they make their first guess (two-three).
• After that, the student should guess, pulling each clue until they think it is right.
• See how quickly the student can solve the riddle.

3. Survivor Scenario – Create a hypothetical situation that allows students to think creatively to make it through. One example may be being stuck on an island, realizing that three days of help would not come.

The community has a small amount of food and water and has to establish shelter from the island’s objects. This would undoubtedly be one of the fascinating problem solving activities for students.

• Benefits: Logical thinking, collaboration
• Encourage working together as a group.
• Listen to each student who has an idea about making it safe and secure across the three days.

4. Moral Dilemmas – Create several potential moral dilemmas that your students can face in life, write down, and place each object in a bowl or container. These things may include items like, “I’ve seen a good friend of mine shoplifting. What is it that I would do?” or “The cashier gave me an additional $1.50 in change after I purchased candy from the shop. What is it that I would do?”

• Benefits: Logical thinking
• Time Duration: 5 minutes per student
• Materials Required: Container, bits of paper with moral dilemmas written
• Ask every student to draw an item from the bag one after the other and read it aloud. 
• They must then tell the class the response on the spot as to how they would handle the situation.

5. Problem solving box – this is an activity that will help on both cognitive and emotional levels for students. 

• Benefits: Logical thinking, decision making
• Materials Required: Box, paper, pen
• Have your students design and decorate a medium-sized box with a top slot. Name it as the “Problem Solving Box.”
• Invite students to write down anonymously and apply any concerns or problems they may have at school or at home, which they do not appear to be able to work out on their own.
• Let a student draw one of the things from the box once or twice a week, and read it aloud.
• Finally, as a group, let the class work out the best way students can approach the problem and eventually solve it.

Also Read: Invest large in bitcoins – get a profitable deal from a bitcoin OTC broker now!

11. Problem solving activities for kids

Below is a bunch of problem solving activities for kids,

1. Puzzle-solving – Solving puzzles is one of the best problem solving activities for kids out there. Essentially, every puzzle is a big collection of muddled-up items to figure out and bring back together again.

Kids must be introduced to puzzles with regularity. These are useful for improving skills in reasoning. The best kinds to choose from are wooden puzzles with a wooden frame. They last long, and the structure serves as the foundation to direct children during construction. 

• Benefits: Reasoning skills
• Time Duration: Varies
• Materials Required: Puzzles according to the age level

Instructions: 

• Show the kids a demo of how a particular puzzle can be solved. 
• Then, let them choose a puzzle of their liking from the available choices. 
• Ask them to solve their chosen puzzles. 

2. Memory Games – Memory games will improve memory and attention to detail for your child. 

• Benefits: Attention to detail
• Materials Required: Matching pairs of images
• Using matching pairs of images and turn them all face down, shuffled, on a table.
• Take turns to pick any two cards, and face them on the table.
• You hold the cards if you turn over a similar pair, and if the pair does not match, turn the cards over before it is your turn to try again. 
• A teacher/parent must encourage the kids to concentrate on where the pictures are, and seek to find a matching pair on each turn.

3. Building games – Construction toys like building blocks, wooden blocks, or legos should be a staple in a kid’s home every day. Playing with them is one of the most fun problem solving activities for kids. Anything that your child builds is a challenge as it involves thinking about what to create and how to put together the parts to get a workable and usable design. 

• Benefits: Decision making
• Materials Required: Construction toys.

1. Let your child build a challenge openly and often, and ask him/her to build a particular structure, with conditions. For instance:

• Create two towers with a bridge that connects them.  
• Create a creature that stands alone and has three arms.

2. Observe how your child uses trial-and-error before finding a way to bring the idea into motion.

4. Tic-Tac-Toe – this is an excellent game for teaching decision-making skills. It encourages kids to think before they act and weigh the potential consequences. 

• Materials Required: Pencil, paper
• Draw a simple tic-tac-toe table on paper or chalkboard.
• Take turns to add a nought or a cross to the table to see who is the first to make a line of three.
• Your kid will likely catch on in no time before placing their symbol and start thinking carefully.
• Coloured counters or different items can be used to play this game as well.

5. Building a Maze – This activity is fun and fits for any age. It will also be a lot more enjoyable than doing a maze in an activity book, particularly for younger kids. 

• Materials Required: Chalk
• Draw a big maze with jumbo chalk on the paving. Make passages, including one or two, which end in an impasse. Teach your kid how to get out of it.  
• Make the maze more complicated and add more dead-end passages as your child gets better at figuring out a path and finding the way out.

Also Read: Developing a blockchain – hire an expert blockchain developer now!

What is a problem solving process?

When a team or person faces an issue or obstacle, it can be tempting to quickly track a potential solution and set up a fast fix. This could happen without understanding the complexity of the problem and pursuing a systematic approach to seeking a solution.

The attempts to address issues or obstacles may become unstructured and frustrating without a consistent method. End-to-end processes for problem solving offer a mechanism for a community to tackle any size or nature, and see results. Problem solving activities for adults, kids, and students can help make the problem solving process very useful.

Army problem solving process

There are 7 steps to problem solving army model,

• Recognize and define the problem – The first step army problem solving process is defining the problem precisely and determining the root cause.
• Gather facts and make assumptions – You need to gather all information you have at your disposal. Common resources for information may be documentation and policies. Assumptions are unsubstantiated facts. Use facts rather than assumptions when you need to analyze the scope of the problem.
• Generate alternatives – One of the key steps in military problem solving is finding ways to solve the problem. Ideally, it best to have multiple approaches to solve the problem. Take input from peers and subordinates if possible.
• Analyze possible solutions – Analyze each possible solution with advantages and disadvantages. You evaluate each solution according to screening and feasibility criteria. Reject the solution when it fails in the screening process.
• Compare Alternatives – Another crucial step in the army problem solving model is to evaluate alternatives for cost and benefits. You need to consider your experience and immediate future. Tabulating each solution with the pros and cons will help clear the picture.
• Make an executive your decision – Make a decision and prepare an action plan, and put it in motion.
• Assess the result – You need to monitor the implementation of the plan and modify it if required. Establishing critical steps and milestones will help to ensure success.

Army problem solving games

• Capture the flag – the game helps in team building and army problem solving. Two teams compete against one another to retrieve a flag or object from the opposing team camp base and get into their camp base. This game is flexible, and ground rules need to be set before the game starts.
• Paintball – Paintball is a fun military problem solving activity. You can have many modifications and variations of the paintball game. The aim is to fire paint pellets at the opposing team. Laser tag is another variation of the game.
• Firing blind – Firing blind is a game where each team has a large number of water balloons. At the other end of the field has to hit the target is protected by a tarp from direct firing. The team has to hit the target that is covered. One team member acts as the observer and directs the team to hit the target with the water balloons.

Also Read: Interested in NFT – find an expert NFT consultant now!

Obstacles to problem solving

Problem solving can take time and patience, one of the best ways to solve any problem is pausing and evaluating the problem. Obstacles to problem solving are,

• Misdiagnosis – Misdiagnosis is a common problem can occur due to preconceived idea, biases or judgments. Defining and having a concrete understanding of the problem is the first step in the problem solving activity. This can be difficult. If you are not careful, you may spend your time and resources solving the wrong problem and finding the wrong solution.
• Communication bias – Communication barriers are caused when we are unable to explain the problem to the team, or presuming we know more than everyone else. Everyone on the team must be on the same page. You may need to acknowledge you have a limited understanding of the problem.
• Solution bias – A common obstacle in problem solving is thinking there may be a universal solution or thinking the same solution can solve multiple problems. You need to evaluate a problem independently than try to force-fit a solution that worked previously.
• Cognitive bias – One of the barriers to finding an effective solution is cognitive bias, or the tendency to jump to conclusions. To find solutions fast firms often end up with an irrelevant solution. This may cause more problems down the line.
• Lack of empathy – Every problem is associated with human emotions or abilities. It is important to identify and recognize people affected by the problem or it will be difficult to find a solution that will solve help.

Also Read: Developing an NFT – hire an expert NFT developer now!

Famous virtual problem solving software

Traditionally watercoolers chat is a great way to bring people together and help team members interact with one another. A virtual water cooler has a similar concept where people interact in a similar virtual setting or a dedicated virtual room. It allows remote teams to bond. Software that offers virtual water coolers services,

• unremot.com – provides users with a unique water cooler experience. The app provides unique solutions to remote teams.
• Microsoft Teams
• Informal Whatsapp group
• Donut over slack channels

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Top 15 Problem Solving Activities for Kids [2022 List]

As they get older, children have countless opportunities to learn about the world. They do, however, face issues daily, whether it be peer pressure, complex mathematical computations, or arguments with their peers.

The advantages of problem-solving abilities for children are vast, and they may help them deal with such circumstances efficiently.  

They will learn to develop practical answers on their own, without the assistance of an adult. Furthermore, when faced with challenges, students will be more confident in their abilities to use problem-solving skills and generate unique solutions on their own.  

Read on to learn about the importance of problem-solving abilities in children, how to install this talent in them, and some activities to help them develop this important skill.  

Table of contents

• The Importance of Problem Solving Skills in Children  
• How to Teach Children Problem-Solving Skills? 
• 15 Problem Solving Activities for Kids  

The Importance of Problem Solving Skills in Children  

Children gain from problem-solving in a variety of ways. It is beneficial to them.  

• Deal with problems in regular life.  
• Make sound judgments.  
• Along the way, learn additional skills including teamwork, critical thinking, and collaboration.  
• Problems should be solved without being broken down.  
• Consider thinking beyond the box.  
• Develop your independence.  

How to Teach Children Problem-Solving Skills?  

Here are a few ideas for encouraging your child to use their problem-solving abilities.  

• Put it to the Test!  

Encourage your youngster to accept the challenge when they are confronted with a problem. If the outcomes are unsuccessful, they might try different strategies.

Your child will be able to think about a subject from several angles as a result. 

• Seek Counsel  

Decision-making is a tough task. For example, you could have difficulty deciding what to prepare for supper or what to wear to the movies. Asking your children for assistance in decisions is an excellent choice.

When you approach them for guidance, they believe that they are not alone in their struggles. When you appreciate their ideas, they will gain the confidence to tackle challenges on their own.  

• Take a Long, Deep Breath.  

Maintaining your calm in difficult situations is one of the first steps toward effective problem-solving. Even among children, when their emotions run wild, it is difficult to think sensibly, and the temptation to make rash judgments increases.

It is critical to encourage your youngster to take deep breaths whenever they feel out of control of their emotions. They can better appraise the problem once they are calm.  

• State the Issue Verbally.  

Your child should openly express how they feel and what they are going through when they have calmed down. It provides them with a distinct perspective and facilitates the generation of alternate solutions. 

• Do not give “The Solution”  

It is not a good idea to provide immediate solutions to children’s problems. Instead, provide them with advice to assist them in solving the problem on their own. This will help them to think about solutions that are beneficial to them.

• Set a Good Example  

Children quickly absorb knowledge like sponges. Therefore, when you approach an issue and find a workable solution, children will be inspired by your strategy and want to follow you. 

• Allow the Natural Consequences to Play out.  

Allowing a situation to take its course is sometimes the best approach to dealing with it. So, if your child encounters a challenge, let them be.

Assume your child spent their entire weekly allowance in a day or two; allow them to go the entire week without receiving any money. This will position them to make better decisions in the future. 

15 Problem Solving Activities for Kids  

There is no better way to learn than by playing. The following exercises are enjoyable and challenge youngsters to demonstrate their problem-solving abilities.  

• Riddles  

Riddles for kids are fantastic games for problem-solving. They come at various levels of difficulty. The appropriate one may be chosen based on your child’s age.

If you give children a puzzle, they will learn to consider the issue or question, generate potential answers, and select one.

Additionally, the practice will help students improve their hand-eye coordination, gross motor skills, and critical thinking. Also, if your kids have a way with words then what better than to engage them in wordle for kids !

• Scavenger Quest  

Scavenger hunts are an instructive activity that every parent should offer to their children. It is a low-cost, easy, and entertaining activity that can be practiced both inside and outside and just requires materials you already have at home.

The activity encourages youngsters to think beyond the box. They are pleasantly acquiring problem-solving skills without even realizing it.  

• Storybooks  

The advantages of reading are countless. Problem-solving is one of them. While reading, children are introduced to several characters and their roles. They frequently connect with these figures. Undoubtedly, stories for kids are great resources to stimulate their minds!

So, if kids encounter an issue, ask them how their favourite character would solve it. Encourage them to produce as many options as they can and discuss the results of each.  

• Arts and Crafts  

Another fantastic technique to educate youngsters about problem-solving abilities is via arts and crafts. Give your child a variety of things from around the house. Allow them to create fantastic creations or repair damaged devices or toys. Also checkout art hub for kids that can provide an immersive experience to your little ones!

Give them complete freedom to do their task and only offer guidance when they are running out of ideas. And if your kids like to be more hands-on then check out crafts for kids !  

• Free-Form Questions  

Asking open-ended questions is an excellent method to help your child think creatively and critically and develop their problem-solving abilities.

As there are no right or wrong answers to these questions, and the answer extends beyond a simple “no” or “yes,” they must give some consideration to their responses.

The questions mentioned in the image above are some examples of open-ended questions.  

• Maze  

Mazes are enjoyable and safe for people of all ages. Working on mazes forces them to think. The practice also helps them strengthen their motor skills, observation skills, sense of direction, and problem-solving abilities.

Think beyond book mazes. There are other maze games available on the internet. They will get better at finding their way out with practice. You may eventually give them increasingly difficult mazes to solve.  

• A Little Treasure Quest  

The whole family can enjoy a treasure hunt. If they believe they will succeed, you can maintain their concentration on the task at hand.

Give them tips that encourage them to use their imaginations and resolve issues to win the prize.  

• Toy Construction  

Give your kids building materials like LEGO, wood blocks, engineering blocks, etc., and let them construct anything they want.

Toy construction requires your child to consider what to make, how to assemble the parts, and produce creative solutions to make sure the design is functional.

You can occasionally ask them to build something challenging, like a monster with three arms or two buildings joined by a bridge. Watch as they struggle to come up with a structure. 

• Woollen Web  

Each child should be given a piece of colorful yarn, and they should be told to construct a circle. The yarn ball is passed from one person to the next by wrapping their finger around it.

Once everyone got an opportunity to hold the ball and wrap the yarn around their finger, a web would begin to grow. Now, blindfold one person and instruct them to unwind the web by following the vocal directions of the others.

To figure out a way out, this group exercise requires collaboration, attention, patience, coordination, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. 

• The Human Knot  

It is a simple game, but very entertaining. A group of youngsters is required for this game. Form a circle with the youngsters and have them raise their hands.

Begin with one player, who must use their right hand to grasp a player’s hand from across the circle and their left hand to grasp someone else’s hand. Examine whether everyone has held both hands with various players.

They must now detangle themselves without breaking the circle. When everyone’s hands are free and they are back in the circle, the challenge is over.  

• Improvised Skits  

Form teams out of the players. On pieces of paper, write out several scenarios, such as coping with bullying at school or resolving a quarrel between siblings, folding them, and arranging them in a bowl.

Each team or participant chooses a chit and executes the scenario. You may give them a deadline to get ready. These impromptu activities help kids see a problem, come up with a solution, and implement it. 

• Group Drawing  

Another excellent team-building activity for developing children’s problem-solving skills is group sketching. Form groups of three youngsters.

Each of the team’s three members has a certain function to play. The teacher comes next. The instructor is the one who offers the drawer verbal directions on how to draw a certain design.

The spectator examines the design. However, they are not permitted to speak and must interact with the instructor by using gestures. When the viewer is happy with the drawer’s image, you have a winner. Allow the kids to take turns playing various parts.  

• Give me a Hint!  

Clue Me In is an entertaining detective game that promotes cognitive growth, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Begin by choosing five to six target responses, such as a prominent figure, an animal, a historical event, a societal trend, or a career. Collect five to ten objects related to each goal answer. They might also be images from the Internet.

Sort them into various bags. Determine how many hints a child can select before making a guess. If there are two, let the youngster choose two clues from a bag and make their first guess. See who can respond the fastest.  

• Survivor Case Studies  

Here is another game where no items are required. In this game, you must construct pretend-play scenarios for youngsters to solve, and they must analyze and think creatively to do so.

For example, tell them, “You’re stranded on an island, and you know aid won’t arrive for two days” or “How will you build a shelter for yourself out of the materials around you?”

Kids are encouraged by this to think of many scenarios and come up with solutions to the problem. There are many programs for kids .

• Ethical Quandary  

Children are frequently put in challenging circumstances. This simple game will help children deal with these situations without them even being aware of them.

Write down several difficulties on pieces of paper, such as “The cashier handed me $1 more in change; what should I do?” or “I watched my friend harassing someone at school.” Should I intervene or let them go? Fold it up and put it in a bowl.

Give each child the opportunity to select one piece of paper, read it aloud, and provide creative solutions to the problem at hand. 

Are you interested to know more about kids coding languages ? Checkout here!

Problem-solving is a crucial skill to have. Guiding kids in this decision-making skill not only enhances their thinking and creative ability but also trains them to face problems in the future and figure out good decisions.

The above-mentioned activities for kids are some of those, that will help them develop decision-making skills.

To learn more about problem-solving activities for kids, check out the fun yet amazing articles on the BrightCHAMPS blog.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Children are believed to have learned the basics of problem-solving by the age of three. However, it is not perfected since it is hampered by a short attention span and trouble grasping problems on its own. Children grow better at solving problems as they get older.

The three most prevalent problem-solving techniques are:   ● Trial and error: trying several solutions to an issue until it is solved.   ● Algorithm: The process of solving a problem by following a step-by-step formula.   ● Following a problem-solving framework, such as breaking it down into steps, is a heuristic. 

These games can help you improve your problem-solving, planning, multitasking, and pattern-identification skills.   ● Crossword puzzles.   ● Sudoku puzzles.   ● Jigsaw puzzles.   ● Chess. Board games.   ● Computer games.   ● List games.

Creative problem-solving is a technique that employs imagination and invention. This technique encourages the creative aspect of issue resolution and allows for the generation of fresh ideas in novel ways. It also makes the process more enjoyable and fosters teamwork. To get your hands on more educational and free resources on  coding for kids , robotics for kids, financial education for kids , etc., do check out the  BrightCHAMPS  Page now!

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Khan Academy Blog

Free Activities Help Kids Learn About Feelings and Emotions

posted on August 6, 2024

Emotions are a big part of daily life. As parents and teachers guide kids in their development, emotional health is equally as important as physical health. Building emotional fortitude is an important foundation for self-regulation, problem-solving, and maintaining relationships ( PennState Extension ). Develop strong foundations by using our free emotion wheel and interactive lessons.

Help kids understand what they’re feeling

An important step is helping kids learn to identify and recognize their emotions. Khan Academy Kids is here to help with exactly that. We have a free emotion wheel worksheet to help kids identify feelings. We also have lessons in our free mobile app to help kids learn about emotions in an age-appropriate way.

Read on to get our free emotional wheel worksheet and to see a preview of new lessons coming to Khan Academy Kids.

Print emotion wheel

Download and print our free printables about emotions. Start with the worksheets featuring Reya the red panda from Khan Academy Kids. Cut out the images of Reya, and then match each image on the emotion wheel with how Reya is feeling.

New lessons about BIG feelings

Khan Academy Kids is here to make the back-to-school season a little easier with a set of lessons all about emotions. Help kids learn about big feelings like happiness, sadness, and everything in between. The new lessons are designed for preschool through 2nd grade and cover emotions like disappointment, embarrassment, anger, boredom, and more.

Our new lessons are aligned with national education standards, each with an introductory video and accompanying activities. The curriculum highlights human characters from the stories and books in Khan Academy Kids. Seeing these vibrant animated characters experience BIG emotions is a fun way to help kids understand what they feel in real life.

See what’s inside Khan Academy Kids

This September, open Khan Academy Kids to see the new lessons in the app’s Library. Find them by tapping the purple book on the app’s home screen, and then going to “Learn about Emotions” in the Logic+ tab. Preschool and kindergarteners will learn lessons about being mad, bored, silly, happy, and sad. First and second-graders will learn lessons about being frustrated, disappointed, nervous, excited, proud, scared, and more.  

We can’t wait to hear what you think! Reach out to us at [email protected] with any questions or suggestions about our free educational app and programs. 

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45 Fun Classroom Games for Kids

August 5, 2024

Need some rainy-day inspiration? Or, maybe you need to calm your students’ nerves before an exam, or re-energize them for the final stretch of the day. In any case, we’ve got you covered with 45 fun classroom games for kids, both fast and slow. Continue reading for more.

Indoor Recess or Rainy-day Games

1) rule game.

  In this game, one student stands in the hall while those in the classroom come up with a “rule” for that student to guess, involving yes and no answers to a question. For example, the rule could be “only people wearing red say yes,” or “those with glasses say yes.” When the student walks back into the room, they ask questions such as “do you like ice cream?” or “do you have a dog?” This student then tries to guess the rule based on who answers says yes and no to these questions.

2) What changed?

  Send one student out into the hallway, and the other students must change something in the classroom for the hallway student to notice and guess. For instance, they might open the windows, erase the chalkboard, or flip a chair upside down.

Fun Classroom Games for Kids (Continued)

3) hot potato.

  For this recess classic, students pass around a ball or stuffed animal. Play some music as they pass this “potato,” and when the music stops, they stop. Whoever is holding the ball when the music stops must answer a question.

4) Break out the board games

  Divide the classroom into sections in which students can move around to play different well-known board games (or board game equivalents), such as checkers, chess, scrabble, or Bananagrams . Have students rotate as you see fit. Those not playing themselves can draw or cheer on their friends.

5) Make your own board games

  To combine board games with art (as well as critical thinking and problem-solving skill development), have your students design their own board games in small groups using classroom materials. They can teach others their games, and favorites can be saved for later rainy days

6) Human knot

  Have your students stand in a circle and hold hands, before they tangle the circle into a messy clump, or “knot,” still holding hands. Then, try to reverse and make it back to the circle from before.

7)  Balloon volleyball

For a safe way to get your students moving even though they can’t go outside, push the desks aside and see how long the balloon (or 2, 3, or 4 balloons) can stay in the air. This can also be done with students seated at their desks for a calmer activity with less setup.

8)  Tunnel ball

This game teaches coordination and collaboration. Student teams line up and pass a ball through their legs and then the last person to receive it walks quickly to the front of the line. The team with the most rounds completed in 5 minutes wins.

9) Card games :

Similar to board games (but taking up less space) pull out some kid-friendly card games and set them up around the classroom. Some great examples include Go Fish, War, Memory, and Uno.

Educational Games

10) stop the bus.

  Write 4 different categories on the board, such as “animals,” “colors,” “cities,” and “foods.” In pairs or teams, students copy these categories onto paper. The teacher says a letter and all the students must fill in each category with that letter. For example, if the teacher says “B,” the students might write “beaver,” “blue,” “Baltimore,” and “banana.” Whichever team finishes their categories first calls out, “Stop the bus!” and the rest of the class must stop writing. Teams earn points depending on how many words they write. This is a great vocabulary development game, and it’s commonly used by ESL teachers.

11) Review bingo

  Draw a 5×4 grid on the board (or larger, depending on how much time you have). Ask students to open their textbooks to the current unit and help to fill the squares with words relevant to the unit. As they tell you the words, put one in each square of the grid. Then, have them draw their own grid and write each of the words, but in a different order. Then, play bingo by randomly calling out words for your students. As a challenge for older students, you can also give hints instead of naming the word itself.

12) Memorizing objects

  For a great way to introduce a science unit, place 10 objects on a table and ask students to observe and memorize them for 1 minute. Afterward, cover certain objects and ask students to recall details about them and guess their purpose. This activity also be done with images on a projector.

13) Jeopardy!

  Review lessons in any subject through a fun game of Jeopardy!, in which points are earned depending on difficulty. You can create your game using a number of different online jeopardy creators and project them for the class. This is a great way to prepare for a test while emphasizing teamwork.

14) Fizz buzz

  With a goal number in mind (say 50), students go around the room to count to that number. However, if a number is a certain multiple of 5, students must say “buzz.” If it’s a multiple of 7, they must say “fizz.” So, counting would go something like: 1, 2, 3, 4, buzz, 6, fizz, 8, 9, buzz, 11, 12, 13, fizz, buzz, 16…. etc. When someone messes up, the counting restarts.

15) Replace the number

  For a related focused counting game, have students replace different numbers with different words or sounds. As the game continues, more numbers become replaced and they become more difficult to remember. By the end of the game, the counting might sound like “rabbit, 2, BOOM, hisssssss, 5, 6, apple, penguin, Batman, ahhhhh, 11…” (and so on).

16) Pass the object

  Students pass a soft object (such as a stuffed animal or squishy ball) in small groups, each answering a question before passing it to another student for the next one. If each member of a group answers a question correctly, the group earns a point for the round. This game is perfect for quick math practice or science/history trivia.

17) Invent a solution

  Announce a problem that students can solve using only 3 provided objects. The problem can range from saving the world from a giant monster to retrieving a book from the top shelf at the library. Each group has 5 minutes to figure out a solution (funny or realistic) and present it to the class.

18) Flashcard duel

  Students each have a set of flash cards. In pairs, they show each other the cards one at a time. If right, the student keeps the card. If wrong, their partner keeps the card. The “duel” continues until the cards have all been used.

Quick classroom games

 19) human tic-tac-toe.

Using simple masking tape, create a giant tic-tac-toe board on the floor of the classroom and have students wearing different colors be stand-ins for X’s and O’s.

20) 20 questions

  This one might already be familiar to many of your students. It can be played as a whole class or in small groups. One student (or the teacher) comes up with a word (animal, vegetable, or mineral), and others must guess the word by asking “yes or no” questions.

21) Freeze-danc e break

  For a fun and quick pause in class, choose a great song, turn it on, and have everyone start dancing. When you pause the music, the students must freeze. Those who keep moving are eliminated.

  Divide your students into groups and get a timer ready. Name a category, and in a minute or less, ask your students to write 5 things in that category. Categories can be as simple as fruits/colors/countries, or as complicated as vocabulary words for a unit of study. To make the exercise more difficult, ask for more than 5 words. Each group that succeeds earns a point.

23) Duck-duck-goose

  Perfect for your younger students, students sit in a circle as one student “tapper” goes around and taps the others’ shoulders, saying “duck, duck, duck duck…” Eventually, this student says “goose!” and the sitting student must chase the tapper around the circle as the tapper rushes to take this student’s spot before being tagged. If they sit down in time, the tapped student becomes the tapper.

24) Fix-it relay

  In groups of 4 to 6, have your students solve sentences with errors (either grammatical or factual). The first student in each line chooses a card and fixes its mistake (or mistakes), and then passes it to the next student to check for more errors. When each student on the team has checked the card, one team member runs it up to the front desk to complete the relay. This can be done with as many cards as you have time for.

25) Word scramble

  Each student or group has an assigned word, and they must pull as many other words out of it as possible within a time limit.

26) “Snowman”

  The leader draws a spot for a “snowman” (a less violent form of the classic “hangman” game) and adds spaces for letters of a particular word or phrase. Students guess letters and words, and whoever correctly guesses the word or phrase wins. However, for each wrong answer, a body part is added to the snowman. If the snowman is completed before the word/phrase is guessed, the leader wins. This take on a classic game is perfect for using extra time at the end of class while reviewing words relevant to your curriculum.

27) Odd one out

Prepare sets of words or phrases written on pieces of paper. Students work in pairs or small groups to categorize the words/phrases as they relate to one another, eventually finding the “odd one out” (the word/phrase that doesn’t relate to the others). Categories can range depending on subject and grade level, from U.S. presidents, to chemical elements, to parts of speech, to colors or animals.

Games to calm or focus the class

28) counting the class.

  This counting game requires a bit of patience, so it can be useful for refocusing the class. The goal is to count to 20, or however many students are in your class. Your students begin standing, and without indicating who should go first, a student says “1” and sits down. Another says “2” and sits down. It goes like this, counting without knowing who will go next. As the numbers become higher, it usually becomes more difficult for students to speak one at a time.

29) Mad Libs

For a calm and humorous partner activity, put students in pairs or small groups to fill out Mad Libs. Have them present the Mad Lib stories to the class at the end of the activity.

  This popular internet game is great for completing as a class, and can also be a perfect daily brain warm-up for small groups. While the New York Times Wordle is the most popular, the exercise can also be customized with your own words to fit lesson plans.

31) Silent ball

  In a circle, students pass a ball back and forth without saying a single word while a timer runs. If a student talks or drops the ball, they are out. The winners are those still standing when the timer goes off.

32) Create a sculpture

  For a class collaboration, have students take turns adding objects to a class sculpture in whatever way they find most beautiful or interesting. This can also be done in small groups.

33) Collaborative drawing

  Students sit in a circle and draw quietly on their own pieces of paper for 30 seconds. When the timer goes off, they pass their papers clockwise, for another student to draw on the same page for 30 seconds. This continues until each artwork returns to its original owner. Display these works of art at the end of class for others to admire.

34) Story sharing

  Use free time to help students connect with each other through stories. Give a prompt for a personal anecdote (for example, “describe a time you learned something new,” or, “tell a story about overcoming a challenge”). Have students pass around a ball of yarn, telling their stories and taking hold of a piece of the string as they pass it to the next storyteller.

35) Secret leader

  Choose a student (the investigator) to leave the classroom and another student (the secret leader) to coordinate the other students in actions like clapping, chanting, or mimicking movement, which can change about every 30 seconds. The investigator enters into the classroom and uses reasoning skills to determine who the secret leader is.

36) Secret hand tap

  3 students are chosen to go around the class and lightly tap 1-2 of their classmate’s hands, as the others close their eyes with hands on desks. Afterwards, those with their hands tapped guess who tapped their hands. They switch roles if their answers are correct.

Games to energize the class

37) back to the board.

  Write some vocabulary words on the board and split students into teams. A student from each team comes up and faces their back to the board, and you circle one of the words. Without using the word itself, each team tries to get their representative to guess which word you’ve circled. Whoever guesses first earns their team a point. This game can become more active (and quieter) if each team is only allowed to use gestures to help their representative guess the word.

38) Apple pie

One student comes to the front of the class and faces their back to the other students. One at a time, the students say “apple pie” and the student at the front tries to guess who spoke. Students can try to trick the guesser by moving around and changing voices. This game often involves a fair amount of laughter, so it’s great for waking up a sleepy class.

39) Speed Mad Libs

  If you need an energizing and quick break in-class activities, try Mad Libs but this time, at a rapid pace. Project a Mad Lib on the screen and quickly go around the room asking students to choose adjectives, nouns, colors, etc. with only 5 seconds to say each word. Read the result as a class for a nice laugh.

40) Zip zap zoom

  For another classic game that’s sure to wake up your students, try zip zap zoom. In a circle, students pass around an imaginary “ball” of energy. They say “zip” when passing it clockwise, “zap” when passing it counterclockwise, and “zoom” to send it to someone across the circle. Students try not the ones holding the ball of energy when the 2-minute timer goes off.

41) Musical chairs

  For this classic game, line up some chairs back-to-back, several fewer than the number of students in your class. Put on some great tunes, and have them scramble for a chair when the music stops. Each round, eliminate 1 or 2 chairs, until there’s only 1 chair left and 2 students.

42) Four corners

  This game is perfect if you want to get your students moving, and if you have a fair amount of space in your classroom. Teachers assign names to each of the four corners of the classroom, and students have 20 seconds to choose which corner to stand in. Pick out of a hat to announce one of the four corners. The students standing in the corner you call are eliminated until the next round. The last student standing wins.

43) Who am I?

  Each student gets a card taped to their forehead with the name of a topic, historical figure, or book character written on it. The students circulate to ask questions and try to figure out who/what is taped to them.

44) Pictionary

  Create cards naming class topics that students can visualize, ranging from historical events, to vocabulary words, to science concepts. In small groups, one student chooses a card and works to draw an image that the other team members use to guess the word. For an extra challenge, add a timer. For more assistance, allow them to include a letter or two in the drawing.

45)  Minute-to-win-it  

For an energizing break, have students compete in small tasks that can be completed in under a minute. Common minute-to-win-it exercises include stacking cups, transferring small objects with chopsticks, and passing a balloon around a circle without using hands.

Fun Classroom Games for Kids – Further Reading

As you can see from this list, classroom games can be quite versatile. Teachers can use them for a range of purposes, from reviewing class material, to developing collaboration skills, to waking students up, to calming them down. For more classroom resources, we recommend the following blog articles:

• 124 Good Icebreaker Questions for Students/Adults
• 141 Fun, Weird, & Interesting Facts—2024
• 60 Easy Science Experiments for Kids
• Best Teacher Intro Letter to Parents—with Examples
• 30 Writing Activities for Preschoolers and Kindergarten
• 55 Best Short Stories for Kids and Middle Schoolers
• 60 Team-Building Activities for Kids & Middle/High School Students
• Teacher Tools

Sarah Mininsohn

With a BA from Wesleyan University and an MFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Sarah is a writer, educator, and artist. She served as a graduate instructor at the University of Illinois, a tutor at St Peter’s School in Philadelphia, and an academic writing tutor and thesis mentor at Wesleyan’s Writing Workshop.

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Home > ETD > Doctoral > 5866

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Exploring student perceptions of problem-based learning and clinical field experiences: a phenomenological study.

Ashley Michelle Boles , Liberty University Follow

School of Education

Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD)

Mary Strickland

problem-based learning, medical education, higher-order thinking and processing, critical thinking, clinical reasoning, problem-solving, clinical field experiences

Disciplines

Education | Medicine and Health Sciences

Recommended Citation

Boles, Ashley Michelle, "Exploring Student Perceptions of Problem-Based Learning and Clinical Field Experiences: A Phenomenological Study" (2024). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects . 5866. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/5866

The purpose of this phenomenological study is to understand the experiences of participating in a physical therapy course primarily taught using problem-based learning teaching methods for Doctor of Physical Therapy students at a university in the mid-western United States. This study aimed to understand student perception of PBL and its effects on clinical field experiences (CFEs), specifically related to higher-order processing skills. The theory guiding this study was the social constructivism theory as it explains how knowledge acquisition and learning occurs through social interactions during problem-based learning activities. The central research question this study attempted to answer was: What were the experiences of DPT students who participate in a PBL education? This study design was a qualitative, hermeneutic phenomenological study. Convenience sampling was done from a pool of DPT students at a university in the midwestern United States. Data collection methods included journal prompts, individual interviews, and focus groups. Data analysis was based on van Manen’s data analysis methods. Findings reveal DPT students preferred PBL over traditional teaching methods and felt the use of PBL improved their higher-order thinking and processing skills. Participants felt that PBL teaching methods were conducive to their learning as the method allowed for real-time feedback and a perception of better content retention. DPT students also felt that using PBL teaching methods improved their ability to prioritize and funnel information to organize information in a way conducive to developing a solution to the problem. Participants felt that the problem-solving, critical thinking, and clinical reasoning they developed during the therapeutic exercise course did carry over into their ability to apply these higher-order thinking and processing skills during CFEs.

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How Should You Decide What To Do After Graduating College?

Whether you’re in your first year of college or a month or two from graduation, the question of what to do after you leave school can seem daunting. A whole world of options could arise to explore, but the immense freedom of choice may leave you unsure of which path to take. What should you do after college graduation to maximize the opportunities ahead? 

Some new graduates may already have their next moves mapped out, having lined up a graduate school placement or a full-time job while in school. However, you don’t necessarily need to worry if you haven’t decided what to do next. The period after graduation can offer the opportunity to explore various career options and reflect on what you want from life. Below are multiple routes you can take after graduation, as well as their pros and cons.

Take time to travel or try a gap year

Some recent graduates take the period immediately after college as an opportunity to travel. For some, other opportunities and the freedom to explore the world can seem fleeting. Whether someone takes a month or two abroad or a full-on gap year, visiting new places can expand their view of life, increase their understanding of other cultures, and provide a sense of resilience, independence, and confidence. 

A potential disadvantage of taking time off is delaying your entry into the workforce. However, employers may recognize that traveling, networking, or other gap year activities can provide valuable life experiences that may enrich an organization. You may also be able to find work opportunities while you travel, such as teaching English at language schools in your destination countries. Regardless, people can graduate college at any age and find a job at any phase in life. 

Look for work 

Seeking employment immediately after graduation could be a logical step for some college graduates. Given that the job market for bachelor’s degree holders has been tougher in recent years , getting a jump on the search may be helpful. Even if you’re not able to find immediate employment, you may gain valuable experience with job prospecting, helping you refine your strategy for seeking work. 

If you don’t land your dream job right away, try not to get discouraged. Even a position that has little to do with what you scheduled in school may be an opportunity to build new skills and demonstrate qualities that employers value, such as:

• Task management
• Big-picture thinking
• Problem-solving ability
• Initiative and leadership 

Some experts advise finding work that aligns with your degree or desired career path. If your first job doesn’t provide at least some of the core skills you’ll need in your chosen field, you may risk being overlooked by recruiters and application review algorithms if you transition careers. 

Pursue an internship to gain experience toward your dream job

Another option for entering the workforce after school is to find an internship related to your desired career. Working as an intern can be one of the most straightforward ways to gain experience directly relevant to your long-term goals while networking with other professionals in your field. 

A potential drawback of an internship is that you may be working for little or no money. The financial challenge can make justifying this option difficult for some people, especially those who don’t have savings or financial support from family members. If you can make an internship work, though, data from LinkedIn suggests this option can significantly increase your odds of securing a full-time job in your field within six months.

Apply to graduate schools for college graduates seeking a master’s degree

If you know that your long-term ambitions could require a graduate-level education, you might choose to begin the application process immediately after your undergraduate years come to a close. Your contacts with the professors whose recommendations you need will be up to date, and you may have a sense of momentum after completing your bachelor’s degree. In addition, the sooner you complete grad school, the sooner you can take advantage of the higher earnings potential offered by a master’s degree.

Some may be hesitant to enter graduate school right away since the option often involves taking on additional debt. On the other hand, graduate programs typically provide leeway in spacing out your credit hours, so you may be able to work while pursuing your degree on the side. Some companies may offer to pay for your schooling as a perk of signing an employment contract. 

Rather than looking for a job or an internship, some new graduates try to find volunteer opportunities. Volunteering for a cause that’s meaningful to you can be a rewarding, fulfilling experience. This option may also help you acquire job skills and contacts, increasing your long-term employability , particularly if you’re considering a career in the non-profit sector or public service. 

Looking for volunteer opportunities abroad can also be a low-cost way to travel after college, and it offers some of the same personal benefits as a gap year. If this idea interests you, you may consider checking out programs like the Peace Corps.

Start your own business

Entrepreneurship can be another viable option after graduating, especially if you’ve gained relevant technical or business skills in school. Starting and running your own company can be a powerful learning experience, and if all goes well, you may wind up with a thriving business that you own outright. 

While launching your own company can be immensely rewarding, this option carries risks. The process can require hard work, success is far from guaranteed, and former entrepreneurs who return to the job market may have a more challenging time appealing to recruiters . As such, some graduates may prefer the stability of a job or an internship. 

How to choose what you’ll do after graduation

With so many possible paths to follow after graduating, how can you choose which way to go? No one else can decide for you, but keeping some of the following considerations in mind may help.

In what career sector are you hoping to work?

Some post-graduate options described above may be better suited to particular career paths. For instance, a master’s degree could make more sense for college graduates intending to work in academia or a technical field like engineering or biotechnology. Volunteer positions or internships may position you well for a government or non-profit career. Considering what post-graduation choices will get you closer to your dream job could be helpful in this process. 

What problem-solving advice do your mentors have for you?

When considering what to do after graduating, get input from those with more experience. Consider talking to people like your academic advisor, previous professors you admire, and family members or friends with experience in your field to get their thoughts. You could also talk to experts in the field online through forums or groups. 

How can you grow your professional network?

According to the Harvard Business Review, networking can be among the most significant factors for career success. Can you find something to do after college that offers lots of opportunities to connect with others in your desired field? Consider adding connections on LinkedIn and talking to people in social media groups with similar professional aspirations. 

What is your financial situation?

Do you have the financial stability to afford a gap year or an unpaid internship? Do you have student loans that could be forgiven if you take on a public service position? Questions like these can help you decide if you will enter the workforce immediately or take time to gain life experience.

Do you need a specialized license?

Some life paths may require specialized postgraduate education or training to gain specific credentials. If you need a teacher certification, a license to perform therapy, a medical technician certification, or a similar credential, consider working toward this licensure right away. Some licenses may require practicums, supervised hours, and residencies so that they may take extra time outside of schooling. 

What do you value most in life?

Some of the discussion of post-college activities focuses on how to position yourself for career success, but there’s more to life than work. Graduates who strongly value service to others might be happier taking some time to volunteer, even if they could make more money elsewhere. Those who greatly enjoy problem-solving and learning new skills might want to head for the workforce immediately. Someone who places a premium on independence and personal growth could be better off facing the challenges of entrepreneurship or the adventure of international travel.

Resources for college students preparing for graduation

There are many informational and mentoring resources from which you can draw when trying to decide on your trajectory after college, including but not limited to the following: 

• Academic advising: Your advisor may often offer suggestions for what to do after graduating, and they may be able to write you a letter of recommendation or connect you with professional contacts.
• Career counselors: Your school's administrative team may include dedicated career advice providers. 
• Alumni networks: Colleges often maintain an association or network that allows former students to connect with one another. Contacting alumni can be a way to get an experienced perspective on your post-graduation options.
• Career centers: Schools may offer offices where students and alumni can meet to discuss career interests and attend events that provide information about particular fields. 
• Non-profits and professional associations: In addition to your school's resources, organizations like the National Postdoctoral Association or ImaginePhD can offer information and guidance for college graduates. 

Mental health education resources for graduates

The pressure of planning your career and transitioning away from the familiar college environment can affect your well-being. For this reason, some people may experience mental health challenges like depression and excessive substance use during this period. If you’re preparing for graduation and feeling mentally unwell, taking advantage of your school’s behavioral health services may be helpful. You could also find help through online resources like the American Psychological Association (APA) or the American Depression and Anxiety Association (ADAA). 

Finding a therapist 

Students and recent graduates are often busy with daily life and financial obligations. During a transitionary period, finding an in-person therapist might be put on the back burner. In these cases, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp may be more accessible. 

Because you can access treatment from anywhere with an Internet connection, you may be better able to maintain continuity of care if you relocate or travel. In addition, online platforms can allow you to connect through weekly support groups on various topics. A 2017 meta-analysis concluded that techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) delivered online can treat mental disorders . However, you don’t need to be diagnosed with or experiencing a mental illness to seek therapy. Therapy may also help with daily tasks, life stress, and guidance in a career path. 

New college graduates may have many choices for what to do next, including traveling, volunteering, pursuing postgraduate education, or entering the workforce as an employee or intern. These options can have pros and cons, and deciding which is right for you may require careful reflection on your values and long-term career goals. Consider contacting a therapist online or in your area for support in this process.

• College Counseling: The Benefits, The Drawbacks, And What To Expect Medically reviewed by April Justice , LICSW
• A Guide To College Move-In Day: Balancing Logistics And Mental Health Medically reviewed by Julie Dodson , MA
• Relationships and Relations

Informing Educator Preparation Programs_Daniela Vilarinho Rezende Pereira

until file(s) become available

Informing Educator Preparation Programs: Insights into Technology Integration

The overarching purpose of this three-paper dissertation was to investigate the affordances of technology in educational settings and gain insight into how preservice and inservice teachers integrate technology as they design, develop, implement, and manage learning experiences. To meet this goal, three studies were conducted. In study 1 the purpose was to describe how preservice teachers identify educational problems and suggest solutions in which educational technology can be meaningfully implemented by using a problem-solving lens. Participated in this study 100 preservice teachers enrolled in an introductory educational technology course. Students’ technology integration activity was analyzed for this study. This activity, divided into three parts, required that students (1) shared and reflected on their best academic learning experience, (2) described how they could integrate technology into that learning experience, and (3) revisited their suggestions for technology integration, evaluated their ideas, and suggested revisions. Data were analyzed using an ill-structured problem-solving model synthesized from previous literature: identifying problems, generating solutions, making justifications, and monitoring. Results of this study indicated that preservice teachers had a simplistic understanding of technology integration, likely resulting from underdeveloped problem-solving skills. In study 2 the purpose was to identify the instructional strategies and technology affordances used while integrating technology that facilitated the development of student creativity by completing a systematic literature review about how technology (i.e., social media) is being used by educators to foster creativity. After the process of identification and screening, a total of 27 articles met the inclusion criteria and were selected for further analysis. The results indicated that, in most studies in which the use of technology was associated with promoting student creativity, a student-centered approach was used. Students had autonomy and flexibility to produce content, express their opinions, and share their experiences using social media. Also, participants used social media to create their own products, communicate with others, and collaborate virtually. In the studies, we identified that the social media affordances of ownership, association, and visibility lead to fostering student creativity. In conclusion, social media, when integrated with appropriate instructional strategies, can be successfully used as an educational tool to build an environment that promotes student creativity. In study 3 the purpose was to analyze the forms in which special education teachers design learning experiences that provide an environment for creativity development for students from special education and how their proposed technology integration plays a role in it across different settings (i.e., face-to-face, blended, and online learning). Three practicing teachers enrolled in an online graduate program in special education participated in this study. For the purpose of this study, the primary data source consisted of assignments (i.e., artifacts and reflections) submitted by students to the Technology Integration - Blended and Online Teaching (Ti-BOT) program, a licensure required as part of their Special Education program. Artifacts were analyzed through the lens of the existing literature on learning environments for creativity. Reflections were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach, applying a combination of inductive and deductive coding. The artifacts presented by the participants included elements of a creative environment and technology often facilitated the development of such an environment. However, the participants did not appear to explicitly and intentionally design activities to foster creativity, but to make modifications to learning activities and assessments that reflected the level of individualization and adaptations that are typically expected from special education teachers, described in individualized education plans (IEPs), and guided by Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles. With the findings from this three-paper dissertation, the goal is to provide recommendations for how educator preparation programs can improve how they are approaching technology integration, gain deeper understanding of technology integration across diverse contexts and tools, and offer strategies for supporting the deeper consideration of how technologies can be meaningfully used.

Degree Type

• Doctor of Philosophy
• Curriculum and Instruction

Campus location

• West Lafayette

Advisor/Supervisor/Committee Chair

Additional committee member 2, additional committee member 3, additional committee member 4, additional committee member 5, usage metrics.

• Curriculum and pedagogy not elsewhere classified