problem solving activities for kindy

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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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• Competition Program

1. Build A Tower

Location : Home or Classroom

Format : Individual or Team

Description : This activity challenges children to build the tallest tower possible using materials like blocks, straws, or recycled items. The goal is to encourage creativity, planning, and structural understanding.

How to conduct the activity :

• Provide a variety of building materials such as blocks, straws, cardboard, and tape.
• Set a time limit for the activity (e.g., 20 minutes).
• Allow children to work individually or in teams to build their towers.
• After the time is up, measure the height of each tower and discuss the design choices and challenges faced during construction.

2. Escape Room Challenge

Location : Classroom

Format : Team

Description : In this activity, children must work together to solve puzzles and clues to “escape” from a locked room scenario. This promotes critical thinking, teamwork, and logical reasoning.

• Set up a room with various puzzles and clues that lead to the final solution (e.g., finding a key or a code).
• Divide the children into small teams.
• Provide an initial clue to start the challenge.
• Allow teams to work together to solve each puzzle within a set time limit (e.g., 30 minutes).
• Facilitate a discussion after the activity to reflect on the strategies used and the importance of teamwork and communication.

3. Puzzle Solving

Description : Engaging in jigsaw puzzles or logic puzzles helps improve problem-solving skills by challenging children to think critically and find solutions to complex problems.

• Provide a variety of puzzles, such as jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, or Sudoku.
• Allow children to choose a puzzle and set a time limit for completing it.
• If done in teams, encourage collaboration and discussion to solve the puzzle together.
• After completing the puzzles, discuss the strategies used and any challenges faced during the activity.

4. Team Scavenger Hunt

Location : Outdoor or Indoor

Description : In this activity, teams work together to find items on a list within a set time. This promotes teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking.

• Create a list of items for the scavenger hunt (e.g., a red leaf, a feather, a specific book).
• Set a time limit for the hunt (e.g., 30 minutes).
• Provide the list to each team and allow them to search for the items.
• The team that finds the most items or completes the list first wins.
• Discuss the strategies used by the teams and the importance of communication and cooperation.

5. Human Knot

Location : Indoor or Outdoor

Description : Teams must untangle themselves without letting go of each other’s hands. This activity fosters teamwork, communication, and problem-solving under physical constraints.

• Have the children stand in a circle and hold hands with two different people across from them, creating a human knot.
• The goal is to untangle the knot without letting go of each other’s hands.
• Allow the teams to communicate and work together to find a solution.
• If the knot becomes too difficult, allow for a strategic pause to discuss the next moves.
• After untangling, discuss what strategies worked best and the importance of clear communication and teamwork.

6. Group Story Creation

Description : Each team member adds a sentence to a story, promoting creativity, collaboration, and logical progression in storytelling.

• Start with a simple opening sentence for a story.
• Each team member adds a sentence to the story, taking turns.
• Continue until the story reaches a natural conclusion or set a limit for the number of sentences.
• Share the stories with the entire group and discuss the creative process and the importance of building on each other’s ideas.

7. Marshmallow Challenge

Location : Classroom or Camp

Description : Teams are challenged to build the tallest structure possible using spaghetti, tape, and a marshmallow. This activity encourages creativity, planning, and structural understanding.

• Provide each team with 20 sticks of spaghetti, one yard of tape, one yard of string, and one marshmallow.
• Set a time limit (e.g., 18 minutes) for building the structure.
• The goal is to build the tallest free-standing structure with the marshmallow on top.
• After the time is up, measure the height of each structure.
• Discuss the different approaches used by each team, the challenges they faced, and what they learned about structural integrity and teamwork.

8. Mystery Bags

Description : Using their sense of touch, children guess the items inside mystery bags, enhancing sensory perception and deductive reasoning.

• Fill several bags with different objects.
• Children can ask yes/no questions or work in teams to identify the objects.
• Set a time limit for each guess.
• Discuss the process and strategies used to identify the items, emphasizing the importance of sensory skills and logical deduction.

9. Treasure Maps

Description : Following a treasure map with clues and landmarks helps children develop navigation skills, critical thinking, and teamwork.

• Draw a detailed treasure map with clues and landmarks.
• Hide a “treasure” (e.g., a small toy or treat) at a specific location.
• Divide the children into teams and give each team a copy of the map.
• Set a time limit for finding the treasure by solving riddles and completing tasks.
• After the activity, discuss the strategies used, the importance of following directions, and how well the teams worked together.

10. Math Relay Race

Location : Classroom or Outdoor

Description : Combining physical activity with problem-solving, children solve math problems at each station of a relay race.

• Set up a relay race course with stations, each featuring a different math problem.
• Divide the children into teams.
• Each team member must solve a math problem before running to the next station.
• The first team to complete all the problems and cross the finish line wins.
• Discuss the importance of both physical activity and mental agility in problem-solving.

11. Maze Challenges

Location : Home, Classroom, or Outdoor

Description : Solving mazes, either on paper or physically constructed, develops spatial awareness and strategic planning.

• Provide printed mazes or set up a physical maze using string or tape.
• Children must find the correct path from start to finish.
• If done in teams, allow them to strategize together.
• Set a time limit for the activity.
• After completing the maze, discuss the strategies used and the importance of planning and spatial awareness.

12. Debate Club

Description : Engaging in structured debates on various topics helps children improve logical reasoning, communication, and persuasion skills.

• Choose a relevant and age-appropriate topic for debate.
• Divide the children into two teams, assigning each team a position (for or against).
• Allow time for the teams to research and prepare their arguments.
• Conduct the debate, giving each team equal time to present their points and rebuttals.
• After the debate, facilitate a discussion on the importance of logical reasoning, effective communication, and respecting differing viewpoints.

13. Gardening Project

Location : Garden or Outdoor Area

Description : Planning and maintaining a garden teaches children about ecosystems, responsibility, and problem-solving in a practical, hands-on way.

• Choose a suitable outdoor area for the garden.
• Provide gardening tools, seeds, and plants.
• Allow children to plan the garden layout, decide what to plant, and how to care for the plants.
• Encourage them to work individually or in teams to plant and maintain the garden.
• Over time, have the children observe the growth and troubleshoot any issues (e.g., pests, watering schedules).
• Discuss the lessons learned about responsibility, environmental stewardship, and problem-solving.

14. Cooking Challenge

Location : Kitchen

Description : Following a recipe or creating a dish with limited ingredients encourages creativity, planning, and practical problem-solving.

• Provide a selection of ingredients and basic kitchen tools.
• Divide the children into teams and either provide a recipe or challenge them to create a dish using the available ingredients.
• Set a time limit for planning and cooking.
• After the dishes are prepared, have a taste test and discuss the process, challenges faced, and solutions found.
• Highlight the importance of following instructions, time management, and teamwork.

15. DIY Crafts

Description : Creating crafts from various materials encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and problem-solving as children figure out how to bring their ideas to life.

• Provide a variety of crafting materials (paper, glue, scissors, markers, recycled items).
• Allow children to choose a craft project or give them a specific challenge (e.g., create an animal, design a greeting card).
• Let them work individually or in teams to complete the project.
• Afterward, display the crafts and have a discussion about the creative process, any difficulties encountered, and how they were resolved.

16. Coding Games

Description : Using simple coding games or apps like Scratch, children create animations or solve coding challenges, enhancing their logical thinking and programming skills.

• Introduce children to basic coding concepts using apps like Scratch.
• Provide a set of challenges or allow them to create their own animations.
• Encourage them to work individually or in teams.
• After completing the coding tasks, have a showcase to demonstrate their projects.
• Discuss the problem-solving strategies used in coding and the importance of logical thinking.

17. Environmental Clean-up

Location : Outdoor

Description : Planning and executing a local clean-up project teaches children about environmental stewardship, teamwork, and community problem-solving.

• Identify a local area that needs cleaning (e.g., a park, beach, or school grounds).
• Provide cleaning supplies such as gloves, trash bags, and recycling bins.
• Divide the children into teams and assign specific areas or tasks to each team.
• Set a time limit for the clean-up activity.
• After the clean-up, discuss the importance of environmental responsibility, teamwork, and the impact of their efforts on the community.

18. Memory Games

Description : Playing memory games improves children’s concentration and problem-solving skills by challenging them to remember sequences of objects, numbers, or images.

• Set up a memory game with cards or objects arranged in a specific order.
• Allow children to study the sequence for a short time, then cover or shuffle the items.
• Challenge them to recall the sequence correctly.
• If done in teams, encourage them to discuss and strategize together.
• Discuss the importance of concentration and memory in problem-solving.

19. LEGO Building

Description : Building structures or solving building challenges using LEGO bricks encourages creativity, planning, and engineering problem-solving.

• Provide a variety of LEGO bricks and building accessories.
• Give children specific building challenges (e.g., build a bridge that can hold a certain weight, create a model of a famous landmark).
• Allow them to work individually or in teams to complete the challenge.
• After the building time, showcase the creations and discuss the design choices, challenges faced, and problem-solving techniques used.
• Highlight the importance of creativity, planning, and structural integrity.

20. Role-playing Scenarios

Location : Classroom or Drama Club

Description : Acting out scenarios that require quick thinking and problem-solving helps children develop communication, empathy, and decision-making skills.

• Create a series of role-playing scenarios that involve common problems or conflicts (e.g., resolving a disagreement, planning an event, responding to an emergency).
• Divide the children into teams and assign each team a scenario.
• Allow time for the teams to discuss and plan their response to the scenario.
• Have each team act out their scenario in front of the group.
• After each performance, discuss the problem-solving approaches used, the effectiveness of the communication, and what could be improved.

Supporting your child’s problem-solving development can be both fun and easy. Spark Math by Spark Education offers interactive lessons and animated explanations for children ages 4-11, designed to enhance critical thinking skills. Our program includes a variety of learning tools such as tangrams, maze maps, Rubik’s cubes, and building blocks to make learning more effective and enjoyable. These tools are integrated into our lessons to help children improve their problem-solving abilities. Sign up for a FREE trial class to experience Spark Math today!

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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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17 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids

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Last Updated on December 28, 2022 by Kristian Surban

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.

Table of Contents

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 .

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15 Best Problem Solving Activities: Foster Critical Thinking

1. Rolling Dice

2. build a tower, 3. tic tac toe, 4. scavenger hunt, 6. activity books, 7. board games, 9. human knot, 10. open-ended questions.

Problem solving activities for kids are a great way to teach them how to think critically and creatively, and how to develop a growth mindset . We’re sure you must have also played many educational games as a kid that helped you develop critical thinking or problem-solving- skills you’re using even today. These activities can be tailored to be fun and engaging, and they help kids understand that challenges and difficulties are opportunities to learn and grow instead of things to be feared.

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By providing kids with problem-solving activities, we can give them the tools to develop their problem-solving skills and build the confidence to tackle difficult challenges, which will be valuable to them throughout their life. It will also help them understand that their abilities can be developed with practice and hard work, encouraging them to persevere through difficult tasks and not give up easily when faced with obstacles. If you’re looking for some fun and engaging problem solving activities for children to develop a growth mindset, we have curated a list of activities for you.

15 Best Problem Solving Activities for Kids

Things you’ll need: A die or dice, some flashcards and a pen

How to do: You can play tons of different games with dice. Playing with two dice encourages kids to quickly add up numbers and learn math in a fun way . One fun game you can play with a single die involves flashcards. For this game, you can assign a category to each number on the die and when the kid rolls the die, they have to name any 3 examples from the category assigned to the number rolled. For example, if number 4 is assigned to animals and it is rolled, they will have to name any 3 animals. 

Things you’ll need: Building blocks, lego, toilet rolls or anything that can be stacked

How to do: If you’re looking for problem solving activities for 5 year olds, this is for you. To play this game, just give the kids anything that can be stacked on top of the other. This can be building blocks, lego, Jenga blocks, toilet rolls, etc. The challenge is to stack one on top of the other and see how high a tower they can build. This game can be played in teams or individually as well. 

Things you’ll need: A tic tac tow board or pen and paper

How to do: This is one of the most exciting problem solving fun activities for students. You can either play this game on a tic tac toe board or on paper. If you’re playing it on paper, draw a table so that you have 9 boxes. Now each player must choose X or O and try to make a continuous row of their chosen symbol. Whoever succeeds wins. 

Things you’ll need: Small toys, stationery items, or anything you want to include in a scavenger hunt

How to do: Assign the teams or individual players specific items they have to find in a defined area. This can be an indoor or outdoor activity for kids . Give them a list of the things they need to find, and you can also give them hints on where to find these things. Whoever or whichever team finds all the things first wins. 

Things you’ll need: A puzzle game

How to do: Get a puzzle set. This can be a regular cardboard puzzle or a wooden puzzle and ask the players or teams to arrange it. You can make this a timed challenge or just let the kids solve the puzzle in their own time and have fun. 

Things you’ll need: Activity books and pencils

How to do: This is one of the best problem solving activities for kids. Activity books are great for children’s problem-solving skills to develop. Buy them activity books containing games like find the element, what’s wrong with the pictures, or hidden picture books. 

Things you’ll need: Board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly Junior, and Go Fish

How to do: Give them board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly Junior, Go Fish, etc. These board games help kids to develop logic, think deeper, plan ahead and solve problems. 

Things you’ll need: A chalk

How to do: Build a maze with chalk on the sidewalk. Make sure you add a few dead-end ways to make it more challenging for the kids. Once the kid is able to walk through and come out of the maze, take the game to the next level by adding even more dead-end ways and see how they overcome the challenge. 

Things you’ll need: Just a playground or garden

How to do: This is a great group activity for kids that’ll also teach them lots of skills. Ask the kids to form a circle and raise their right arm up. Now ask them to reach out to someone standing opposite to them in the circle and hold their left hand with their left hand. Now ask them to raise their left hands up and repeat the process with their right hands. The objective is to entangle them completely and then ask them to detangle themselves without letting go of anyone’s hands. 

Things you’ll need: Pen and paper 

How to do: Once you’re done with an activity, ask kids open-ended questions. These are questions that have no right or wrong answers. Some examples of such questions are- “Did you find this activity easy?”, “What did you enjoy the most about this activity?”, “How would you make this activity more fun?”, etc. 

11. Wool Web

Things you’ll need: Balls of yarn

How to do: This is one of the most exciting group problem solving classroom activities for kids . Divide the players into equal teams and ask them to form a circle. Hand them over one ball of yarn each and ask them to make a web of it amongst the teams. Set a time limit for this step, and once it is done, switch the webs so that none of the teams has their own webs. Now the teams will decide on one player from each team to be blindfolded. This blindfolded player will have to untangle to web assigned to their team with the help of verbal instructions from their teams. The team that untangles the web first wins. 

12. Fingertip Hula Hoop

Things you’ll need: Hula hoops

How to do: Divide the kids into teams of 6-8 for this game. Each team will stand in a circle and then be asked to raise their hands up. Now, place a hula hoop on top of their fingertips and ask them to bring it down slowly and make it touch the ground without it falling down or leaving the fingertips. The team to finish the task first wins. 

13. Obstacle Course

Things you’ll need: Pillows, blankets, mattresses, cones, balls, chairs, etc. 

How to do: Build an obstacle course indoors or outdoors with whatever you can find. This makes for one of the most engaging problem solving games for kids. Ask your kids to cross the obstacle course as fast as they can. To make it a bit more challenging, you can also ask them to race against each other to cross the obstacle course. 

14. Memory Games

Things you’ll need: Playing cards

How to do: For this fun cards game, place all the cards face down and take turns to turn 2-4 cards. If you are able to open two similar cards (in number), you get to keep the pair. The player with the highest number of cards with them in the end wins.  

15. Impromptu Plays

Things you’ll need: A stage

How to do: This is one of the best problem-solving exercises for kids to play in groups. If you have a large group, divide the kids into teams of 6-8. If the group is smaller, just make the kids stand individually. Now make a few chits on a theme that has questions that form a difficult situation or a challenge. For example, you can put in chits with questions like “You just found your friend cheating in an exam. What do you tell them?” or “Your younger sibling just broke your favorite toy. How do you react?”. Each team must enact a scene that includes the situation their chit has. If the group isn’t that big, each kid must speak about the same chit but have different perspectives. 

Why Are Problem Solving Skills Important for Kids?

Developing problem solving skills is extremely important for kids as it helps them to navigate easily around difficulties later on in life. As adults, we’re faced with challenging situations every day, and without our basic problem-solving skills, we wouldn’t be able to survive.

Problem solving skills also help kids to make effective decisions. It helps them resolve problems all at once without reducing them to smaller problems. Once kids develop problem solving skills, it is easier for them to develop other skills as well like critical thinking, cooperation and collaboration with others.

Having problem solving skills helps kids to become more creative and think differently than others and enables them to become independent. These skills also help kids develop decision-making skills and build their confidence along the way as they take the right decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the 5 problem solving skills.

The five problem solving skills are identifying the problem, producing possible results that might work, picking one solution from these, applying the chosen solution and evaluating the results.

What are some examples of problem-solving skills in kids?

Some of the problem solving skills in kids are research, creativity, team-building, communication, active listening, decision-making, and analysis. If you find some of these skills in a kid, chances are they’re great at problem solving.

What is problem solving learning?

According to cornell.edu, Problem solving learning is an approach wherein students are asked open-ended questions about a certain topic, and they must resolve and answer  the same in groups.

At what age do children begin problem-solving?

According to a study by Shaffer , kids can start developing basic problem solving skills from the age of three. This further continues to develop as they grow.

What are three problem-solving techniques

According to deakin.edu , the three most basic problem solving techniques are defining the problem, listing out all the possible solutions, and evaluating the options.

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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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14 Best Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Problem-solving is a vital skill for children, enabling them to confidently tackle life's challenges. It enhances their academic performance while fostering adaptability and resilience.

In this blog, we'll share the best problem-solving activities for kids to help you teach them effective problem-solving skills. Let's get started!

Easy & Fun Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Easy problem-solving activities for kids can be a great way to make learning enjoyable and boost their confidence. Here are some of the most enjoyable critical thinking and problem-solving activities for kids.

1. MentalUP Learning Games

This is the ultimate app, offering hundreds of problem-solving activities for pre-K kids, middle and high school kids, and even adults! MentalUP provides its users with an engaging learning environment where they can test and expand their core cognitive skills.

Scientifically designed by academicians, educators, and game developers, the app offers daily personalized brain training and exercise plans for individuals. These plans are filled with effective games, activities, and exercises tailored to their developmental needs.

Moreover, it comes with rich and detailed performance tracking features and modules, enabling users to access comprehensive information about their progress or their children's learning journey.

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2. Jigsaw Puzzles

Suitable for kids of all ages, Jigsaw Puzzles are one of the most functional problem-solving activities for kids. It can also enhance spatial reasoning, visual perception, memory , and concentration skills.

Jigsaw puzzles can be completed individually or in groups, and they are available in various levels of difficulty. When selecting a puzzle , be sure to choose the appropriate size and number of pieces based on your child’s age and ability.

3. Treasure Map

This is one of the best problem-solving activities for kids in groups. It can foster kids' creativity, imagination, collaboration, and navigation skills. Treasure maps can be done indoors or outdoors, and they can involve clues, riddles, or challenges.

To create a treasure map, create a map of your location and then hide a treasure somewhere. Next, provide your kids with the map along with some hints to help them locate the treasure. For added excitement, consider introducing obstacles or surprises along the way.

4. Tic-Tac-Toe

Tic-Tac-Toe is one of the best puzzle problem-solving activities for kids. It helps children improve their problem-solving skills by developing logic, strategy, and foresight. It also teaches them about patterns, symmetry, and geometry .

You'll need a 3x3 grid and two players, one using X and the other O. Take turns placing your mark in an empty square on the grid. The goal is to get three of your marks in a row horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. The first player to do so wins.

I Spy is a popular problem-solving activity that enhances observation, communication, vocabulary, and deduction skills, making it one of the best interactive problem-solving activities for kids.

To play I Spy, you need to choose an object that you can see and say, “I spy with my little eye something that…” followed by a clue about the object’s color, shape, size etc. Then you must let your child guess the object by asking yes or no questions. You can use this alternative as one of the best rainy day activities for kids .

Favorite Interactive Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Interactive problem-solving activities for kids can enhance teamwork and communication skills, preparing children for success in both academic and real-life scenarios. Here are some of the best interactive and quick team-building activities for kids' problem-solving.

6. Monopoly Junior

If you're searching for board games that can be transformed into one of the most fun maths problem-solving activities for kids, you should check Monopoly Junior. It's a simplified version of the Monopoly, specifically designed for young children.

This fun board game can improve problem-solving skills by teaching participants how to manage money, make decisions, and plan ahead. It can also develop mathematical, economic, critical thinking, and social skills.

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7. Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt can enhance problem-solving skills by encouraging participants to think creatively, logically, and strategically. It can be an excellent choice if you're searching for problem-solving outdoor activities for kids.

Suitable for kids of all ages, the game requires players to find or collect specific items or complete certain tasks from a list, typically within a specified time limit. You can enjoy playing it with your kids during trips or in your garden.

8. Human Knot

If you're searching for problem-solving games or activities for middle school kids, be sure to explore this game. It not only promotes problem-solving but also encourages communication, cooperation, leadership, and trust among the players.

Human Knot is a team-building activity that requires the participants to form a circle, grab two opposite hands of other participants, and then untangle themselves without letting go of the hands. It can be played with 5 to 12 players.

9. Obstacle Courses

Participating in an obstacle course isn't just an excellent exercise for kids; it's also one of the best real-world problem-solving activities for kids. It can enhance their physical fitness , coordination , confidence, and resilience.

An obstacle course is a series of physical challenges that kids must overcome, typically within a timed context. You can customize it to your liking by incorporating obstacles that involve running, climbing, crawling, or balancing. Additionally, it is suitable for children of all ages.

10. Hedbanz

Hedbanz is a guessing game in which players wear a card on their headband displaying an animal, food, or object. Players must ask yes or no questions to determine what they are before the timer runs out. It is suitable for kids aged 7 and up and can be played with 2 to 6 players.

As one of the most entertaining problem-solving social skills activities for kids, this game improves problem-solving skills by stimulating participants' critical thinking, memory, and deduction abilities. It can also enhance vocabulary, language, and communication skills.

Top Creative Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

As we have assessed the most enjoyable and interactive problem-solving activities for kids, let's delve into activities that will encourage children to think outside the box and develop their imagination.

11. Move an Object

Moving an object is one of the most creative problem-solving activities for kids, capable of enhancing their creativity, flexibility, and motor skills. It is suitable for children aged 5 and up and can be played individually or in groups.

All you need to do is to ask your child to move the object from one place to another but with some restrictions on how to move it. For example, you might say, “You can only use your left hand”, or “You have to move it without touching it”.

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12. The Alphabet Game

This is one of the best cooperative problem-solving activities for kids that improve their problem-solving skills by stimulating their vocabulary, memory, and creativity . It also enhances their spelling and writing skills.

To play this game, you will need a piece of paper, a pencil, and a timer. First, choose a category and write it down. Then, set the timer for one minute and try to write down as many words as you can that belong to that category and start with each letter of the alphabet.

13. Balloon Rocket Experiment

This is one of the most entertaining real-life problem-solving activities for kids that helps them improve their problem-solving skills by introducing the basic principles of physics and engineering. It also sparks their curiosity and interest in science.

For this experiment, you'll need a balloon, a straw, string, tape, and two objects of the same height. Tie the string between the objects, thread it through the straw, and tape the balloon to the straw's middle. Inflate the balloon, release it, and watch it fly like a rocket!

14. Building Towers

This is one of the most fun problem-solving activities for kids aged 3 and up. Building towers can also enhance fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination , planning, and engineering skills.

You can use any stackable materials like building blocks or LEGO bricks and challenge your child to build the tallest or most stable tower possible. Enhance the activity by adding constraints or variations to make it more challenging and fun.

How to Teach Kids Problem-Solving Skills: 5 Effective Strategies

From team problem-solving activities for kids to creative ones, we have explored a variety of activities for enhancing children's thinking and problem-solving skills. However, there are still a variety of ways to teach children about problem-solving.

Here are five effective ways to keep your children's minds active and help them use their problem-solving skills effectively.

1. Encourage Critical Thinking

Critical thinking helps children develop the ability to assess situations, consider various options, and make informed choices. To encourage this skill, pose open-ended questions that require them to think deeply and provide opportunities for them to solve problems with minimal guidance.

2. Educational Games

Using educational games from the best problem solving apps is a fun and effective way to teach problem-solving skills. These games present challenges that require players to use their problem-solving abilities, fostering critical thinking, logic, and decision-making in a relaxed, interactive environment.

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3. Promote Creativity and Innovation

Creativity and innovation are vital for problem-solving. Encourage children to think outside the box, come up with new ideas, and explore unconventional solutions to problems. Provide them with opportunities to engage in creative activities like art, writing, or building projects.

4. Model Problem Solving

Children often learn by observing and imitating adults. To teach problem-solving skills effectively, demonstrate how to approach and solve problems in various situations. Share your thought process, talk about your decision-making, and show them how to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable steps.

5. Teach the Problem-Solving Process

Problem-solving is a systematic process. Teach children the steps involved in problem-solving, such as identifying the problem, brainstorming solutions, evaluating those solutions, selecting the best one, and implementing it.

The Importance of Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential abilities that children need to develop from an early age. Here are compelling reasons why nurturing these skills through fun activities is essential:

• Encourages creativity and innovation.
• Enhances decision-making abilities.
• Build resilience in facing challenges.
• Fosters a love for learning.
• Promotes teamwork and collaboration.
• Improves adaptability to new situations.
• Boosts self-confidence and independence.
• Prepares them for real-world problem-solving.
• Develop analytical thinking skills.
• Makes learning enjoyable and engaging.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you still have questions about problem-solving skills in kids, here are the most commonly asked questions about the topic, along with their answers.

What are the 5 problem-solving skills?

The five problem-solving skills include critical thinking, creativity, decision-making, communication, and collaboration.

What are some examples of problem-solving skills in kids?

Examples of problem-solving skills in kids include finding alternative solutions to a conflict with a friend, inventing a new game using available resources, and figuring out how to complete a challenging puzzle.

What is problem-solving learning?

Problem-solving learning is an educational approach that focuses on developing students' abilities to analyze, strategize, and solve complex problems through active and experiential methods.

At what age do children begin problem-solving?

Children typically begin to develop problem-solving skills during early childhood, around the ages of 3 to 4, and continue to refine them throughout their developmental stages.

What are the potential challenges of teaching problem-solving to kids?

Potential challenges of teaching problem-solving to kids may include keeping their engagement and interest, adapting instruction to their developmental stage, and addressing individual learning differences.

What are the most common mistakes children make when solving problems?

Common mistakes children make when solving problems include impulsivity, limited perspective-taking, overlooking details, and struggling with frustration or giving up too quickly.

Whether you support your kids on their learning journey with puzzles or social problem-solving activities for kids, it's best to ensure that the context of the game is tailored to their needs and interests.

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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: 

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#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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Kindergarten Lessons

Involve me and I learn...

Math Teaching/Learning

KINDERGARTEN PROBLEM SOLVING

Learning how to approach and solve problems early in life, not only helps children enjoy and look forward to sorting them out, it also helps them make and keep friends.

Preschool and kindergarten problem solving activities give children an opportunity to use skills they have learned previously and give you an opening to teach new problem solving strategies.

Introduce the vocabulary of solving problems with stories, puppets and everyday situations that occur. “We only have 10 apples but there are 20 students. This is a problem . Let’s think of some ways that we can solve this problem ?”

Use terms like, “a different way, let’s brainstorm, that’s a challenge, let’s think of some different solutions”.

How do I develop a problem solving approach?

Asking children questions such as , “How would you…?” or “Show me how you could…?”, help set the stage for teaching with a problem solving approach. Keep problem solving topics about subjects that interest the students. Kids are constantly trying to problem solve as they play.

Students are learning to:

• Identify problems or challenges
• Fact find (what do I know, what have I tried)
• Think of ways to solve the problem (brainstorm, creative thinking, generate ideas)
• Test their ideas

What preschool and kindergarten problem solving strategies can I teach?

Young children need real objects, pictures, diagrams, and models to solve problems. Start with real objects and move slowly to diagrams and pictures. Any of the following problem solving strategies will help them work through the four steps above:

• using objects
• acting the problem out
• looking for patterns
• guessing and checking
• drawing pictures
• making a graph
• teach with projects

Play creates classroom opportunities for problem solving

Perhaps a child is getting frustrated as he/she plays with blocks. To help him/her focus on the problem ask questions such as:

• What are you trying to do with your blocks?
• What isn’t working?
• What have you tried?
• Can you think of another way to stack the blocks?
• What else can you try?

Encourage creative thinking

Reinforce creative thinking, not results. The ability to solve problems and think creativity is important.

Talk about the different ways the child tried to solve the problem rather than the outcome. “Joe tried three different ways to stack the blocks. That was a great effort, Joe.”

Social classroom problem solving opportunities are abundant…

• Identify the problem – – Talk about the problem. For instance, some children may be worried because other kids are hiding the center markers for the play center and giving them to their friends. Other kids are not getting turns.
• Fact find – – There are only 4 center markers for the play center because it is small and more than 4 kids would be too crowded. Some kids are hiding them so they can play with the same children each time.
• Brainstorm ideas – How can everyone have turns? What ideas do you have? What could we try?
• Test the idea – Let’’s try that idea and meet again tomorrow and see how it’s working.

Investigating and Problem Solving

Using short periods of time examining and investigating objects, such as feathers or rocks, captures children’s attention and challenges them to inquire, to develop mind sets of being problem solvers and to think independently. Find a sample lesson here…

4 Problem-Solving Games for Kids

Problem-Solving Games for Kids

Ever watch your little one furrow their brow, puzzled over some problem? As parents, it can be hard sometimes to not step in and help them, but watching their brains work to find the solution can also be fun. Problem-solving helps your child think on their feet, play nicely with others, and tackle tricky tasks themselves. But how do we help build this skill?

Check out these problem-solving games for kids. Help your child learn important skills while having fun!

Why are Problem-Solving Skills Key in Child Development?

Problem-solving isn’t just about finding the right piece of the puzzle or deciding which block fits; it’s a critical component of cognitive development within a child. Developing problem-solving skills allows them to become independent thinkers and navigate the world around them. This independence gives them confidence and self-reliance, which are invaluable traits as they grow up.

Enhanced cognitive abilities will improve their memory, allow them to process information faster, and improve their decision-making skills. Many problem-solving activities require cooperation and communication with others. Through games, children learn to negotiate, collaborate, and communicate more effectively, something some adults can’t even do!

Lastly, by tackling a variety of challenges, kids learn to think quickly and switch gears swiftly. This adaptability is priceless in our fast-paced world, helping them grow into resilient problem-solvers ready to face life’s ups and downs confidently.

Can Games Help Improve Problem-Solving Skills for Kids?

Studies show different types of problem-solving games, including board games and video games, encourage critical thinking, enhance memory, and boost mental processing speed. Playing games help children learn to make connections between ideas, use what they already know in different situations, and persevere through challenging tasks until they find a solution. Think about how many ways you try to fit one puzzle piece in, but eventually, your persistence pays off, and you snap it into place!

Below are some of the top creative problem-solving games for kids:

• Puzzles : From simple wooden shape puzzles for toddlers to complex 1,000-piece landscapes for preschool and pre-k aged children, puzzles are the classic problem-solving game. They help children build spatial awareness and critical thinking skills. Logical puzzles like Sudoku are great for older children, where they work through the matrix to solve the number puzzle.
• Building blocks or LEGOs : These creative problem-solving games are like puzzles but in 3D. Children use blocks or LEGOs to fit together and build a bigger picture and must overcome challenges like making sure their tower is stable or what to do when they run out of certain types of blocks or LEGO bricks. Building with blocks teaches them about shapes, patterns, and symmetry and allows them to use their imagination. Preschool-aged children can try building advanced sets and robotics, which often include following instructions to create more complex projects.
• Board games : From the classic Guess Who? for young detectives, to chess for strategic thinkers, board games are perfect for teaching kids to think ahead, strategize, and predict others’ moves. Guess Who? teaches deductive reasoning skills as you each take turns guessing. Children learn how to use the process of elimination to solve their problems. In comparison, chess players must think through each of their moves and come up with a game plan or solution to beat their opponent. There are many creative board games for every age to help encourage problem-solving.
• I-Spy : The perfect on-the-go game, I-Spy encourages children to use their observational skills and process of elimination to find their solution. Just choose an object you see and say, “I spy with my little eyes something that is…” and fill in with the object’s color for a clue. Then, your little one can guess the object by asking yes or no questions.

Let Lightbridge Academy Help

Early childhood education centers , like Lightbridge Academy, understand the importance of developing problem-solving skills from a young age. It’s important for kids to figure out a solution to their problems so they can be self-sufficient. What parent doesn’t love that? At Lightbridge Academy, our curriculum is about preparing little minds for big challenges. Integrating problem-solving games in our preschool and pre-k classrooms in a comprehensive STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) education framework, we help them use logic, creativity, and critical thinking to find the correct answer. Our supportive environment encourages little ones to experiment with different answers and learn from their experiences, which is crucial in developing lifelong problem-solving skills.

Curious to see how we do it? Why not come and see the magic yourself? Schedule a tour to learn more about what we do.

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Problem Solving for Kids: How-To Guide, Activities & Strategies

Children need to be able to solve their own problems. In daily life, kids face a lot of set of social circumstances and challenges. Whether they’re trying to figure out how to make friends, deal with bullies, or solve academic problems, they need strong problem-solving skills to be successful.

Problem-solving is a critical life skill that all kids need to learn. By teaching them how to identify and solve problems on their own, you’ll be setting them up for success in school and in life.

What are Social Problem-Solving Skills?

Social problem-solving skills are a skill set that involves behavioral and cognitive processes which allow an individual to find adaptive and positive ways of handling problematic situations that can arise in the social environment in our daily life. These skills comprise an understanding of emotions, empathy, self-awareness, prosocial behavior, anger management, perspective-taking, establishing positive relationships, and so on.

Why It’s Important for Children to Learn the Skills to Problem-Solve

Social problem-solving skills are important for kids to learn because they allow them to cope with the various challenges they face in their social environments, such as peer pressure, bullying, and exclusion from social groups. In addition, these skills can help them resolve conflicts effectively and build positive relationships with others.

How to teach Problem-Solving skills

There are many ways to develop social problem-solving skills in kids . One way is to provide them with opportunities to practice these skills through different activities and games.

There are a few key things that parents and educators can do to help kids develop strong problem-solving skills:

Teach Children to Identify the Problem

One of the most important steps in solving any problem is being able to accurately identify what the problem is. This can be tricky for kids, especially if they’re feeling emotional about the situation. Help them by teaching them how to take a step back and look at the problem objectively.

Help Kids Brainstorm Solutions

Once kids can identify the problem, it’s time to start brainstorming possible solutions. This is where creativity and out-of-the-box thinking come in handy. Encourage kids to think of as many possible solutions as they can, no matter how far-fetched they might seem.

Help Kids Weigh the Pros and Cons

After Children can come up with a few potential solutions, it’s time to help them figure out which one is the best option. This is where critical thinking comes in. Teach kids how to weigh the pros and cons of each solution and make a decision based on logic, not emotions.

Help Kids Implement the Solution

The final step is helping kids actually implement the solution they’ve chosen. This might involve role-playing different scenarios, practicing what they would say or do, or writing out a plan. Whatever the case, be sure to provide support and guidance every step of the way.

Praise Kids

It’s essential to praise your child when they demonstrate social problem-solving skills. This will help him feel confident in his abilities and encourage him to continue using these skills.

Also, proper guidance and opportunities to practice problem-solving skills should be provided for kids to be efficient enough to solve problems on their own. In addition to providing opportunities for practice, it is also important to model problem-solving skills for your child. 

By following these tips, you can help your child develop strong social problem-solving skills that will serve him well throughout his life.

Problem-solving in Child Development

Most children go through similar phases of problem-solving as they develop. However, the timing may vary depending on the child’s individual temperament and circumstances.

Here are some common milestones:

• Ages 2-3: During the age of 2-3 years, kids begin to understand that problems can be solved. They also start to develop a sense of self-control and can begin to use words to express their emotions.
• Ages 3-4: By 3-4 years old, kids are usually better at problem-solving and can use more logical thinking. They’re also beginning to understand other people’s feelings and perspectives.
• Ages 4-5: Around 4-5 years old, kids can usually think of multiple solutions to a problem. They’re also starting to understand the concept of cause and effect.
• Ages 5-6: By 5-6 years old, most kids can apply problem-solving skills in their everyday lives. They’re also able to understand complex emotions and empathize with others.
• Ages 6-7: Around 6-7 years old, kids are usually able to understand even more complex emotions. They’re also starting to see the world from other people’s perspectives and can use this knowledge to solve problems.
• Ages 7-8: By 7-8 years old, kids are often able to solve problems quickly and efficiently. They’re also able to think abstractly and see the world from multiple perspectives.
• Ages 8-9: Around 8-9 years old, kids are usually able to solve problems independently. They’re also beginning to understand the concept of time and how it can be used to solve problems.
• Ages 9-10: By 9-10 years old, kids are often able to solve complex problems. They’re also able to think abstractly and see the world from multiple perspectives.
• Ages 10-11: Around 10-11 years old, kids are usually able to solve problems independently. They’re also beginning to understand the concept of time and how it can be used to solve problems.
• Ages 11-12: By 11-12 years old, kids are often able to solve complex problems. They’re also able to think abstractly and see the world from multiple perspectives.
• Ages 12-13: Around 12-13 years old, kids are usually able to solve problems independently. They’re also beginning to understand the concept of time and how it can be used to solve problems.

As children get older, they should be able to solve more complex problems. If you’re concerned about your child’s problem-solving abilities, talk to their doctor or a child development specialist.

 Social Problem-Solving Strategies

There are several strategies that can help children of primary age to solve problems. Some of them are as follows:

• Encouraging children to take turns and share. This strategy helps children to be more patient and to understand that other people have feelings too. It also allows them to share their own feelings and thoughts more openly.
• Helping children to understand and express their emotions. This strategy helps children to identify and understand their own emotions , as well as the emotions of others. It also allows them to express their emotions in a more positive way.
• Teaching children how to compromise. This strategy helps children to understand that sometimes it is necessary to give up something in order to get something else. It also teaches them how to negotiate and how to reach an agreement with others.
• Encouraging children to think about other people’s perspectives. This strategy helps children to understand that other people have different points of view. It also allows them to see the world from another person’s perspective and to empathize with others.
• Helping children to understand and follow rules. This strategy helps children to understand that there are certain rules that must be followed in order to maintain order and peace. It also teaches them how to respect the rules of others.
• Teaching children how to improve their skills to problem-solve. This strategy helps children to understand that there are many ways to solve a problem. It also teaches them how to think creatively and to come up with their own solutions.

These are just a few of the social problem-solving strategies that can help children of primary age to solve problems. For more information, please talk to your child’s doctor or a child development specialist.

Social Problem-Solving Skills Activities

Games and activities for socialization are an excellent way for children for learning how to behave in social surroundings such as school or in the community.

It is essential for children to learn how to take turns, share, cooperate and resolve conflicts.

Here are some activities to improve social problem-solving skills for children of different age groups:

Social Problem-solving Activities for Preschoolers

Preschoolers are very young and need a lot of help to learn social problem-solving skills. The following activities are fun and will help them develop problem-solving skills.

• Circle Time: This is a great activity for kids to learn how to take turns and share. Give each child a turn to be in the center of the circle and share something about themselves such as their favorite color, food , animal, etc.
• Simon Says: This classic game is a great way for kids to listen and follow instructions. It also helps with problem-solving skills as they have to figure out what Simon is saying.
• Role-Playing: This is a great activity for kids to learn how to resolve conflicts. Have kids act out different scenarios such as sharing toys or taking turns. After each scene, discuss what happened and how the conflict could have been resolved.

Social Problem-solving Activities for Kindergarteners

Kindergarteners are still very young. So, they may need assistance when it comes to social problem-solving skills.

The following activities will give them a chance to practice these skills in a safe and fun environment.

• Cooperative Building: Have the kids work together in small groups to build towers or houses out of blocks or Legos. This activity will help them learn to share, take turns, and cooperate with others.
• Role-Playing: Act out different social situations with puppets or toys. For example, one child can be the customer in a store and the other children can take turns being the salesperson. This activity will help kids learn how to handle different social situations.
• Feelings Matching: Cut out pictures of people with different facial expressions from magazines or newspapers. Ask the kids to match the pictures with the corresponding feeling words (e.g., happy, sad, mad, etc.). This activity will help kids learn to identify and understand different emotions.

Social Problem-solving Activities for School-Aged Kids

As kids get older, they become more independent and are able to handle more complex social situations.

The following activities will help them practice their social problem-solving skills.

• Brainstorming: This activity can be done individually or in a group. Give your child a scenario and have them come up with as many solutions as possible. For example, “Your best friend just cancelled your play date. What are three things you could do?”
• Exercising empathy: It’s important for kids to be able to empathize with others and see things from their perspective. When they’re struggling to solve a problem, help them think about how the other person is feeling. For example, “Your friend might be feeling upset too. Maybe you can talk to her about why she cancelled the play date.
• Problem Solving Games: Games are a fun way to teach children the skills of solving problems. Try playing some classic board games like Chutes and Ladders or Candyland, which require players to make decisions and strategize. There are also many great online games, like Mission to Mars and Robot City, that help kids practice problem-solving.
• Discussing Problem-Solving Skills: As a family, discuss different problem-solving strategies. For example, “If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed or don’t know what to do, take a deep breath and think about what would be the best thing to do in that situation.”
• Model Good Problem-Solving Skills: As a parent, you are your child’s biggest role model. So, it’s important to model good problem-solving skills yourself. Whenever you’re faced with a problem, talk aloud about how you’re going to solve it. For example, “I’m having trouble finding my keys. I think I’ll check the couch first and then look in the car.”
• Encourage positive thinking: Help your child look on the bright side by encouraging them to think of the positive outcomes of a situation. For example, “Even though your play date was cancelled, you now have some free time to do something else you enjoy.
• Practice: It’s important to give kids opportunities to use their problem-solving skills in everyday life. When they’re faced with a social challenge, take a step back and let them try to figure it out on their own. Of course, be there to support them if they need help.

Social Problem-solving Activities for High-School Students 

High-school students often face a variety of social problems. They may have difficulty making friends, fitting in with classmates, or dealing with bullies.

Some students may also struggle with more serious issues, such as gangs, drugs, or violence.

There are a number of activities that can be used to help high-school students with improving their social problem-solving skills. These are as follows:

• Peer Mediation: This activity involves two or more students who are in conflict with each other. The mediator(s) helps the students to communicate with each other and find a resolution to the problem.
• Role-Playing: This is a great activity for helping high-school students to understand different perspectives. Students can take on the role of the person they are in conflict with, and then discuss how they would feel in that situation.
• Problem-Solving Groups: These groups usually consist of 4-6 students who meet to discuss a particular problem. The group leader(s) helps the students to brainstorm solutions and come up with a plan of action.
• Attending Debates: Debates can be a great way for high-school students to learn about different perspectives on social issues. Students can also practice their own argumentative and problem-solving skills by participating in debates.
• Service Learning: This is a type of community service that helps high-school students to understand and address social problems. Students typically work with organizations that focus on issues such as poverty, homelessness, or hunger.

Cultivating Resilience in Children

Developing resilience in children is a key aspect of nurturing their emotional health and equipping them to face life’s challenges head-on. It involves helping them understand that difficulties and setbacks are a normal part of life, and they can grow stronger from overcoming them.

By fostering a secure and loving environment, and by being role models of resilience ourselves, we can instill in children the ability to adapt to change and cope with stress.

One effective method to cultivate resilience in children is by encouraging them to express their feelings and thoughts openly.

Providing a safe space where they feel heard and understood helps them to understand their emotions better, which is a crucial step in resilience building. It’s important to validate their feelings, not minimize them, as it teaches them that it’s normal to experience different emotions, and it’s okay to discuss them.

Another significant way to build resilience is by teaching problem-solving skills. Guiding children through the process of identifying a problem, brainstorming possible solutions, choosing the best one, and reflecting on the outcome can equip them with valuable life skills.

As they practice, they will become more adept at facing challenges, whether big or small, and this boosts their confidence and self-efficacy. The beauty of resilience is that it isn’t an inherent trait; it’s a skill that can be learned and cultivated, one challenge at a time.

Teaching social problem-solving skills can help high-school students learn how to handle these types of situations. These skills can also help them in other areas of their lives, such as dealing with family conflict or managing their emotions.

Through these activities, high-school students can learn important problem-solving skills that will help them in their everyday lives.

There are many different activities that you can do to help your child develop problem-solving skills. Choose activities that are appropriate for your child’s age and interests.

And, most importantly, have fun!

Tips, D. (2022). Developing Problem-Solving Skills for Kids | Strategies & Tips | Kodable Blog. Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.kodable.com/learn/problem-solving-skills-for-kids/

How to Teach Problem-Solving Skills to Children and Preteens. (2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://biglifejournal.com/blogs/blog/how-teach-problem-solving-strategies-kids-guide#:~:text=Allow%20your%20child%20to%20choose,the%20process%20of%20problem%2Dsolving .

Teaching Kids How to Solve Their Own Problems and Make Good Decisions. (2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.verywellfamily.com/teach-kids-problem-solving-skills-1095015

(2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.werockthespectrumkidsgym.com/social-skills-activities-that-teach-kids-problem-solving/

srivastava, m., & srivastava, m. (2022). 12 Problem-Solving Activities For Toddlers And Preschoolers. Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.momjunction.com/articles/problem-solving-activities-for-toddlers_00795607/

20 Evidence-Based Social Skills Activities and Games for Kids. (2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.positiveaction.net/blog/social-skills-activities-and-games-for-kids

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Ten of our favourite early years problem-solving activities

A lot of the time when we hear the term ‘problem-solving’, our brain jumps back to the tricky maths teasers from our school days, and we immediately recoil a little. However, problem-solving is much more than number conundrums.   

Problem-solving is a key part of early years development and can support learning across many of the My First Five Years streams. The skill of problem-solving starts developing very early in a child's life and stems from the knowledge of the world that they are constantly building.[1]. For instance, your baby may cry when hungry as they know that crying gets the attention of an adult who can feed them.   

Problem-solving is a part of everyday life for children, from being a baby through to their future adulthood. When children learn how to solve problems, it can support them in building resilience, self-confidence and self-esteem. Taking part in problem-solving activities with others can also help children develop social skills, communication and relationships.[2]   

Psychologist Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development also focuses on the importance of problem-solving for early childhood development. In each developmental stage of his theory, the psychologist emphasised the importance of play-based learning for young children when it comes to problem-solving, and in turn building skills across the spectrum.[3]    

Supporting problem-solving  

When thinking about problem-solving activities for your child, it can be difficult to know where to begin.   

To keep children engaged, enabling them to take the lead and follow their interests, is key. Play-based, hands-on learning makes acquiring new skills more interesting and memorable for young children.[4]    

Many activities can support children when developing their problem-solving abilities – the possibilities are wide open. When considering which problem-solving activities are the most effective, it is also important to consider how they can be adapted to multiple interests, abilities and how accessible they are when it comes to using resources and materials.   

To help you out, here are ten of My First Five Years’ favourite problem-solving activities that you can try with your child.   

1) Den-building

Den-building is brilliant for problem-solving as it requires creative and critical-thinking, foresight, and planning. It is also a wonderful way to promote sustained shared thinking with your child. Sustained shared thinking is a way of working together that encourages individuals to evaluate the problem that they are working on and is focused on collaboration, using experiences and prior knowledge.[5]  

When building a den with your child, encourage your child to take the lead. You could provide materials such as boxes and blankets, or you could even ask your child to decide what materials you need before starting, encouraging them to plan out their work. Den-building can also be done both indoors and outdoors and with children from a young age. You may find that people have already started creating these in your local woodland that you can add to, adapt, or just enjoy!  

2) Cooking and baking

Cooking and baking are not only fun activities, but they also focus on mathematical problem-solving. To bring problem-solving into a cooking and baking activity, you can ask your child to count out simple measurements, for instance, cups of flour or sugar. Activities like cooking or baking are great for children to be able to take ownership of what is happening; encourage them to choose what you will make and allow them to do all the elements themselves.   

What’s great about cooking is it really doesn't matter how it turns out! Problems can arise often in cooking or baking, for example, the mixture may turn out too dry, you may be an ingredient short, or your cakes might not rise how you expected them to. If this is the case, talk to your child about what might have gone wrong and how you can rectify it next time! Then when they come to do it again, they can use their prior knowledge to help them.   

3) Playing with patterns

Patterns are a great activity for mathematical problem-solving. You can create patterns of any objects that you can find! For example, with pieces of fruit, pebbles from the garden, building blocks or even snacks! You could encourage your child to continue patterns, fill in the missing pieces or even create their own for you to solve problems with as they grow more confident. 

4) Sorting and categorising

Sorting and categorising objects is an activity that supports children in mathematical problem - solving and can be easily adapted to individual children’s abilities . You could encourage your child to sort by shape, size, colour, or better yet , their interests . For example, if they are a dinosaur enthusiast, they could classify them by wh ich is their favourite or least favourite , or order them by the size of their feet. They may even find enjoyment in helping you with daily sorting such as recycling or washing!  

Puzzles are a fun resource that can be used with children from a very young age. There are a wide variety of puzzles for children to access , such as chunky wooden puzzles or traditional shape sorters. When playing with puzzles, children will have to use their prior knowledge and experience of shape, space and measure whil e also experimenting with different angles and placements. They will use trial and error to find the best way to complete the puzzle and then will use this knowledge in future attempts.  

6) Ice rescue

As well as being a great problem-solving activity, ice rescue enables children to explore seasonal changes, temperatures and develop their fine and gross motor skills using tools. To play ice rescue, freeze toys inside ice overnight. This could be in cake moulds or small bowls. Use toys that will motivate your child, for instance, their favourite small figurines.   

Once frozen, place your blocks of ice in a big bowl or tray, and encourage your child to think about how they can get the items out. You could provide tools, or even get your child to find tools themselves.  

7) Obstacle courses

Obstacle courses are versatile and can be made with a wide variety of resources. When setting up an obstacle course for your child, try to include sections where your child will have to stop and think about how they will have to adapt their body to move through it , for example, something that they must climb over or under, or a section where they have to move differently. You could even include them in trying to create the obstacle course and allow them to make it the most challenging they can.  

8) Filling, emptying and investigation

Many children enjoy filling and emptying during play. Investigating this way helps children to get a sense of size, capacity and explore predicting and estimation. For instance, if your child likes playing with sand, you could ask them to guess how many scoops they will need to fill a container, or if they like water play you could challenge them to find a way to move the water between two containers as quickly as possible , or from one tray to another.  

9) Story problems

Stories are an effective way of introducing problem-solving and they can be a highly engaging way to promote creative and critical-thinking. You could use familiar or traditional stories to help scaffold play opportunities for your child. For example, you could try building a house for the three little pigs that cannot be knocked over. You could test out different methods using materials that you can find around your home.   

If you are feeling creative, you could also make up a little story using your child’s favourite toys. An example of this could be figuring out how to share food between their favourite teddies during a picnic and making sure that everyone gets enough.   

10) Playing with loose parts or open-ended resources

Natural materials such as leaves, conkers, sticks, acorns, and pinecones are all brilliant open-ended play opportunities (if supervised). You can also use household objects like bottle caps, curtain rings, tubes, tins, boxes, buttons etcetera in this sort of play. All it requires is a tray of different objects that you've collected and time to explore them. Your child will have to think creatively about how to utilise the objects and in doing so will be challenging their cognitive capacity by problem-solving to achieve the desired outcomes.   

References 

[1]  Rachel Keen. (2011). The Development of Problem Solving in Young Children: A Critical Cognitive Skill. Available: https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/full/10.1146/annurev.psych.031809.130730#_i22 .  

[2] Sheila Ebbutt. (2009). EYFS best practice - All about ... problem-solving . Available: https://www.nurseryworld.co.uk/features/article/eyfs-best-practice-all-about-problem-solving .  

[3] Piaget, J. (1983). Piaget's Theory. In P. Mussen (ed). Handbook of Child Psychology. 4th edition. Vol. 1. New York: Wiley.  

[4] Unicef. (2018). Learning Through Play. Available: https://www.unicef.org/sites/default/files/2018-12/UNICEF-Lego-Foundation-Learning-through-Play.pd .  

[5] Kathy Sylva, Edward Melhuish, Pam Sammons, Iram Siraj-Blatchford and Brenda Taggar. (2004). The Effective Provision of Pre-School Education (EPPE) Project: Findings from Pre-school to end of Key Stage1. Available: https://dera.ioe.ac.uk/8543/7/SSU-SF-2004-01.pdf .  

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Problem Solving Activities for Children

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Problem Solving Activities for Preschoolers

Written by: Kokotree

Last updated: October 16, 2022

H ere are a bunch of great problem solving activities for preschoolers. Actions like these can help your child learn how to think critically and come up with solutions to problems. Plus, they’re lots of fun too!

What are problem solving activities?

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Problem-solving activities are interactive games or tasks designed to challenge children and promote their critical thinking, creativity, and decision-making skills. They often involve puzzles, matching games, pattern recognition, or role-playing scenarios. These activities encourage children, including toddlers and preschoolers, to identify problems, think of solutions, and test their ideas, ultimately enhancing their cognitive abilities and resilience.

Problem-solving is the process of reducing or eliminating the cause of a problem. When faced with a problem, your priority is determining whether it can be solved and, if so, how. You can then address the underlying cause(s) and restore order to your life.

Kids learn best when they’re having fun. Introducing them to problem-solving games like Shape Sorter, Traffic Jam, True or False Questions , or Feed the Monster is a great way to combine entertainment and learning. These games teach children about shapes, spatial reasoning, and matching, developing their problem-solving skills along the way.

Teaching preschoolers problem-solving skills can start with small, everyday choices like picking out their clothes or deciding on lunch. Open-ended questions like, “What do you think would happen if…?” can help them think through situations and explore possible outcomes.

Childcare providers can develop problem-solving abilities by promoting creativity and collaborative play. Materials like blocks, puzzles, and art supplies encourage kids to think creatively. Facilitating group preschool activities allows children to negotiate, communicate, and solve problems together. Outdoor play and exploration can also help kids learn from experiences, develop resilience, and embrace problem-solving.

Regular practice can turn problem-solving into a habit for kids. Include problem-solving tasks in their daily routine, such as figuring out how to clean up toys fastest or deciding the best order to do their homework. This practice will make them comfortable with problem-solving and help them apply these skills in other areas of their life.

Here’s a quick refresher on some critical steps to follow when you are trying to solve a problem:

• Identify the cause of the problem. If you can determine what caused the situation in the first place, it will be much easier to find a solution.
• Consider all possible solutions before making any decisions or taking action. This will help you avoid rash decisions and ensure that you are solving the root cause of the problem rather than simply addressing its symptoms.
• Take action and implement your solution as quickly as possible. Once you have identified a viable solution, don’t hesitate to take action and put it into practice right away. This will help you focus on finding a resolution and restoring order to your life.
• Evaluate the outcome of your solution and make any necessary adjustments. Even if you take action immediately, it is essential to step back and evaluate your results before moving forward. This will help you identify areas where further improvement is needed to solve problems effectively and efficiently.

If you follow these steps, you can effectively solve any problem that comes your way. Whether it’s a minor issue or something more complex, by taking the time to understand and address its underlying cause, you can restore order to your life and get back on track.

Here’s a list of problem-solving games for preschoolers:

Shape Sorter — This game involves a container with different shaped holes and a set of blocks with different shapes. The child must figure out which shape block fits into which hole.

Traffic Jam —This game involves a set of cars and a board with a picture of a traffic jam. The child must figure out how to move the cars around to clear the traffic jam.

Feed the Monster —This game involves a board with a picture of a monster and a set of different shaped food pieces. The child must figure out which food pieces the monster will eat by matching the shape of the food to the shape of the monster’s mouth.

Puzzle matching —This game involves a set of puzzles with different pictures, the child must match each puzzle piece to complete the picture

Color Mixing —This game involves a set of color cards, the child must mix and match the cards to form new color

Memory Match —This game involves a set of cards with pictures or patterns on one side and a blank on the other. The child must remember the location of the cards and match the pairs.

Connect the dots —This game involves a picture with numbers on it. The child must connect the dots in numerical order to reveal the picture.

Tangram —This game involves a set of seven flat pieces that can be arranged to form a square or other geometric shapes. The child must figure out how to arrange the pieces to form the correct shape.

These games are designed to be fun and engaging while helping preschoolers to develop problem-solving skills.

Provide opportunities for your child to practice making decisions, such as choosing between two choices, asking them open-ended questions, giving them simple tasks, being a role model, and identifying different parts of a problem. Reading books is also a great way to strengthen problem-solving skills.

Ask your child to choose between two outfits or what to have for lunch . As your child ages, expand on these experiences by having them choose between more than two options.

Another way to help your preschooler learn problem-solving skills is to ask open-ended questions . Questions like “What do you think would happen if…?” or “How could you fix that?” give your child an opportunity to explore options and come up with a solution.

Providing your child with simple tasks to complete independently is another way to help her build problem-solving skills. Ask your child for help picking out a shirt for school or deciding what’s for dinner, and then allow him to try it on his own or figure out how to prepare the meal.

Besides providing opportunities for your child to practice problem-solving skills, you can also help by being a role model . Show your child how to take on challenges or look at things from new perspectives. Thinking through problems and navigating solutions is a valuable skill that will serve your child well throughout life.

You can also help your child to develop problem-solving skills by teaching them how to identify different parts of a problem and brainstorm possible solutions . As your child gains experience with solving problems, they will become more confident and better equipped to handle whatever life throws their way.

How do you promote problem-solving in childcare?

As a parent, you want to ensure that your child has all the tools to succeed. One of the most critical skills is problem-solving, and here are a few ways to promote problem-solving for preschoolers.

One way to promote problem-solving in childcare is to encourage creativity . This can be done by providing materials that can be used in various ways, such as blocks, puzzles, and art supplies. It is also essential to allow children the time and space to explore and experiment with these materials.

Another way to promote problem-solving in childcare is to encourage collaboration. This can be done by planning activities that require children to work together, such as building towers out of blocks or putting together puzzles. Providing opportunities for children to practice communication and negotiation skills is also essential.

Another critical aspect of promoting problem-solving in childcare is to provide opportunities for exploration and discovery. This can be done by encouraging children to play outside, engage with nature, or explore different materials and textures. It is also essential to allow children the space and freedom to experiment, make mistakes, take risks, and learn from their experiences.

It is also important to model and discuss different approaches to solving problems to promote problem-solving in childcare. You can do this by providing real-life examples of children’s challenges, such as conflicts with friends or frustrations with a difficult task.

It is also essential to talk with children about different ways they could explore and approach these situations, such as brainstorming possible solutions or taking a break to regroup.

Additionally, you can provide children with tools for reflection and self-evaluation, such as journaling prompts or goal-setting exercises. By providing these opportunities and resources, you can support children in developing problem-solving skills and strategies they can use throughout their lives.

Ask open-ended questions, such as “What do you think will happen if we put this block on top of that one?”

Providing opportunities for children to experiment and make mistakes is also essential. For example, you could encourage children to try a new activity or game and then talk with them about how it went and how they might change their approach next time. This can help children get in the habit of learning from their experiences and thinking creatively about ways to solve problems.

In addition to encouraging critical thinking and trial and error, it is vital to provide opportunities for reflection and self-evaluation. Set aside quiet time for children to think about their experiences or journal about them.

You could also encourage children to set goals for themselves and reflect on how they are progressing toward them. By providing these opportunities, you can help children build the skills to recognize problems, evaluate possible solutions, and develop creative approaches that work best for them.

Praise effort and encourage children to keep trying when they encounter difficulty. Providing opportunities for children to practice problem-solving skills in a safe and supportive environment is also essential.

Demonstrate how to solve problems calmly and patiently by offering help when needed but not doing the work for the child. It is also essential to provide opportunities for children to see adults solving problems in their everyday lives.

Model positive communication skills and encourage children to share their ideas and feelings with others. Providing opportunities for children to work together on tasks or projects is also essential.

Teach them about different emotions and how they are expressed. Provide opportunities for children to practice recognizing and managing emotions.

Teach them about setbacks and how to cope with them. Providing opportunities for children to practice problem-solving skills in a safe and supportive environment is also essential.

What are the five problem-solving skills?

Like most parents, you want to see your child succeed in everything they do. One crucial way to help them succeed is to give them the skills they need to solve problems. Here are five problem-solving skills that every child should learn: 

One of the most critical skills in problem-solving is the ability to define the problem clearly. This may seem simple, but it cannot be easy. People will frequently try to solve a problem before taking the time to understand the problem. This can lead to a lot of wasted effort and frustration.

Once you have a clear understanding of the problem, the next step is to generate possible solutions. This requires creative thinking and brainstorming. It is crucial to come up with as many possible solutions as possible, even if some seem far-fetched or impossible. The goal is to get your creative juices flowing so that you can eventually find a workable solution.

After you have generated a list of possible solutions, it is time to evaluate each one. This evaluation should be based on criteria specific to the problem at hand. For example, suppose you are trying to solve a financial situation. In that case, you will want to evaluate solutions based on their economic feasibility. Suppose you are trying to solve a personal relationship issue. In that case, you will want to consider solutions based on their potential impact on your relationship.

Once you have evaluated all possible solutions, it is time to select the best one. This selection should be based on the criteria you established in the previous step. Choosing a solution you are confident will solve the problem at hand is essential. Otherwise, you will end up with another issue that needs to be solved.

The final step in problem-solving is implementation, which means putting the chosen solution into action. This step will require some planning and effort, but it is necessary for the answer to work. If you do not implement the solution properly, the problem will likely persist or worsen.

Thirteen problem solving activities for preschoolers.

One problem-solving activity for preschoolers is sorting. This can be done with various materials, such as buttons, blocks, or food.

You could give your child a mixture of colored buttons and ask them to sort them by color. This activity helps to develop critical thinking skills by requiring the child to identify similarities and differences.

Patterning is another critical thinking activity for preschoolers . This can be done with various materials, such as beads, blocks, or crayons.

You could give your child a string of beads and ask them to create a pattern. This activity helps to develop critical thinking skills by requiring the child to identify patterns and replicate them.

Classifying is another critical thinking activity for preschoolers. This can be done with various materials, such as rocks, leaves, or toys.

You could give your child a selection of rocks and ask them to classify them by size, shape , or color. This activity helps to develop critical thinking skills by requiring the child to identify similarities and differences.

Counting is another critical thinking activity for preschoolers. This can be done with various materials, such as pennies, pieces of candy, or even cars on the street.

You could ask your child to count how many cars are parked on your street. This activity helps to develop critical thinking skills by requiring the child to identify quantities.

Comparing is another critical thinking activity for preschoolers. This can be done with various materials, such as apples, oranges, or crayons.

You could ask your child to compare two apples and identify which one is larger or redder. This activity helps to develop critical thinking skills by requiring the child to identify similarities and differences.

Inventing stories is another great critical thinking activity for preschoolers. This can be done with various materials, such as playdough , crayons, or stuffed animals.

You could give your child a few items and ask them to invent a story about what they might be doing or where they might have come from. This activity helps to develop critical thinking skills by requiring the child to use their imagination and think creatively.

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Creative drawing is another tremendous critical thinking activity for preschoolers. This can be done with various materials, such as drawing paper, markers, or even chalk on the sidewalk.

You could give your child a piece of drawing paper and ask them to draw whatever they want. This activity helps to develop critical thinking skills by requiring the child to think creatively and express themselves artistically.

Role-playing is another tremendous critical thinking activity for preschoolers. This can be done with various materials, such as dolls, stuffed animals, or household items like pots and pans.

You could give your child some dolls or stuffed animals and ask them to act out a scene from their favorite book or TV show together. This activity helps develop critical thinking skills by requiring the child to think critically about situations and develop creative solutions.

Making connections is another critical thinking activity for preschoolers. This can be done with various materials, such as books or movies.

You could give your child a book and ask them to connect it to something they’ve read or seen in the past. This activity helps to develop critical thinking skills by requiring the child to think critically about different topics and make connections between them.

Asking questions is another great critical thinking activity for preschoolers . This can be done with various materials, such as toy people or stuffed animals.

You could give your child some toy people and ask them to create their own story about what might have happened before the toys came in from the playground.

This activity helps develop critical thinking skills by requiring the child to think critically about different situations and ask many questions.

Another way to help your child develop critical thinking skills is to have them put things in sequence.

You could give them a stack of cards with numbers and have them put the cards in order from smallest to largest. This activity will help your child learn to order objects according to a specific criterion.

Analogies are another great way to help your child develop critical thinking skills. An analogy is when two things are compared because they share similar characteristics.

You could say that “a cat is like a dog because they are both animals” or “a chair is like a table because they are both furniture items.” This activity will help your child learn to see relationships between different things and understand how some of them might be similar to one another.

Illusions are another great way to help your child develop critical thinking skills. An illusion tricks the senses, such as a picture that looks moving or an object that looks bigger than it is.

For example, you could show your child a pencil and paper bag and ask them why they think the pencil seems to disappear when it goes inside the pack. This activity will help your child learn to pay attention to details and notice when things seem out of place or don’t quite make sense.

Yes. Puzzle games help preschoolers develop essential skills such as pattern recognition, planning, and spatial awareness. As they play, preschoolers learn to think creatively and persevere when facing challenges.

Puzzle games can also help to improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. And because they are enjoyable to play, puzzle games can help to motivate preschoolers to keep practicing and improving their skills.

Preschoolers should have at most 1 hour of screen time a day. If you allow them to play video games, make sure they are high-quality and age-appropriate educational games. Playstation, Xbox, and other popular gaming consoles may be challenging since they have many buttons. Ideally, you can find mobile games for iPhone, iPad, and android devices.

If they are not educational, your child probably isn’t getting much benefit from them at this age other than entertainment and giving you a break. Games requiring fast reactions or flashy graphics and loud music aren’t appropriate for preschoolers.

Consider playing the game with your preschooler to help them understand it better and to offer guidance when needed.

Overall, preschoolers have many great critical thinking activities that can help them develop essential skills. These activities include role-playing, making connections, asking questions, sequencing, analogies, illusions, and many others.

By engaging your child in these activities regularly, you can help them develop critical thinking skills that will serve them well throughout their life.

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Building Problem-Solving Skills for Preschoolers

Definition and significance of problem-solving skills in preschoolers, overview of typical problem-solving scenarios for preschoolers, math problem-solving activities for preschoolers, creative problem-solving games and activities, utilizing problem-solving cards for interactive learning, how to teach problem-solving to preschoolers effectively, incorporating problem-solving steps into everyday activities, role of adults in facilitating problem-solving skills, recommended problem-solving books for preschoolers, reputable online resources, using problem-solving worksheets as a learning tool, real-life problem-solving scenarios for preschoolers to navigate.

In the early years of childhood development, problem-solving skills are foundational to cognitive growth and practical learning. This article explores engaging activities, scenarios, and resources designed to foster these critical skills in young learners. Through a variety of methods, including interactive games, math activities, and educational books, preschoolers can develop the ability to navigate challenges, leading to enhanced learning experiences and a solid foundation for future academic success.

To cultivate these essential skills in your preschooler and lay a strong foundation for their future, explore the wealth of problem-solving activities, games, and resources available. Embrace the joy of learning together and watch as your child’s problem-solving abilities flourish. Begin this exciting journey now and open a world of possibilities for your little learner!

Understanding Problem-Solving for Preschoolers

Problem-solving skills in preschoolers refer to their ability to understand a problem, think through solutions, and execute a plan to overcome it. This capability is vital for their cognitive development and helps in navigating daily challenges. Preschoolers encounter problem-solving scenarios in various forms, such as puzzles, social interactions, and play activities, where they learn to make decisions, analyze outcomes, and adapt to new situations. Engaging them in targeted problem-solving activities and games can significantly enhance these skills, preparing them for future more complex tasks and decision-making processes.

Preschoolers encounter various problem-solving scenarios daily, which are crucial for their cognitive, social, and emotional development. These scenarios typically involve challenges or situations that require them to analyze, make decisions, and find solutions. Here’s an overview of common types of problem-solving situations preschoolers might face:

• Social Interactions: Learning to share toys, taking turns, and resolving conflicts with peers are common problems requiring negotiation and empathy.
• Self-care Tasks: Dressing themselves, tying shoelaces, or managing basic hygiene tasks demand practical problem-solving skills and fine motor coordination.
• Academic Challenges: Simple puzzles, building blocks, and age-appropriate educational games encourage critical thinking, pattern recognition, and logical reasoning.
• Emotional Regulation: Identifying and managing their feelings, like frustration or sadness, when things don’t go as planned, teaching them to find constructive solutions.
• Environmental Navigation: Overcoming physical obstacles, like reaching a high shelf or navigating a new play area, requires spatial awareness and physical judgment.

Problem-Solving Activities for Preschoolers

Math problem-solving activities for preschoolers should be engaging and hands-on, helping them understand basic mathematical concepts through play and exploration. Here’s a list of activities designed to enhance their math problem-solving skills:

• Sorting and Categorizing: Children sort objects by color, size, shape, or type, which develops their ability to recognize patterns and categories.
• Counting Games: Using toys, beads, or blocks to count aloud helps preschoolers understand numbers and quantity.
• Simple Puzzles: Completing puzzles with different shapes and sizes teaches spatial awareness and geometric concepts.
• Matching Activities: Pairing matching items or numbers with corresponding groups of objects enhances number recognition and counting skills.
• Shape Hunts: Finding objects of specific shapes in their environment helps children identify and classify geometric shapes.
• Measurement Activities: Using rulers, measuring tapes, or comparing objects directly teaches basic measurement and comparison skills.
• Number Stories: Creating simple stories that involve addition or subtraction helps in understanding basic arithmetic operations.
• Pattern Making: Using colored blocks or beads to create and extend patterns teaches sequencing and predictive logic.

Creative problem-solving activities encourage thinking outside the box and foster innovation. Here are some games and activities that can help develop these skills:

• Story Building: Participants add to a story one sentence at a time, promoting creative thinking and collaborative storytelling.
• Invention Scramble: Children use random objects to create a new invention, encouraging imaginative thinking and resourcefulness.
• Obstacle Course: Setting up an obstacle course with specific challenges requires planning and strategy to navigate.
• Riddle Solving: Engaging in riddles and brain teasers enhances critical thinking and comprehension skills.
• Building Challenges: Using blocks or LEGO, children are tasked with constructing a structure based on a theme or specific requirements.
• Role-Playing Games: Children take on different roles and scenarios, promoting empathy and creative problem-solving in social situations.
• Art Projects: Encouraging free-form art or specific thematic projects helps in exploring creativity and expressing ideas visually.
• Treasure Hunts: Organizing a treasure hunt with clues and challenges promotes logical reasoning and teamwork.

Problem-solving cards are a versatile tool that can be used to promote interactive learning. They typically feature scenarios, questions, or challenges that prompt learners to think critically and develop solutions. Here’s how they can be used effectively:

• Scenario-Based Learning: Cards can present real-life situations that require learners to apply knowledge and critical thinking to solve problems.
• Group Discussions: Using cards to initiate group discussions encourages collaboration and the sharing of diverse perspectives.
• Role-Playing Activities : Cards can set up role-playing exercises where learners must navigate and resolve conflicts or challenges.
• Game-Based Learning: Incorporating cards into games can make learning fun and competitive, motivating learners to engage more deeply with the content.
• Skill Development Workshops: Cards can be used in workshops to practice specific skills, such as negotiation, decision-making, or creative thinking.

List of Necessary Elements for Utilizing Problem-Solving Cards

To effectively use problem-solving cards in interactive learning, certain elements are necessary:

• Varied and Relevant Content: Cards should cover various topics and scenarios relevant to the learners’ experiences and learning objectives.
• Clear and Concise Instructions: Each card should have clear, concise instructions to ensure learners understand the problem or task.
• Adaptability: Cards should be versatile enough to be used in different teaching methods and learning environments, whether in-person or online.
• Interactive Design: Engaging visuals and interactive elements on the cards can enhance the learning experience.
• Feedback Mechanism: Incorporating a way to provide feedback on the solutions or discussions generated from the cards helps in assessing understanding and progress.
• Scalability: The difficulty level of the cards should be scalable to cater to different skill levels and learning stages.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Content on the cards should be culturally sensitive and inclusive, reflecting diverse perspectives and experiences.
• Supplementary Materials: Providing additional resources or information related to the scenarios on the cards can deepen understanding and extend learning.

Teaching Strategies

Teaching problem-solving to preschoolers is about guiding them to think independently, make decisions, and learn from outcomes. Here’s how educators and parents can effectively teach problem-solving skills to preschoolers:

• Model Problem-Solving Behavior: Demonstrate how to approach problems calmly and thoughtfully, talking through the process out loud.
• Create a Safe Learning Environment: Ensure that the environment is supportive and non-judgmental, allowing children to explore solutions without fear of failure.
• Encourage Exploration and Play: Through play, children can experiment with different solutions and learn from trial and error.
• Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage thinking by asking questions that have no single right answer, prompting children to explore various possibilities.
• Facilitate, Don’t Solve: Guide children through the problem-solving process, helping them think of solutions, rather than providing answers.
• Use Storytelling: Stories can introduce problems in a relatable context, encouraging children to come up with creative solutions.
• Encourage Teamwork: Group activities can teach children how to collaborate, share ideas, and solve problems together.
• Teach Emotional Regulation: Help children recognize and manage their emotions, which is a critical part of solving problems effectively.

List of Necessary Elements for Teaching Problem-Solving to Preschoolers

To teach problem-solving effectively to preschoolers, certain elements are necessary:

• Patience and Time: Problem-solving skills develop over time, requiring patience and practice.
• Age-Appropriate Challenges: Problems should be relevant and challenging but achievable for their developmental stage.
• Variety of Materials: Provide diverse materials and resources to stimulate creative thinking and problem-solving.
• Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate successes and encourage perseverance, reinforcing the value of effort and learning from mistakes.
• Consistent Opportunities: Regularly integrate problem-solving activities into daily routines and learning experiences.
• Clear Guidance and Support: Offer clear instructions and support to help children understand the problem-solving process.
• Reflective Practice: Encourage children to reflect on the problem-solving process and outcomes to enhance learning.
• Cultural and Contextual Relevance: Ensure problems and scenarios are culturally relevant and relatable to the children’s experiences.

Incorporating problem-solving steps into everyday activities offers a practical and seamless way to enhance critical thinking skills. This approach involves identifying daily tasks or challenges and using them as opportunities to practice problem-solving. 

For instance, during meal preparation, children can be involved in deciding what to cook, which ingredients are needed, and how to follow the recipe. This engages them in decision-making, sequencing, and logical thinking. 

Similarly, when faced with conflicts or decisions, guiding children through identifying the issue, brainstorming possible solutions, evaluating these options, and then implementing and reflecting on the outcome can be very effective. This method makes problem-solving a natural part of daily life and helps children learn to apply these skills autonomously, preparing them for more complex challenges as they grow.

Adults play a crucial role in facilitating problem-solving skills among children by acting as guides, models, and supporters. They set the stage for learning by providing appropriate challenges and resources that encourage critical thinking and experimentation. 

Through modeling problem-solving behavior—like verbalizing thought processes, showing how to evaluate options, and demonstrating persistence in the face of difficulties—adults provide a blueprint for children to follow. They also create a safe environment where children feel free to explore solutions without fear of judgment, offering guidance and encouragement rather than solutions, which promotes independence and confidence. 

Additionally, by asking open-ended questions, adults can stimulate children’s thought processes and encourage them to see problems from different angles, further developing their critical thinking and decision-making skills. Adults are vital in nurturing an atmosphere where problem-solving can thrive, guiding children to become proficient problem-solvers.

Educational Resources

Books can be a fantastic resource for developing problem-solving skills in preschoolers. Here are some highly recommended titles that engage young readers in the art of problem-solving:

• “Rosie Revere, Engineer” by Andrea Beaty: This book encourages innovation and perseverance, showing that failure is just a step towards success.
• “Curious George” series by H.A. Rey: The adventures of Curious George teach problem-solving and curiosity, as the little monkey often finds himself in tricky situations that require clever solutions.
• “The Most Magnificent Thing” by Ashley Spires: This story is about a girl who learns about frustration and perseverance while trying to create something magnificent.
• “Ish” by Peter H. Reynolds: Reynolds’ book teaches children that thinking “ish-ly” is more important than perfection, encouraging creative problem-solving.
• “Not a Box” by Antoinette Portis: This book stimulates imagination and creativity, showing how a simple box can be much more through innovative thinking.
• “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds: Another book by Reynolds, it inspires children to start small and see where their imagination and problem-solving can take them.
• “What Do You Do With a Problem?” by Kobi Yamada: This book personifies problems as opportunities to learn and grow, teaching children to face challenges head-on.
• “Beautiful Oops!” by Barney Saltzberg: Saltzberg’s book encourages finding beauty in mistakes and learning from them, promoting a positive attitude towards problem-solving.

Here’s a list of reputable online resources that provide valuable content on teaching problem-solving skills to preschoolers, including activities, strategies, and educational insights:

• NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) : Offers a wealth of resources on early childhood development, including articles and tips on promoting problem-solving skills. 
• Teaching Strategies : Offers innovative, research-based teaching methods and resources for early childhood educators to enhance problem-solving skills in preschoolers. 
• Education.com : Contains a wide range of problem-solving activities, worksheets, and games tailored for preschool-aged children.

These websites are well-regarded in the field of early childhood education and provide a range of tools and insights for effectively teaching problem-solving skills to preschoolers.

Problem-solving worksheets are an effective learning tool for developing critical thinking and analytical skills. They provide structured opportunities for students to practice and refine their approach to solving various types of problems.

List of Necessary Elements for Problem-Solving Worksheets

For problem-solving worksheets to be an effective learning tool, they should include:

• Clear Instructions: Directions should be concise and easy to understand, ensuring students know what is expected.
• Relevant Content: Problems should be age-appropriate and connected to real-world situations to enhance relevance and engagement.
• Structured Approach: Worksheets should guide students through the problem-solving process, possibly outlining steps like understanding the problem, devising a plan, carrying out the plan, and reviewing the solution.
• Variety in Problem Types: Including different types of problems, such as puzzles, logic problems, and word problems, can cater to various learning styles and interests.
• Space for Workings: Providing ample space for students to write down their thought processes and calculations is important for developing their ability to solve problems systematically.
• Engaging Design: Visually appealing worksheets with illustrations or graphics can motivate students and enhance their learning experience.

Practical Application

Preschoolers can learn valuable problem-solving skills through real-life scenarios they can relate to and navigate. Here’s a list of scenarios that can help preschoolers develop and practice these skills:

• Sharing Toys: Navigating how to share toys with siblings or friends, deciding who plays with what, and for how long.
• Dressing for the Weather: Choosing appropriate clothing for the day based on the weather conditions, like selecting a raincoat on a rainy day or a sunhat when it’s sunny.
• Meal Choices: Making decisions about what to eat for snacks or meals, balancing between healthy options and favorite treats.
• Cleaning Up: Figuring out how to organize and clean up toys and supplies efficiently after playtime.
• Lost Items: Developing strategies to find a lost toy or belonging, retracing steps, and thinking of places where it could be.
• Turn-taking Games: Learning to wait for a turn and cope with the delay in gratification during group games or activities.
• Building Structures: Deciding how to build a stable structure using blocks or other materials, which involves planning and adjusting techniques.
• Resolving Conflicts : Finding peaceful solutions to disputes with peers, like taking turns, sharing, or finding a compromise.
• Planning a Playdate: Participating in planning activities, considering what games to play and what snacks to have.
• Handling Emotions: Identifying and managing emotions when things don’t go as planned, such as calming down after a disappointment.

Nurturing problem-solving skills from a young age is beneficial and crucial for children’s cognitive and emotional development. As detailed in this article, integrating problem-solving activities into the daily routines of preschoolers can significantly enhance their ability to navigate and overcome challenges, fostering independence, creativity, and resilience. 

Therefore, parents, educators, and caregivers must incorporate a variety of problem-solving activities into their interactions with young learners. From math games to social scenarios and creative play, every moment can be an opportunity to develop these vital skills. Let’s embrace the joy and responsibility of guiding our preschoolers through their problem-solving journey, equipping them with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. Encourage, facilitate, and revel in the process of discovery, and watch as the seeds of today’s problem-solving activities blossom into the critical thinking abilities of tomorrow.

Empower your little scholar with the gift of problem-solving! Join us at Little Scholars Daycare, where we turn everyday moments into exciting learning opportunities. Enroll your child today and watch them grow into confident, creative problem-solvers ready to take on the world!

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If your child has a tendency to overreact to the problems he or she faces each day, these size of the problem activities for kids will help!

Whether we realize it or not, much of our day is spent problem solving. Some of the problems we encounter are of our own doing, like over-sleeping or spilling a glass of water, but many of the challenges we face are either caused by others or just plain bad luck. Our inability to control these situations can be challenging, but learning how to handle our emotions in the face of things that unexpectedly happen to us can be incredibly helpful. Learning how to identify if a problem is small, medium, or big, and then regulating our emotions to ensure our reaction matches the size of the problems presented to us helps us stay calm and strategize more effectively. Keeping our emotions and reactions in check also prevents further problems and conflicts from arising, which is an important life skill for children to learn.

‘Size of the problem’ is a social skills concept designed to help kids evaluate how big or small the problems they encounter are, and how to choose their reactions accordingly. Keep reading for more problem-solving tips and size of the problem activities for kids!

‘Size of the Problem’ 101

The problems we encounter tend to fall into 3 main buckets:

Small problems are things we can usually solve on our own, and usually only result in a small reaction (or no reaction at all). Examples of small problems include breaking a pencil, not getting to stand at the front of the line at recess, or having someone bump into you at the grocery store.

Medium problems are those that require thought and help from others (usually a parent or teacher) to solve, and they usually result in a medium-sized reaction like crying, whining, saying the word ‘ouch!’, etc. Examples of medium problems include forgetting your homework, spilling a glass of milk, having a headache, and getting into a fight with a friend.

Big problems are serious events that require help from many people, including doctors, policemen, fire fighters, etc. Big problems warrant big reactions like screaming, yelling, crying, running away, etc. Examples of big problems include being really sick, breaking a bone, getting into a car accident, a house fire, losing a loved one, etc.

A great first step in teaching size of the problem to kids is to create a visual 3-point scale together. Explain what makes a problem small, medium, or big, and the appropriate reactions for each. Help your child recall different scenarios he or she has encountered for each bucket, and discuss whether he or she reacted appropriately. This blank size of the problem template on Teachers Pay Teachers is a great tool to use for this activity, and it comes with sample problem cards to assist with your discussion.

Learning how to match our reactions to the size of our problems takes time and practice. Once your child begins to grasp the idea that different emotions and reactions are expected for different sized problems, there are tons of fantastic size of the problem activities you can use to reinforce this concept, and we’re excited to share 8 of our favourites below!

8 Size of the Problem Activities for Kids

Problem Sizes, Emotions, and Reactions Teachers Pay Teachers Designed for kids in elementary school, this comprehensive bundle helps kids understand the importance of matching their emotional reaction to the size of the problems they encounter. The activities in this set also address over-reactions and under-reactions, and can be used in small groups or as a large class lesson.

Size of the Problem Activities | Teachers Pay Teachers If you’re looking for an all-in-one size of the problem activities pack you can use in the classroom, in therapy, or at home, I highly recommend this bundle! It comes complete with posters and visuals, as well as problem and reaction scenario cards, glyph worksheets and task cards, cut and paste worksheets, and journal scenario pages.

Size of the Problem BINGO | Teachers Pay Teachers One of the best ways to teach kids is through play, and this is by far one of my favorite size of the problem activities for kids! With 20 BINGO cards included, this is a great classroom or small group activity.

Size Of The Problem Scoot Game | Teachers Pay Teachers Perfect for kids in grades 2-4, these scenarios will get kids on their feet and moving around as they practice distinguishing between small, medium, and big problems.

Size of the Problem Puzzles | Teachers Pay Teachers If you’re looking for size of the problem activities for kids in grades 3-5, this bundle comes with 2 sets of 18 puzzles in which kids match each problem scenario to the size of the problem/reaction. This is a great group activity, and encourages kids to consider their own problems and if their reactions to them are appropriate.

Size Of The Problem Google Slides & Boom Cards | Teachers Pay Teachers If you’re looking for no-prep size of the problem activities kids can complete online, this is a great bundle to consider. Students are presented with different scenarios and drag and drop them into the correct size of the problem boxes.

Interactive Emotional Regulation Worksheets | Teachers Pay Teachers If you’re looking for size of the problem activities for kids on the autism spectrum, this bundle has 2 social stories, a coloring page, a cut and paste activity, interactive worksheets, and problem situation cards.

Conflict Resolution Game | Counselor Keri If you’re looking for games you can use with your kids or students to help them practice multiple social thinking skills at one go, this is a great option to consider! This conflict resolution game helps kids practice identifying the size of the problem and corresponding emotions, using calming strategies and assertive communication, and finding positive solutions to conflicts.

If your children and/or students struggle to distinguish between small, medium, and large problems – and the appropriate reactions for each – I hope this collection of size of the problem activities and games for kids proves useful to you!

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Problem Solving Activities For Kids

Helping kids become problem-solvers is vital to raising independent, critical thinkers. let’s dive into why starting early matters and share some problem solving activities for kids you can try at home..

Problem-solving skills help children navigate daily challenges, from academic to personal relationships. Developing their problem-solving abilities is crucial to foster their adaptability, resourcefulness, and resilience. The steps involved in problem-solving are:

• Defining the problem
• Considering the possible solutions to that problem
• Weighing up solutions and selecting the most appropriate solution
• Implementing these solutions and assessing their outcomes

Problem solving skills better equip children to handle the complexities of the world around them. Developing problem-solving skills can boost creativity, adaptability, and the ability to remain composed under pressure. By nurturing these abilities, you empower your child to become a self-assured and capable adult. Kids need to learn these skills while their brain is developing and while learning is the fastest, easiest and most enjoyable.

Introducing problem-solving activities for kids at a young age:

Fosters critical thinking: Problem-solving activities help children analyse situations, identify possible solutions, and evaluate the best course of action, enhancing their critical thinking abilities.

Builds self-confidence: When children successfully solve problems, they gain a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence in their ability to tackle challenges.

Encourages creativity: Problem-solving often requires thinking outside the box, which nurtures a child’s imagination and creativity.

Enhances communication and collaboration: Many problem-solving activities involve working with others, helping children develop essential communication and teamwork skills.

Promotes adaptability and resilience: Problem-solving teaches children to cope with obstacles and adapt to new situations, fostering resilience and flexibility.

You can introduce problem-solving activities to children as young as 6 months of age. You’ll find a range of activities for babies and problem solving activities for 3-5 year olds and older. 

Tangram Puzzles

Tangram puzzles are traditional Chinese dissection puzzles made up of seven flat geometric pieces called tans. They can be used to create various shapes, such as animals, people, letters, and other objects. Tangram puzzles are super versatile and a great problem-solving activity for preschoolers, toddlers and older kids. Assembling a tangram puzzle can be challenging, teaching children to be persistent, patient, and focused on finding solutions.

Try our Cho Cho Ban tangram puzzle. The idea is to fit all the pieces onto a given shape without leaving any gaps or overlapping them. As your child grows, the puzzles become more challenging, providing an excellent way to enhance their cognitive and problem-solving skills. The product is versatile and can adapt to the child’s age and level, making it an excellent long-term investment. With the hardest puzzles incorporating all seven polygons, even adults can enjoy the challenge and have a lot of fun!

The Lego Challenge

The lego challenge is a fun problem solving activity for preschoolers and older kids. Give your child a random assortment of Lego bricks and present them with a specific building challenge, such as creating a bridge, a tower, or an animal. This activity promotes creativity, encourages out-of-the-box thinking, and hones spatial reasoning skills. Increase the challenge level by adding a time limit to the build as well.

Treasure Hunt

Get creative with problem-solving games for kids and design a treasure hunt for your child, complete with clues, riddles, or puzzles to solve. This activity requires problem-solving skills and helps develop reading comprehension and navigation abilities.

Memory Games

Memory problem solving games for kids , such as matching pairs of cards or recalling a sequence of objects, help children improve their concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills. They can also be easily adapted to suit different ages and interests.

Cause and Effect Exploration (6 months old):

Provide your baby with age-appropriate toys or household items that create a noticeable effect when manipulated, such as a rattle, a soft squeaky toy, or a small container with a lid. 

Encourage your baby to explore these items and observe the effects of their actions, like shaking the rattle to produce noise or opening and closing the container’s lid. This activity helps babies develop an understanding of cause and effect relationships, laying the foundation for problem-solving skills.

Stacking and Nesting Cup (6 months old):

Give your baby a set of stacking cups . Show them how to stack the cups on top of one another or nest them inside each other. This activity helps develop hand-eye coordination and problem-solving abilities as they figure out how to manipulate the cups and understand their relative sizes.

DIY Obstacle Course

Create a home obstacle course using furniture, pillows, and other household items. Encourage your child to navigate through the course, overcoming obstacles and challenges along the way. This activity fosters physical coordination, spatial awareness, and strategic thinking.

Storytelling Challenge

This problem-solving storytelling activity promotes creative thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving as children must figure out how to incorporate unrelated objects into a coherent and engaging story.

You’ll need a collection of random household items (e.g., a spoon, a toy car, a book, a hat, etc.)

How to play:

• Choose a few items (3-5) from the collection and lay them out before your child.
• Explain that the goal is to create a story involving all the displayed items.
• Start the story by giving a basic scenario, like “Once upon a time, in a small village, there lived a clever cat named Fluffy.”
• Encourage your child to continue the story by incorporating the items individually, using their imagination and problem-solving skills to find creative ways to include each object in the narrative.
• Take turns with your child, adding to the story and using the items as you progress. You can provide guidance or ask questions to help them brainstorm ideas for incorporating the objects.
• After the story is complete, discuss your child’s creative solutions to include the items in the narrative and praise their problem-solving efforts.

“What Would You Do?” Scenarios

Present your child with hypothetical scenarios that require them to think critically and come up with solutions. For example, ask them what they would do if they were lost in a grocery store or if they found a lost pet. This activity encourages critical thinking, decision-making, and helps children understand real-life situations and consequences.

Board Games and Strategy Games

Board games and strategy games, such as chess, checkers, or Monopoly, offer a fun and engaging way for older children to develop their problem-solving skills. These games teach kids about planning, decision-making, and adapting to changing circumstances.

Group Problem Solving Activities

Organise group activities with your child and their friends, such as a group puzzle, escape room-style challenges, or collaborative building projects. These activities promote teamwork, communication, and collective problem-solving.

Shichida Australia offers a gateway to problem solving by introducing your child to a range of age-appropriate problem solving activities. 

We provide more straightforward tasks like shape puzzles, stacking games, and sorting exercises for the little ones. As for older kids and those eager for a challenge, we give trickier options like tangram puzzles, worksheets, and mazes. Discover more about Shichida Australia early learning program today.

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Join us for an engaging and interactive trial class, and see why so many people choose the Shichida method of education for their children.

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