Problem solving skills are a key part of a child’s natural development. As they discover new things, experiences and more, a child is able to pick apart situations and solve the issues within them. It can be a really simple thing, like learning how to not spill over their drink, to more complex decisions later on in life like resolving an argument. In this guide we explore the ways children can develop their problem solving skills from the advice of this prep school in East Sussex.
Give them plenty of ways to grow
Developing a child’s skills is more than just the same activities each week, it’s about finding multiple ways to develop their skills. Encourage your child to try lots of different activities and games to test their thought processes. You’d be surprised at how many different ways can improve a child’s problem solving – from heading out on their scooter, to playing catch with their friends.
Ask your child plenty of questions
When out in public, ask your child what they think of certain things they come into contact with. If they see a problem happening in front of them, ask your child what they would have done in that situation. Maintaining open conversations with your child will help them know when they can use their thinking caps and how they can manage their skills the next time they come across a problem in public.
Let them figure things out
From the moment your child breaks a toy by accident, through to when they’re managing problems faced in their homework, try to let them figure out what the solution could be. Allowing your child to think about their next steps helps them work out how they can focus for next time, and helps them to build their decision making skills.