From time to time, we face situations that require us to think and make decisions. We have to solve problems, big or small, in our everyday lives. Good problem-solving skills are crucial in managing our lives.
Children also face the same situation. As young as they are, they should practice their problem-solving skills for their overall childhood development in Riverside, California. Parents typically have the responsibility of teaching their kids about these skills.
Why are problem-solving skills important to kids?
From having difficulties with their studies in early childhood education in Riverside, California to struggling with extra-curricular activities, your kids will surely face problems they need to solve. Without good problem-solving skills, children may tend to avoid taking any action. This attitude can remain with them when they grow up.
For instance, instead of thinking of ways on how to make up with their playmates after a confrontation, they may end up avoiding them altogether. As a result, they struggle with maintaining personal relationships.
What can parents do?
There are several pointers you need to keep in mind to help your children develop problem-solving skills. Here are some of them:
- Help them figure out what the real problem is.
It can be quite overwhelming for kids to face their problems. Furthermore, it can be difficult to really know how to solve them. The first thing to do is for them to identify the problem. Let them acknowledge the presence of the problem and address it. Even having them say the problem out loud can bring a huge difference. Ask open-ended questions that can help them get a clear picture of what the situation is all about.
- Encourage them to think of multiple solutions.
Let your children know that there can be multiple potential solutions to a problem. Let them think of ways on how to solve the issue they are facing. Instead of focusing on how good or how silly a solution they recommend may be, the biggest takeaway at this stage is to approach the problem with creativity.
- Evaluate each solution.
Every possible solution may have potential pros and cons. Help your kids find out what these pros and cons are.
- Choose and try the best solution available.
Based on the pros and cons identified, allow your children to pick out the best solution to the problem. Then, ask them to try it out. For instance, if they have a problem finding their toys every time, let them store the toys in a single location. Get them to see that this solution can work if they won’t have the same problem anymore.
Montessori Children’s House offers various programs for your kids. We are a Montessori School in Riverside, California believing in the power of a hands-on and child-centered approach to education. Contact us today!
