Problem Solving
Empower your child to independently find solutions to problems.
Narrative
Most questions can be solved, though many have no immediate clear answer. A young persons patience can be improved by breaking questions into smaller parts and tackling them one piece at a time.
Illustration discussions:
Why does the man have gloves on? The man’s tools are called “tongs”. What do they do?
How hot is the fire? What will he make from the zinc and copper ?
What do the bricks do ? Has the man ever made these things before ?
Activities
Start with a simple question at the base of a staircase. How do we get to the next floor ? one step at a time!
Make a simple batch of sugar cookies. Explain that when the parts are separate they have less value than when combined. The finished project can be enjoyed by all.
Practice is important. Try spelling a new word. Repeat the proper spelling several times. When age appropriate, write it a few times. Then use it in a sentence several times. If you remember* ask about the word the next day to reinforce its spelling and use.
A favorite game is Boggle. Shake the 16 cubes and find some words in the letters that touch each other. This is great practice for thinking. A travel time variation is “roadside boggle” (I made it up) using the letters in an upcoming road sign to find words in its letters. Rotate turns in the car until you pass the sign. Last person with a word before passing the sign is the winner. This keeps everyone preparing for their turn as they drive and the pace of the game gets faster and faster as players are ready.