Teaching Preschoolers to Reason and Not Just React

What You Need To Know

Problems pop up everyday and it’s a good thing for the most part that we know how to handle them. However, your 3-5-year old is just now figuring this all out. Here’s what experts expect from your little one in the area of problem solving and reasoning:

• Child shows ability to classify, compare and contrast objects, events and experiences.
• Makes comparisons among objects that have been observed.
• Sort objects by similar qualities.
• Uses active exploration and trial and error to solve problems.
• Makes comparisons among objects that have been observed. Sorts objects by similar qualities.
• Child reflects on experiences and information, interprets or draws conclusions based on the information.
• Tries several methods to reach an object high on a shelf before asking for assistance.
• Constructs a bridge with blocks using past experiences as a guide.

How You Can Help

Everyday there are opportunities for teaching moments and the next time your son or daughter has a problem remember some of these valuable tips.

• Provide opportunities to increase your child’s ability to make independent choices. “There are no popsicles left, which of these other treats would you like to have?”
• Encourage a variety of sensory experiences. “We can’t go outside now, but when the rain stops we can put on our rain gear and jump in some puddles”.
• Give children ample time to problem solve without intervening.

Learning problem solving skills can be an on-going process. I’m sure you know some grown-ups who still have difficulty handling what life dishes out. Improving your own problem-solving skills will no doubt teach your tot how to cope too.

For more on this topic, see the complete article:

http://www.education.com/reference/article/reason-problem-solving-develop/