problem solving scenarios for kids

WV App Login
Site Search
Report Templates
Speech Helpers
SLP Resources
Top 10 Tips
Getting an Eval
Certified SLP
How to Say the R Sound
0-18 Months
18-36 Months
18-30 Months
30-36 Months
10-11 Years
Articulation
Cleft Palate
Phonological
Dysphagia Causes
Dysphagia Treatment

30 Problem Solving Scenarios for Speech Therapy Practice

As promised here are the words for your unlimited use .

If you know others who can use our lists ...

... please share this page using our site share buttons.

Explore Our Goal Reaching, Client Centered Products

Freebies, Activities, and Specials, Oh My! Sign up for Terrific Therapy Activity Emails

See Past Email Examples

Your information is 100% private & never shared .

Hi! We're Luke and Hollie.

We are both MS CCC-SLPs and fell in love while studying for our degrees. Since then we have done everything together - graduated, worked, and started a family. We spend most of our time with our family and the rest making this site for you.

Top Free Resources

Word Vault Essential

# 1 Chronological Age Calculator

Popular Materials

All in one printable flashcards.

Multiple Meaning Word Mega Pack

Complete Articulation Word Search

New! 111 Articulation Stories

Teaching the Sound Books

Multi-Syllabic Words Flashcards

Apps to Save You Time & Help Your Clients

Articulation therapy + pirate adventures = awesomeness.

This App Will Get Your Kids Talking

Image Credits

This website contains affiliate links, meaning if you buy something from them we may make some money (at no cost to you). By using our affiliate links, you are helping to support our site which is a U.S.-based, family-run small business :)

A Blog About Parenting: Coping Skills, Behavior Management and Special Needs

Title Teaching Kids Problem Solving Skills and an illustration of a kid with a magnifying glass

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.

Examples of worksheet for kids on problem-solving strategies

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.

Workbook for kids on Problem solving strategies

(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

Problem Solving Strategies_Workbook for Kids

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

Kid in a bubble that represents personal space and title "Personal Space Activities for Kids"

One Comment

I always look forward to your articles with active interventions. Thank you!

17 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids

There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.

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.

problem solving activities | how do you teach a child problem solving skills | are problem-solving games good for kids

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.

fun activities for kids | kids creative activities at home | fun activities for kids near me

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 .

problem solving activities for kids | problem solving activities for students | games that promote problem solving for kids

Math for Kids
Parenting Resources
ELA for Kids
Teaching Resources

How to Teach Number Recognition to Kids in 8 Easy Steps

How to Teach One to One Correspondence To Kids: 4 Easy Steps

How to Teach Odd and Even Numbers in 4 Easy Steps

How to Teach Long Division to Kids in 6 Easy Steps

15 Famous Mathematicians in History That Kids Should Know

8 Types of Preschool Programs for Kids in 2024

6-year-old Developmental Milestones Checklist

How to Prepare a Schedule for Kindergarten With Examples

How to Prepare a Schedule for Preschoolers With Sample

12 Best Funny Short Stories for Kids to Read in 2024

60 Famous Quotes About Reading, Books & Writing for All Ages

What is Reading Assessment? Types & Tools [Full Guide]

What are the Stages of Writing Development [Full Guide]

11 Best English Grammar Apps for Kids [Android & iOS]

10 Different Type of Reading Materials for Kids

12 Best Reading Bulletin Board Ideas for Your Classroom

15 Fun Summer Bulletin Board Ideas for 2024

13 Best Assessment Tools for Teachers in 2024

12 Best STEM Programs for Kids in 2024

12 Best Tips for Substitute Teachers

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.

Math & ELA | PreK To Grade 5

Kids see fun ., you see real learning outcomes ..

Watch your kids fall in love with math & reading through our scientifically designed curriculum.

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.

15 Fun and Educational Body Part Activities for Kids

12 Best Name Writing Activities for Kids

12 Easy Fall Crafts for Kids of All Ages

Pre-Kindergarten
Kindergarten

Most Popular

76 Best Report Card Comments Samples for Teachers

117 Best Riddles for Kids (With Answers)

40 Best Good Vibes Quotes to Brighten Your Day

Math & ELA | PreK To Grade 5

Kids see fun., you see real learning outcomes..

Watch your kids fall in love with math & reading through our scientifically designed curriculum.

Parents, try for free Teachers, use for free

Games for Kids
Worksheets for Kids
Math Worksheets
ELA Worksheets
Math Vocabulary
Number Games
Addition Games
Subtraction Games
Multiplication Games
Division Games
Addition Worksheets
Subtraction Worksheets
Multiplication Worksheets
Division Worksheets
Times Tables Worksheets
Reading Games
Writing Games
Phonics Games
Sight Words Games
Letter Tracing Games
Reading Worksheets
Writing Worksheets
Phonics Worksheets
Sight Words Worksheets
Letter Tracing Worksheets
Prime Number
Order of Operations
Long multiplication
Place value
Parallelogram
SplashLearn Success Stories
SplashLearn Apps

Back-to-School Learning Boost!

Turn play into progress., jumpstart learning now.

Explore 4,000+ games and 450+ lesson plans designed to make this school year the best one yet!

Parents, Try for Free Teachers, Use for Free

Problem-Solving Skills for Kids: 10+ Games, Activities & Worksheets

Teaching Problem Solving Skills for Kids is about more than just solving math problems or deciding who gets the last piece of pizza. It’s about preparing them for real life, where they face many situations every day that require quick and effective decision-making.

It’s important for parents and educators to guide children to think creatively and keep trying, rather than solving every problem for them.

For example, if two children want the same toy, instead of deciding for them, encourage them to talk and come up with a sharing plan. This approach not only solves the immediate issue but also teaches valuable lessons in negotiation and fairness.

Kids who learn problem-solving skills become good at seeing challenges as chances to learn and grow, not just obstacles.

What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

Think about a time when you had a messy pile of shoelaces or blocks. It might have seemed tough at first, but then you figured out how to sort it all step by step. That’s problem-solving!

Problem-solving skills are like superpowers for handling all kinds of challenges. Whether it’s sharing toys with friends or choosing a game that everyone enjoys, these skills help you find smart solutions.

It’s not just about solving problems.

It’s about understanding them, thinking creatively, and sometimes working together.

So, the next time you face a tricky puzzle or situation, remember you’re ready to use your problem-solving skills.

Are you ready to be a problem-solving hero?

Why Kids Need Problem-Solving Skills?

Imagine you’re on a team, tasked with building the tallest tower using blocks. Everyone has ideas, but how do you choose the best one? This is where problem-solving skills are essential.

Problem-solving is not just about figuring things out by yourself; it involves teamwork, understanding various perspectives, and finding solutions that satisfy everyone. It’s like being a detective in everyday life, solving puzzles that make life smoother and more enjoyable for you and your friends.

Being good at solving problems means you can better manage difficult situations, like sharing fairly or adjusting when plans change. This skill boosts your independence and confidence because you know you can tackle any challenge.

Plus, excellent problem solvers are valuable team members and friends that everyone appreciates.

Building Resilience

When children tackle problems and figure out solutions, they become more resilient. This resilience allows them to recover from difficulties and adopt a positive, growth-focused attitude.

As children handle more challenges by themselves, they start to see problems as hidden opportunities.

Fostering Independence

Problem-solving skills help kids become more independent. By learning to think critically and make their own decisions, children grow to rely on themselves.

This self-reliance is key to becoming a responsible adult. When parents and teachers support these skills, they empower kids to manage their own lives.

Teamwork and Collaboration

Teamwork and collaboration involve kids working together to find solutions and reach goals. It teaches them to share ideas, listen to each other, and work as a team.

During problem-solving, they come up with ideas, talk about them, and choose the best one. Everyone plays a part and their ideas are important.

Teamwork helps kids learn to cooperate, respect different opinions, and use each other’s strengths. This way, they can overcome challenges and come up with creative solutions together.

Academic Success

Helping kids succeed in school is about more than just learning facts. it’s about teaching them how to solve problems. These skills allow kids to think deeply, understand different situations, and come up with solutions on their own.

Through group projects, tough puzzles, and hands-on experiences, kids learn to face challenges with creativity and determination.

As they get better at solving problems, they become more confident and flexible, which helps them do well in school and encourages a lasting passion for learning.

Types of Problem-Solving Skills

Problem-solving skills for kids include critical thinking, creativity, and resilience. They learn to analyze complex problems by breaking them into smaller parts. Creativity helps them think of different solutions.

Being able to communicate well allows them to share ideas and work with others. Persistence and resilience teach them to keep going, even when things get tough.

These skills help children confidently solve problems on their own, which helps them grow and develop.

Creative Thinking

Creative thinking is all about seeing things from a new perspective. When kids learn to think creatively, they can come up with innovative solutions to problems.

This skill is valuable not just in academics but in all areas of life.

Critical Thinking

Critical thinking involves analyzing information and evaluating different solutions. It’s essential for problem-solving because it helps kids make informed decisions.

Teaching kids to ask questions, seek evidence, and consider different viewpoints enhances their critical thinking skills .

Decision Making

Decision-making is the process of choosing between different options. This skill is closely related to problem-solving because it involves weighing the pros and cons of various choices.

Helping kids understand the impact of their decisions and guiding them through the process strengthens their problem-solving abilities.

Strategies to Teach Problem-Solving Skills

Ready to help your kids learn problem-solving? It’s a valuable skill that can be enjoyable to teach. Here are some great ways to help your children become skilled problem solvers.

Start with guided play, where you create scenarios or games that pose challenges. For example, building a bridge with blocks to avoid a “lava floor” or figuring out how to share snacks equally. Guided play offers a safe environment for children to experiment and discover solutions.

Then, try story-based problem-solving. Use stories to present problems, and after reading, ask, “What would you do in this situation? ” This encourages kids to think critically and creatively about the issues in the story.

Encourage them to ask questions like “What if?” and “ Why not? ” This boosts their curiosity and enhances their problem-solving skills as they explore different outcomes.

Also, lead by example. When you encounter a problem, share your thought process out loud. Show how you consider options and consequences before making a decision.

This real-life demonstration can greatly influence their learning.

By using these strategies, you’re not only teaching your children to solve problems, you’re also equipping them with skills to handle school, friendships, and future careers

Encourage Curiosity

Encouraging kids to be curious helps them get better at solving problems. When kids are free to ask questions and find answers, they start thinking more deeply and creatively.

This is important for solving problems well. If kids have a safe space to explore and make mistakes, they learn a lot from those mistakes.

Role-Playing Activities

Role-playing activities are fun and interactive games where kids pretend to be different characters, like detectives or doctors.

They face various challenges that require them to think creatively, solve problems, and make decisions. This helps them develop important skills such as understanding situations, working together with others , and effective communication.

Open-Ended Questions

Open-ended questions are those that kids can’t simply answer with a “yes” or “no.” They help children think creatively and critically, boosting their problem-solving abilities.

By asking such questions, adults encourage kids to express their ideas and reasoning, which deepens their understanding and helps them come up with their own solutions.

This not only improves their communication skills but also helps them see different viewpoints and explain their thoughts. Overall, this method nurtures curiosity and equips kids to approach problems with confidence and creativity.

Reflective Practice

Reflective practice in problem-solving helps kids think about how they solved a problem. They learn which strategies worked and which didn’t.

This reflection helps them get better at solving problems, builds critical thinking, and teaches them to keep improving. It makes them stronger and more effective problem solvers as they grow.

Problem-Solving Games and Activities

Problem-solving games are not only fun; they’re also excellent brain training, helping you become quicker and more creative at solving problems.

Consider playing a treasure hunt where you solve riddles to find clues or building a maze for a toy car that you navigate using a straw. These activities require quick thinking, strategy, and foresight, mirroring real-life problem-solving.

Activities range from puzzles, where you piece things together, to strategic board games . Even team sports and pretend adventures teach you to observe, analyze, and act on key problem-solving skills.

Why not try these engaging games? Each puzzle you solve or strategy you perfect helps you become a better problem solver.

Ready to learn while playing? Let’s start and discover the great solutions you can create!

Puzzles and Brain Teasers

Puzzles and brain teasers are fun ways to boost kids’ problem-solving skills. These challenges can be jigsaw puzzles, tricky riddles, or math puzzles, all designed to make kids think critically and creatively.

By solving them, kids learn to break down problems, be persistent, and find different solutions.

Jigsaw puzzles, Sudoku, Rubik’s cubes or Riddle Generator

STEM Challenges

Set up STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) challenges in which kids build structures with blocks , design paper airplanes, or create simple machines using household items.

Websites like NASA’s “STEM Activities for Kids” offer great resources.

Indoor/ Outdoor Scavenger Hunt:

Create a scavenger hunt in your backyard or a nearby park. Give kids a list of items to find or clues to follow, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving.

Learn More here at : Indoor scavenger Hunt , Nature Scavenger Hunt . Halloween Scavenger hunt

Scenario-based Activities

While problem-solving activities are fantastic for developing cognitive skills, it’s equally crucial to equip kids with the tools to handle social challenges.

One way to cultivate these skills is by engaging kids in scenario-based activities. Present various social situations and ask, “What will you do?” Then, offer four alternatives to choose from. like

Your friend wants to play with your favorite toy, but you don’t want to share it. What will you do?
During recess, you notice a classmate sitting alone and looking sad. What will you do?
Someone in your class is being teased by others. What will you do?
Your friend borrowed a book from you and accidentally ripped a page. What will you do?
You’re playing a game with your friends, but one of them keeps cheating. What will you do?

These scenarios cover a range of social interactions and dilemmas. Allow kids to give their own Perspectives on each. Offering alternatives will ease their thinking process. Here is the “What will you do?” Worksheet to download and use.

Science Experiments:

Conduct simple science experiments at home that involve problem-solving, like creating a DIY volcano or testing the buoyancy of different objects.

Here is the list,

Sink or Float
Paper Airplane Engineering
DIY Volcano
Magnetic Attraction
Color Changing Milk
Gummy Bear Osmosis
DIY Rainbow

Board Games:

Play board games that require strategic thinking and decision-making, such as chess, checkers, or strategy-based card games like Uno or Settlers of Catan. here is the List

Settlers of Catan Junior
Ticket to Ride
Robot Turtles
Rush Hour Junior
Forbidden Island

Art Challenges:

Give kids art challenges like drawing a picture using only geometric shapes or creating a sculpture from recycled materials. This encourages creative problem-solving and thinking outside the box. Like

Collage Making With magazines, colored paper, fabric scraps, buttons, and beads
Painting with Unconventional Tools Like sponges, cotton swabs, toothbrushes, or even vegetables
Found Object Sculptures Like twigs, stones, bottle caps, and cardboard.
Story Illustration
Mosaic Art With cardboard or wood
Shadow Drawing
Tape Resist Art on on a canvas or paper

Escape Room Challenges :

Design a DIY escape room at home with age-appropriate puzzles and riddles. Kids can work together to solve clues and unlock the “escape.”

Trial and Error

Trial and error is a fantastic way for Kids to learn and explore new things. Just like we navigate the complexities of new gadgets, kids can dive into the world of toys and games with curiosity and determination.

Instead of giving kids all the instructions upfront, encourage them to experiment with different ingredients and techniques.

The kid might make a mess or burn a few pancakes along the way, but through trial and error, [he/she] will gradually learn how to whip up delicious meals.

Problem-solving skills are essential for kids to grow and succeed. These skills help children become strong, independent, and skilled.

Parents and educators can teach problem-solving through fun methods like role-playing , games, or asking open-ended questions .

It’s important to equip kids with the right tools so they can confidently and creatively face any challenge.

😍 Want to Read More, Explore 👇 This Article

I’m a former teacher (and mother of Two Childs) with a background in child development. Here to help you with play-based learning activities for kids. ( Check my Next startup Cledemy.Com )

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

$math maze--find the acorn$

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!

$Spark Math Treasure Chest A$

Spark Passion for Learning, Ignite Lifelong Growth

About Spark Education
Spark Education Group
Spark Math Program

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

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!

You Might Also Like...

the best science fair projects ideas for kids

Cool Science Fair Projects

Best Science Fairs and Contests for Kids

Fun Science Fairs and Contests for Kids

1 (844) 773-3822

26 Powerful Problem Solving Activities for Kids

Two kids, a boy and a girl, engaging in problem solving activities for kids, as they climb an indoor rock climbing wall, demonstrating teamwork, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.

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:

Want One-On-One Expert Help?!

Check this out.

#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

Our Services

Special Education Tutoring
IEP Consulting
Special Needs Advocacy
Home Schooling

Think Differently About Education. We Believe…

We assess your child’s learning style, personality, and interests to pair them with the ideal special ed tutor based on their individual needs.

Through technology and one on one learning, their future path to success can be made clear again.

Are you ready to see confident progress in your child?

Get started with a no-obligation consultation today!

There are hundreds of resources found on our website, SpecialEdResource.com, and on our YouTube channel that were created to help parents JUST LIKE YOU understand the cryptic language of special education.

Important Links

Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy

Summer Sale: Up to 35% off all items until August 31st 🏝️

Subscription Lines

How to Teach Your Kid Problem-Solving Skills Through Games and Activities

Read stories how our founder Albert turned his childhood passion into CircuitMess, and get exciting DIY project ideas you can do with your kids at home for free.

Table of content

You've decided to teach your kids problem-solving skills, but you're not 100% sure where to start? What kind of problem-solving activities are best for kids? Are there any games that can be helpful to developing problem solving skills?

If you're asking yourself these questions, we've got just what you need - a complete guide on how to teach your kids to solve problems, improve their thinking skills, and raise little problem-solvers who are ready to take on the world of the future.

This includes problem-solving scenarios and games kids can play, as well as straightforward strategies you can easily implement.

Let's start first by taking a look at the importance of teaching problem-solving skills at a young age.

Guide on teaching your kids problem-solving skills

Why is problem-solving important for kids?

The chances are you already know that teaching problem-solving skills to your kids can hugely benefit them later in life. Learning these skills will help lay the foundation for all their future endeavours and help them gain new skills easier than ever before.

Now, how exactly does learning problem-solving skills impact kids?

Their critical thinking is improved . Kids will be able to better analyze different situations and come up with clever solutions. This is crucial for kids to learn new decision-making skills.

They develop a "can-do" attitude . If there's an obstacle in their way, they won't give up until they overcome it. Learning problem-solving skills will help them bounce back from any future setbacks and stay focused on their goals.

They learn how to communicate. As the kids work with each other to solve problems, they'll pick up some invaluable social skills, including empathy and teamwork.

Their confidence will skyrocket. When kids successfully take on difficult challenges, they build their self-confidence and are more self-assured when a new challenge appears.

They approach complex subjects with a systematic and analytical mindset . This is huge for when your kids get a bit older and start attending high schools and universities.

To sum this up, teaching problem-solving skills to kids at a young age is exactly what helps them become little superheroes as they grow up. They'll be more resilient, they won't give up, they'll try to find as many solutions as possible, and they'll always look at the problem from a few different perspectives.

But what kind of games and activities can help kids pick up these skills?

Let's find out!

3 problem-solving practice scenarios for kids

Engaging your kids in problem-solving scenarios can have a hugely positive impact on their development. They'll be provided with a safe, risk-free environment where they can work on their critical thinking skills and come up with new creative solutions.

Here are a few problem-solving activities where kids can start strategizing solutions, analyzing different scenarios, and collaborating with other children.

Scenario #1: Team Cleanup

Here's an excellent team building activity for your kids - Team Cleanup! This is the perfect scenario for teaching your kids motor skills and making actions based on verbal instructions. Plus, it'll be extremely fun.

Now, the entire scenario revolves around transforming the mundane tasks of tidying up into fun and creative problem solving activities for kids. This helps them better work together with other kids and improves their critical thinking skills.

Problem solving scenario for kids - Team cleanup

How to play Team Cleanup?

Here is the step-by-step formula for a perfect Team Cleanup game.

Set the time limit. Add a sense of urgency to this scenario by introducing a time limit. This guarantees a fun challenge where children begin problem-solving just to beat the time limit and get the reward waiting for them at the finish line.

Assign tasks . A cleanup is more than just a chore for kids - especially when you introduce tasks, time limits, and rewards. Divide the responsibilities among the children and encourage them to be team players. They'll get different tasks based on what they can and like to do - pick up toys, fold blankets, put away their art supplies, and so on.

Encourage communication . Make sure the kids interact with each other. One of the, undeniably, most important skills they can gain is to be easy to work with. Let kids know that they need to share ideas, ask for help when needed, and update you on their progress. For example, you could say that they need to report back to you every 10 minutes.

Create obstacles . As kids dive into cleaning activities, they'll face various challenges. And to make things even more interesting, you can set up these obstacles and observe how your kids are solving problems. For example, this could be a cluttered corner with a ton of toys, supplies, and other stuff.

The Team Cleanup scenario helps nurture your kids' basic life skills and instills a positive attitude towards responsibilities. Even though this may seem as too easy for kids to gain real life skills - remember, nothing's easy when you're a 5-year-old.

P.S. Here's a great resource where you can find out how to include STEM toys in your kids' play scenarios !

Scenario #2: Lost & found

Lost & Found is a great imaginative game that will make kids put on their detective hats and start solving some mysteries. This simple game will help tap into your kids curiosity and sharpen their problem-solving abilities in a fun way.

This game is appropriate for all kids of different age groups, so regardless of how old your kid is, this activity is perfect to teach problem-solving skills.

Problem-solving scenario for kids - lost & found

How to play Lost & Found?

Create clues. You'll need to create a series of interesting clues around your house (or backyard) that will be relatively challenging for your kids to solve. This can include puzzles, riddles, or just some wordplay that can lead them to the next clue.

Hide the "lost" items. Find various spots to place the "lost" items. Ensure they are well-hidden, but not too difficult to find. Keep your kid's age and abilities in mind when choosing the hiding spots.

Give the 1st clue. The entire game starts by giving out the first clue. Kids will need to decipher it if they want to continue with this game.

Celebrate discoveries. Whenever kids discover a "lost" item, a celebration is due! Think about introducing small rewards or treats for successfully deciphering clues.

This problem-solving scenario is incredibly simple, but it has a ton of benefits for kids. It requires that they analyze clues, engage in critical thinking, and connect all the pieces to find solutions to the presented challenges.

And if they play this game with other kids, they can brainstorm solutions together, learn how to work in a team, and resolve problems simply by playing.

Scenario #3: The unreachable toy

The Unreachable Toy scenario will put your kids' minds to the test and spark their creativity. In this challenge, kids will need to navigate the obstacle course and identify the best way to reach the toy. There will be some wrong answers - but it's exactly what they need.

Every action has its natural consequences, so try to encourage them to creatively solve problems by looking at their surroundings, identifying all problem-solving steps, and questioning their methods.

Problem-solving scenario for kids - the unreachable toy

How to play The Unreachable Toy?

Choose a toy . This is one of the pretend play scenarios where the toy doesn't actually have to be out of reach. But, to better engage their imagination, you can place it on a high shelf, trap it behind an obstacle, or hide it in a certain location.

Create the challenge . You'll need to start by setting the scene. Explain why a toy seems unreachable, what kind of obstacles kids could face, and give them a few hints. This is perfect to engage your kids' problem-solving skills and test your child's ability to navigate through challenges.

Brainstorm solutions . This is the fun part. You'll get a direct look into your kids' problem-solving process and find out how they're approaching this challenge.

Experiment with different solutions . As your kids try out different approaches, they'll find out that their solutions may not work at all times. It's a perfect opportunity for kids to learn how to solve a problem independently. This will help them come up with different strategies and be a bit more creative whenever they need to solve their own problems.

The Unreachable Toy is a great challenge where kids can put their own problem-solving strategies to test and set the foundation for other skills that will hugely benefit them in life - decision-making, resilience, and critical thinking.

5 problem-solving games for kids

Kids love playing games. And what better way to teach problem-solving skills than through games?

We've handpicked 5 most fun problem-solving activities for kids that will help them gain a new important skill - while playing with their friends! Here's the list.

Game #1: Puzzles

Puzzles have for long been praised as one of the best brain-teasers for kids (and adults). They encourage logic, patience, and creativity - making them a perfect medium to teach problem-solving for kids.

When choosing the puzzle, select one that matches your child's age and interests. Usually, every puzzle box contains age recommendations, so pay attention to that when choosing one.

And once you open the puzzle and start assembling the pieces, your kids will have the perfect opportunity to observe different patterns, think about how various colors and shapes can work together, and hone their visual perception skills.

Guide them to start first with the borders or to first sort pieces by color or edge shapes. This will help them plan the puzzle before they take a deep dive.

Finishing a puzzle requires patience and perseverance. Encourage your kids not to give up when facing a difficulty and to finish what they start. Even though it's a simple game, it can teach your kids a lot about staying focused, always keeping in mind the big picture, and never giving up.

Game #2: Maze

Just like puzzles, maze games are praised as one of the best problem-solving activities for kids. They'll help kids strategize, gain spatial awareness, and come up with creative solutions to their unique problems.

There are many mazes you can build, but be sure to select one that matches your child's ability and age, since it can easily become too complex. And if you're wondering where to find different mazes, here are a few ideas on how to create your own maze .

As kids try to navigate through your newly-created maze, they'll need to embrace the trial and error process. They'll hit a dead-end many times, so planning wisely should be their top priority.

Even though mazes are one of the simplest problem-solving activities for kids, they are a treasure trove of developmental benefits. They help kids master spatial awareness, improve their problem-solving skills, and instill patience and hand-eye coordination. Extremely beneficial for toddlers and preschoolers!

Problem-solving games for kids - a tape maze

Image source: https://craftivitydesigns.com/

Game #3: Rubik’s Cube

Let's be honest - not everyone can successfully solve a Rubik's Cube. It doesn't happen on accident and there are several key skills and patterns you need to master before you can succeed. This is exactly why using Rubik's Cube to teach problem-solving for kids is a perfect way to ensure your kids can thrive whenever faced with a new challenge.

Before they even start, your kids will need to get familiar with the Rubik's Cube - its structure, colors, and basic movements. Introduce your kids to the notation used to describe the cube movements (R, L, U, D, F, B - right, left, upper, lower, front, backface)

Start with solving just one layer at a time. And all that's left is to practice until it's finished. And if your kids seem to have a great time playing with the Rubik's Cube, teach them some advanced methods like the Fridrich or Roux method.

It's incredible how a small cube toy can have such a huge impact on kids' cognitive development. It helps kids hone their analytical skills and come up with their own problem-solving framework. Give it some time and in a few weeks - they'll have their own way of solving a Rubik's Cube.

And solving it simply takes time when you're a beginner. There are many speedcubers who can do it in less than 10 seconds, but let's not set the bar that high for the start.

Problem-solving game for kids - The Rubik's Cube

Game #4: Chess

Chess is a beautiful game enjoyed by kids and adults of all ages and interests. Once used by the mighty Persian Empire to entertain generals and improve their strategic thinking - now it's one of the most popular board games enjoyed by millions across the globe.

And chess is much more than simply a game. It's a journey of strategic thinking and problem-solving where young minds can develop highly valuable skills they'll use later in life.

To start, introduce your kids to the board and familiarize them with the different chess pieces. They'll need to learn how each of them moves, when they can capture the opponent's pieces, and how to utlimately checkmate the opponent's king piece.

The best thing you can do for start is teach your kids about some simple openings and strategies and take time to explain the situation they're in after every move. They'll start to think about different approaches, test different strategies, and learn a few valuable lessons along the way.

And remember - the most important aspect of playing chess is playing it regularly. With every new game, they'll get better. Regardless if they win or lose the game, they'll have a new trick up their sleeve the next time they play.

Game #5: Build a tower

When you ask adults what was one of their favorite activities when they were kids, you'll often hear "building a fort" or "building a tower". And isn't that something?

Do you remember the joyous feeling when you would use every possible thing in your house to build a high tower? Chairs, tables, toys, everything was a valid building block.

Now, it's time for your kids to unleash their inner architect.

Gather all the "building blocks", LEGO bricks (if you have them), stackable materials, toys, and so on.

Give them a specific challenge. Whether it's a bridge, a tall tower, a fort, a specific building. Or let them simply engage in free play. This is the time where you need to let them be creative and have their imagination flowing. and when they do build a tower, don't forget to reward them!

To keep this even more interesting, you can test the stability of their tower. Either gently tap on the tower or start blowing on it to see if it stands tall. If it falls, this is yet another challenge for your young architects where they need to think about how to solve this problem and make it more stable.

Not only will this activity help your kids think about different possible outcomes and try to find a better solution, it will help their gross motor skills and foster concentration and focus . Kids love building because that's when their imagination can run wild and the end results are tangible - a new tower overlooking your living room.

And if your kids are already interested in building things, they'll get into robotics

Problem-solving games for kids - building a tower

Problem-solving teaching strategies for kids of all ages

By now, we've established that teaching kids about solving problems can have a hugely positive benefit on your kids' development. As parents and educators, our role is a crucial one. It's up to us to equip kids for success and teach them how to react when they face a new problem.

Here are some of our handpicked teaching strategies that can help your kids develop problem-solving abilities.

Go step-by-step through the entire scenario

Start by breaking down problems into smaller, more manageable steps. Whether it's a puzzle, an object they need to reach, or a conflict with other kids - we need to encourage them to approach this problem methodically.

Ideally, we want our kids to analyze the situation, brainstorm a few solutions, and implement the best approach one step at the time.

Remember, break it down into simpler, smaller steps they can easily recognize.

Write down what didn’t work

A failure is never just that - it's an opportunity for growth. When your kids hit a roadblock and don't know what to do - often, the best idea is to write down the process and note what didn't work. Once that's done, they can immediately move forward with another idea and build resilience through their mistakes.

Revisit past problem-solving scenarios

Your kids have hit a "brick wall" and seem to be unable to move forward with their challenge? Talk with them about their previous challenges, how they solved them, what was their logic previously, and if they can apply that strategy to the current task.

They'll immediately start recalling past challenges and methods they used to solve them. All they need sometimes is a small "push" to reinforce their techniques and build upon previous experiences.

Ask open-ended questions

Open-ended questions are perfect for testing your kids' imagination. A simple open-ended question can supercharge their minds and help them analyze a situation from a few different perspectives. This simple action broadens their problem-solving horizons and helps them get the most out of their imagination.

Raise little problem-solvers with our help

Helping parents teach problem-solving skills to their kids is one of our greatest missions. Not only these simple activities can help foster a growth mindset, but you have the chance to make learning fun for your kids.

Kids often look for parents' approval when they're at a young age, and with our support, they can grow up to be resilient, curious, and creative problem-solvers.

To help your kids more easily adopt the skills of the future, we've created the best DIY play kits you can find on the internet. And if your kids are already avid video game players , this could be a great alternative for them!

For kids aged 9 and older, we've created Wacky Robots subscription as a perfect introduction to STEM sciences. In this affordable subscription, your kids will get new tools and equipment to build a new STEM toy every single month.

And for kids aged 11 and older (including you), there's something even more interesting - the STEM Box . Every 3 months, we'll send you a DIY box containing all the parts and instructions you need to build something extremely fun.

CircuitMess DIY STEM box for teaching kids about problem-solving

Getting kids interested in STEM and problem-solving in their early childhood is crucial for the development of their cognitive abilities. Our goal as parents is to prepare our kids for the outside world - and we all know it's riddled with endless problems. So, get familiar with CircuitMess and find out exactly how we can help you raise little problem-solvers and prepare them for a successful life.

Turning Childhood Dreams into Reality: Supporting Croatian Tech Innovators

Like many children, Martin M., CEO of Devōt, had a knack for taking apart small gadgets. Remotes, clocks, old phones, an...

18 Exciting STEM Activities for Kindergarteners

If you’re looking for fun and educational ways to keep your little ones engaged, you’re in the right place. This article...

8 Exciting Technology Activities For Engaging Your Kids at Home

Keeping kids engaged and learning can sometimes feel like a puzzle. But what if I told you that the pieces of this puzzl...

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

The ReadyKids App is an innovative platform that makes Occupational Therapy affordable, accessible, and fun.

With daily resource recommendations, this intuitive app combines efficacy and fun in children's therapy.

Developed By Registered Occupational Therapists
New Resources Released Weekly

Ready Kids: Occupational Therapy Resources App

Share This Post

More To Explore

What Are Social Stories? (Benefits for Children with Autism)

Fun & Educational Tongue Twisters for Kids – Improve Speech Skills

Cute funny girl play with orange slime. Kid squeeze and stretching toy slime.

Educational Guide: How to Get Slime Out of Clothes – Occupational Therapy Tips

11 Best Visual Timers for Kids With Autism

2 Week Parent Support Program

Calling all overwhelmed parents of children with additional needs! Our two-week Parent Support Program is here to provide you with the tools and support you need. Don’t wait, give your child the exceptional care they deserve. Enrol in our program now!

1:1 session with a Registered OT (Valued @ $110)
Interactive Q & A Session (Valued @ $193)
Access to VIP Community (Can't be valued)
Customised 2-week plan (Valued @ $110)

Total Value of $413

Today's Price: FREE

Still Need Help?

The readykids app helps kids develop skills at home.

Kathy B SLP

Problem Solving Scenarios for Kids

social problem solving - boys fighting over toy

What is Social Problem Solving?

Social problem solving is a process of recognizing difficulties and adapting or changing to resolve problems that we encounter in everyday living. Social problem solving is an essential life skill. Strong problem-solving skills are important in social interactions throughout life. Young children learn social problem-solving skills like learning to share and asking for preferred items. They learn to use the right words, tone of voice, and body language. They also learn to read the body language and tone of voice of others. They learn to make social inferences and understand the perspectives of others. As children grow and develop social problem-solving skills become more complex. Children with strong social problem-solving skills respond better to stress. They are also more likely to be successful in personal and professional interactions as they get older.

Kids have to solve social problems throughout their days in school. These issues range from requesting help in the classroom to joining in with a basketball game on the playground. Kids learn many of these problem-solving skills through maturity, experience, and adult direction. Other times more direct teaching is necessary.

How Can we help students learn Social Problem Solving Skills?

Teach kids to communicate their feelings in a calm way. As adults, we know that misunderstanding causes many problems in social interactions. Difficulty understanding the perspective of someone else also causes problems.
Help students learn to identify problems. Sometimes kids don’t recognize nonverbal clues that there is a social problem.
Model social problem skills for students. Talk about social problems that occur throughout the day. Model social problem solving and talk about your thinking.
Use problem-solving scenarios for kids to practice social problem-solving. By using hypothetical problems kids can gain important social skills.

What are problem solving scenarios?

Jill’s class is on a field trip to a museum. Jill wasn’t paying attention and lost her group. Now she is by herself. What is the problem? How can Jill solve her problem?

Your classmate is passing out cupcakes and she did not give one to you. How do you feel? What can you do?

Y ou are doing a math paper in class but you are confused about how to do some of it. What can you do?

It is your birthday and your grandmother just gave you a present. It’s a really boring sweater. What should you do?

Your friend at school is sitting by himself at recess and looking really sad. What can you do?

Jack and Yasine want to play a game but they want to play different games. They are arguing. What can they do?

You are at a friend’s house for dinner and they are going to eat lobster. You are allergic to lobster and shellfish. What should you do? What would you say?

These are some examples of problem solving scenario for kids. In using scenarios, students can identify problems, talk about perspectives and come up with solutions. There is usually not just one solution. It is great for students to brainstorm and come up with different ways to solve problems.

Here are more problem solving scenarios for kids:

Try this fun set of problem solving scenarios with a superhero twist!

Social Skills All Year is a comprehensive set of social skills questions for the whole year.

social problem solvimg for back to school

Get ready for back-to-school with this set of back-to-school problem-solving scenarios.

Try some of these other social problem-solving scenarios that I like:

Social and safety skill question cards

Social Skills for Teenagers

Social Skills Bundle

Fun and Effective Problem Solving Scenarios for Elementary Students

Key takeaways.

Problem-solving skills are crucial for the development of elementary students, aiding in academic, personal, and social growth.
Fun and engaging scenarios can effectively teach these skills, including situations like The Lost Toy, The Broken Pencil, and The Group Project.
Teaching specific problem-solving strategies, encouraging critical thinking, and fostering collaboration and communication are essential strategies to enhance these skills.
Integrating problem-solving scenarios and strategies into teaching practices can help students develop critical thinking, creativity, and effective decision-making abilities.

Introduction: Fun and Effective Problem-Solving Scenarios for Elementary Students

In this post, I will discuss the importance of problem-solving skills in elementary students and how social-emotional learning can play a crucial role in developing these skills. I will also provide fun and effective problem-solving scenarios that you can use with your students. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Problem Solving

Before we jump into the problem-solving scenarios, let’s first understand what problem-solving is all about. Problem solving is the process of finding solutions to challenges or obstacles that we encounter in our daily lives. It involves identifying the problem, brainstorming possible solutions, evaluating those solutions, and selecting the best one.

Developing problem-solving skills in elementary students is essential as it helps them become independent thinkers, critical thinkers, and effective decision-makers. These skills not only benefit them academically but also in their personal and social lives.

Fun Problem-Solving Scenarios for Elementary Students

Now, let’s explore some fun problem-solving scenarios that you can use with your elementary students. These scenarios are designed to be engaging and interactive, allowing students to apply their problem-solving skills in a practical and enjoyable way.

Scenario 1: The Lost Toy

Description: Imagine a student has lost their favorite toy. They have searched their room but can’t find it anywhere.

Steps to solve the problem:

Identify the problem: The student has lost their toy.
Brainstorm possible solutions: Ask the student to think of different places where the toy could be.
Evaluate the solutions: Discuss the pros and cons of each possible solution.
Select the best solution: Help the student choose the most effective solution, such as retracing their steps or asking family members for help.

Discussion on possible solutions and their outcomes: After the student has implemented the chosen solution, discuss the outcome. Did they find the toy? If not, what other steps could they take to solve the problem?

Scenario 2: The Broken Pencil

Description: A student is working on an assignment when their pencil breaks.

Identify the problem: The student’s pencil has broken.
Brainstorm possible solutions: Encourage the student to think of different ways they can continue their work without a pencil.
Evaluate the solutions: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each solution.
Select the best solution: Help the student choose the most practical solution, such as borrowing a pencil from a classmate or using a pen.

Discussion on possible solutions and their outcomes: After the student has implemented the chosen solution, discuss the outcome. Did they complete their assignment successfully? If not, what other steps could they take to solve the problem?

Scenario 3: The Group Project

Description: A group of students is working on a project together, but they are having difficulty agreeing on a topic.

Identify the problem: The group is struggling to agree on a project topic.
Brainstorm possible solutions: Encourage each student to suggest project topics and discuss the merits of each idea.
Evaluate the solutions: Help the group evaluate the feasibility and interest level of each topic.
Select the best solution: Facilitate a group discussion to reach a consensus on the project topic.

Discussion on possible solutions and their outcomes: After the group has chosen a project topic, discuss the outcome. Did they work well together? If not, what other steps could they take to solve the problem?

Strategies to Enhance Problem-Solving Skills

Now that we have explored some problem-solving scenarios, let’s discuss strategies to enhance problem-solving skills in elementary students. These strategies can be incorporated into your teaching practices to help students develop and strengthen their problem-solving abilities.

Teach problem-solving strategies

One effective way to enhance problem-solving skills is to teach students specific problem-solving strategies. Here are a few strategies you can introduce:

Brainstorming: Encourage students to generate multiple ideas or solutions to a problem.
Breaking down the problem: Teach students to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts.
Considering different perspectives: Help students develop empathy and consider different viewpoints when solving problems.
Evaluating and selecting the best solution: Teach students how to evaluate the pros and cons of each solution and choose the most effective one.

Encourage critical thinking

Critical thinking is an essential component of problem solving. By encouraging critical thinking, you can help students develop their analytical and evaluative skills. Here are a few ways to promote critical thinking:

Asking open-ended questions: Pose questions that require students to think deeply and provide thoughtful responses.
Promoting creative thinking: Encourage students to think outside the box and explore innovative solutions to problems.
Providing opportunities for decision-making: Allow students to make decisions independently and reflect on the consequences of their choices.

Foster collaboration and communication

Problem solving often involves working with others and effective communication. By fostering collaboration and communication skills, you can help students navigate group problem-solving situations more effectively. Here are a few strategies to foster collaboration and communication:

Group problem-solving activities: Assign students to work in groups to solve problems together, encouraging them to share ideas and work collaboratively.
Role-playing scenarios: Engage students in role-playing activities where they can practice problem-solving and communication skills in a simulated setting.
Effective communication techniques: Teach students active listening, expressing ideas clearly, and resolving conflicts constructively.

Problem-solving skills are crucial for elementary students as they lay the foundation for success in various aspects of life. By incorporating problem-solving scenarios and strategies into your teaching practices, you can help students develop these essential skills. Remember, problem solving is not only about finding the right answer but also about developing critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills. So, let’s encourage our students to embrace problem-solving and watch them thrive!

Looking for Fun and Effective Problem-Solving Scenarios for Your Elementary Students? Discover More Resources Here!

Start your Everyday Speech Free trial here to access a wide range of resources and activities that promote social-emotional learning and problem-solving skills in elementary students.

Preparing for Success: Enhancing Social Communication in Grade 12

Preparing for Success: Enhancing Social Communication in Grade 12 Key Takeaways Strong social communication skills are crucial for academic success and building meaningful relationships in Grade 12. Social communication includes verbal and non-verbal communication,...

Preparing for Success: Enhancing Social Communication in Grade 12 Preparing for Success: Enhancing Social Communication in Grade 12 As students enter Grade 12, they are on the cusp of adulthood and preparing for the next chapter of their lives. While academic success...

FREE MATERIALS

Better doesn’t have to be harder, social skills lessons students actually enjoy.

Be the best educator you can be with no extra prep time needed. Sign up to get access to free samples from the best Social Skills and Social-Emotional educational platform.

Get Started Instantly for Free

Complete guided therapy.

The subscription associated with this email has been cancelled and is no longer active. To reactivate your subscription, please log in.

If you would like to make changes to your account, please log in using the button below and navigate to the settings page. If you’ve forgotten your password, you can reset it using the button below.

Unfortunately it looks like we’re not able to create your subscription at this time. Please contact support to have the issue resolved. We apologize for the inconvenience. Error: Web signup - customer email already exists

Welcome back! The subscription associated with this email was previously cancelled, but don’t fret! We make it easy to reactivate your subscription and pick up right where you left off. Note that subscription reactivations aren't eligible for free trials, but your purchase is protected by a 30 day money back guarantee. Let us know anytime within 30 days if you aren’t satisfied and we'll send you a full refund, no questions asked. Please press ‘Continue’ to enter your payment details and reactivate your subscription

Notice About Our SEL Curriculum

Our SEL Curriculum is currently in a soft product launch stage and is only available by Site License. A Site License is currently defined as a school-building minimum or a minimum cost of $3,000 for the first year of use. Individual SEL Curriculum licenses are not currently available based on the current version of this product.

By clicking continue below, you understand that access to our SEL curriculum is currently limited to the terms above.

When kids struggle, parents' mental health and careers do too.

Check out our ebook summarizing findings from our latest study on the intersection of work and parenting.

How it Works
Our Science
Testimonials
Health Plans
Articles & Activities
For Families
For Business

Decision-making

7 Fun Problem Solving Activities to Support Kids’ Growth

by Suzanne Wintner, MSW, LICSW, PhD

The ability to evaluate a situation, assess your options, and choose the most appropriate course of action can bring feelings of peace and happiness. Problem solving skills are an amazing gift to bestow on your developing child to help them feel empowered and prepared to take on life challenges.

Play presents a powerful opportunity for learning. Approach teaching problem solving skills as yet another learning game with the following fun activities:

1. Interactive storytelling. Children of all ages are easily captivated by a compelling story. From picture books for preschoolers to young adult literature, there’s always a plot offering up a conflict to solve or a social problem to work through. Help your child enjoy a more engaging reading experience by asking questions about what the main character may be feeling or experiencing, and ask for their opinion about what steps the character could take to solve the challenges they may be facing.

2. Pretend play . Roleplaying is a fun way to expose your child to new experiences or situations in a safe, low-pressure setting. Join your child in creative play and gently guide them towards scenarios that require problem solving. For instance, if you’re playing school, take on the role of a student who doesn’t want to do the assigned activity. If you’re playing grocery store, act as if a power outage has made the cash register inoperable. What should we do now? Invite your child to save the day with their solution and talk about a variety of ways they could tackle the problem.

3. Board games. Family game night can be even more meaningful than simply spending time together because it provides a potential opportunity for problem solving.. Check out games like Lion in My Way, Quirkle, Mind Blox, Cat Crimes, or more traditional options like chess or checkers, based on the age ranges and interests of your family. Board games are also an excellent lesson in taking turns, being a good sport, and anger management.

4. Team building activities. Working together to solve a problem is an ideal way to practice social skills in a small group, while also focusing on critical thinking skills. Organizations like Odyssey of the Mind challenge children of all ages to think creatively while working collaboratively, but you could arrange something less formal with a friend group, sports team, or scout den. Many of the activities consist of using everyday items in unusual ways. For instance, ask the group to build a structure using seven pieces of paper — no tape, paperclips, string, or other components — and award points for every inch of height. Set a timer for a group planning period and then a time limit for completing their challenge. Encourage the group to review the project after the fact to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of their strategy.

5. Treasure hunt. For a fun rainy day or indoor activity, design a problem-solving treasure hunt for your child by hiding small items or treats around the house along with cards that contain obscure hints that would direct them to the next clue. You can use picture-based clues or riddles regarding household objects to easily customize your treasure hunt to your child’s age range or skill level.

6. Question and answer quiz. Thought-provoking conversation is an excellent learning aid and a good way to keep the family entertained on long car rides, in waiting rooms, or at your dinner table. Make up a list of “What would you do if…” type questions and ask everyone to take turns answering. If your child thrives off of friendly competition, you can up the ante by assigning points for the most creative or unusual answer or continue the conversation by asking even more questions based on their offered solution.

7. Open ended play. Sometimes the best way to learn can be through life’s more natural lessons. Young children discover a lot about cause and effect and creative thinking through unstructured play. Provide toys like LEGO, train tracks, art supplies, or wooden building blocks and step back and watch the magic happen. Open-ended play is the perfect way to “teach” problem solving as it is a natural and fun way to practice trying solutions independently.

Note from Mightier Clinicians

You can’t solve every problem for your child, but you can teach them how to use critical thinking and problem solving skills, which are a far more valuable contribution to their self-esteem and personal development. Help your child learn how to identify an issue, ask the right questions, brainstorm ideas, choose the best option available, and reflect on the outcome by framing problem solving as a fun activity instead of an obstacle.

Learn more about how Mightier helps kids manage their emotions.

Like this article

Sign up for a free digital sample of our skill packs.

We’ll also send you free resources, activities and exclusive offers.

Welcome to the Mightier community. We will be in touch!

Looks like you are already signed up with this email!

Perspective-Taking Activities for Kids

Relationship-building

Practicing empathy to support your child going back to school

Anger and frustration

Leaves of Gratitude

Nurture Your Child’s Creative Spark

Play and Wellness

New Year’s Fun for Kids

Family Gratitude Jar

Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar

10 Problem Solving Games for Kids

Playing board games is one of the best ways to spend time with your children. Why? Board games offer ample ways for kids to build their brains. Not only does playing games with your children improve family relationships and give opportunities for caring adults to help nurture good sportsmanship but the best games build kids' critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Note: this post contains affiliate links that may earn commission.

We've composed a list of problem solving games for kids that help develop the following critical skills:

Advance planning - what steps do you need to make in order to reach your goal?
Decision making - evaluating the benefits of multiple choices
Drawing conclusions and inference - how will your opponent respond to your choice?
Reevaluation - how you respond when the result is unexpected

Games work on all these skills while also being fun. What could be better? Here are our favorite 10 problem solving games for kids and families!

A note regarding age recommendations. I've included the manufacturer's recommendation, but most games can be played with younger kids, provided an adult is at the ready to assist.

BATTLE SHEEP

Every time you play Battle Sheep the playing space is different! That's because players start with 4 pasture boards that they take turns placing down to create the playing field. Kids are using advance planning and reevaluation right off the bat! Each player begins with 16 sheep and aims towards occupying as many pastures as they can. Players must chose between placing sheep or strategically blocking their opponents. We love this game that engages players' abstract thinking, strategic, and visual perception skills. Ages 7 and up. 2-4 players.

Find it: Amazon

Tsuro game of the path board, box and pieces

The board changes every time you play, keeping players on their toes and constantly reassessing their strategy. Players use tiles to create paths along which they move their tokens. The objective is to create paths in such a way that keep you moving but force your opponents off the board. Players must anticipate other's moves and problem solve in order accomplish both goals. Tsuro is also surprisingly easy to learn! Ages 8 and up. 2-8 players.

MORE : Our favorite tile-based games

Labyrinth board game box with game boards and pieces

Players make their way through an ever-shifting maze in pursuit of treasure. Each player begins with a set number of treasure cards and the player who collects all their treasure first, wins. The board consists of moving panels and on their turn, a player shifts the panels in an effort to further their own progress or hinder that of others. Ages 7 and up. 2-4 players

Kingdomino is a tile placing game in which players must make choices regarding how to build their kingdom. The objective of the game is to score as many points as possible by matching tiles based on terrain. But some terrains score more than others. Players must decide if they want to build a lot of low scoring terrains, or fewer high-scoring terrains. Your tile choice also affects the order of play for the next round so it's important to be thoughtful. We've throughly enjoyed this game. An expansion pack is available. Ages 8 and up. 2-4 players

Find it: Kingdomino | Expansion pack | Queendomino

PHOTOSYNTHESIS

Photosynthesis from Blue Orange Games has an environmental theme. Players focus on growing trees through their life cycle from seed to maturity. Players strategize to "plant" their seeds where they will receive the most light, without being blocked in the future by other, maturing, trees. Successful game play requires planning and analysis. The artwork is beautiful and adds to the unique game play. We have enjoyed playing this game! Ages 8 and up. 2-4 players.

Azul's stunningly colorful game design was inspired by azulejos , a type of decorated ceramic tile introduced to Spain by the Moors and made popular in Portugal by King Manuel I. Players transform into tile laying artists, and must strategize over three phases of game play: choosing tiles, laying them and prepping for the next round. The object is to collect the most points by creating lines of 5 consecutive tiles. Each line of tiles must contain only one of each type of tile. The game ends when one player has completed a row, but that player is not necessarily the winner. Strategic problem solving and planning are required because players can lose points in the wall-tiling phase for any remaining, unused tiles. Ages 8 and up. 2-4 players.

Gobblet looks like Tic Tac Toe but players have large, medium and small pieces that nestle inside each other like Russian dolls. Players attempt to get four in a row by "gobbling" up smaller pieces. The game relies on advance planning, anticipating your opponent's moves and memory skills since you have to remember which Gobblets have been gobbled without peeking! Ages 7 and up. 2 players. A version for ages 5 and up is available as Gobblet Gobblers.

Find it: Gobblet | Gobblet Gobblers

Cat Crimes single player game from ThinkFun

LOGIC GAMES

Logic games are the ultimate problem solving entertainment! We love single player logic games and probably own an unhealthy number of these brain boosting puzzle games.

The following are some of our top favorites:

Cat Crimes , ages 8 and up ( pictured above ) - see it as our game of the month feature
Code Master , ages 8 and up - see it as our game of the month feature
Castle Logix , ages 3 and up - see it as our game of the month feature

Mancala is a classic game every family should have. The board has two rows of depressions, plus end "home" bowls. The goal is to transfer the most stones from the rows into your home. A set of rules govern how you deposit and capture stones. You must use strategy to capture stones and ensure you do not leave them vulnerable to your opponent's greedy, greedy paws. Playing Mancala improves memory and observation skills. You must engage your strategic thinking skills to make sure you don't inadvertently give your opponent the opportunity to thwart you. Ages 8 and up. 2 players.

There's a reason the classic detective board game, Clue, remains so popular. I loved it when I was a kid and I bet you did, too. Players race to be the first person to solve the mystery of the who, what and where of a murder. Clue requires deductive reasoning and logic skills to narrow down the possibilities. Players must also vigilantly observe the actions of other players to help them make logical decisions. Ages 8 and up, 2-6 players ( much better with 3 or more players ).

6 games that improve visual perception
Best award-winning games for each ages
12 best family games for all ages and skill levels

Reader Interactions

10 Ways to Teach Your Children to Be Problem Solvers

Problem-solving is vital in navigating the complexities of life and is best nurtured from a young age. Let’s explore a variety of approaches, each contributing to the development of a child’s ability to think critically and resolve challenges effectively.

Strategy 1: Modeling Problem-Solving Behavior

Parents are the first role models children observe and learn from. Demonstrating problem-solving skills in everyday life plays a crucial role in teaching children how to handle challenges.

Impact of Demonstrating Problem-Solving

Observational Learning: Children learn by observing their parents. When a parent faces a challenge and vocalizes their thought process, it provides a practical, real-world example of problem-solving.
Developing Cognitive Skills: As parents articulate their problem-solving steps, children learn to think critically and analytically. This process helps in developing their cognitive skills.

How to Model Problem-Solving

Think Out Loud: Parents should verbalize their thoughts when encountering a problem. For instance, if deciding between buying different products, explain the pros and cons of each option out loud.
Show Emotion Management: It’s beneficial to express how certain problems make you feel and how you manage these emotions. This teaches emotional regulation alongside problem-solving.
Involve Children in Solutions: For age-appropriate problems, involve children in the decision-making process. Ask for their opinions and discuss the potential outcomes.
Boosts Confidence: When children see their parents tackling problems effectively, it boosts their confidence in handling their issues.
Enhances Critical Thinking: This method promotes critical thinking and decision-making skills in children.
Prepares for Real-life Situations: Children get better prepared for real-life situations, understanding that problems are a normal part of life and can be approached logically and calmly.

Strategy 2: Encouraging Creative Play

Creative play and DIY projects are not just forms of entertainment for children; they are essential tools for developing problem-solving skills.

How Creative Play Fosters Problem-Solving

Stimulates Imagination: Engaging in activities like building forts, crafting, or imaginative play scenarios encourages children to think outside the box, an essential aspect of problem-solving.
Encourages Experimentation: Creative play often involves trial and error, teaching children that it’s okay to fail and try again, a key component of solving problems.
Develops Cognitive Flexibility: When children create and explore in an unstructured environment, they learn to adapt and change their approaches, which is vital in problem-solving.

DIY Projects as Learning Tools

Hands-On Experience: DIY projects provide hands-on opportunities for children to encounter and solve real-world problems. They learn to follow steps, use tools, and understand the process of creating something from start to finish.
Collaborative Problem-Solving: Working on projects with others, including parents or siblings, enhances their ability to work as a team and solve problems together.
Boosts Self-Efficacy: Completing a project successfully instills a sense of accomplishment and confidence in their problem-solving abilities.
Enhances Critical Thinking: Children learn to think critically about how to use materials and what steps to take to achieve their desired outcome.
Promotes Persistence: Creative play teaches persistence as children learn that not every attempt leads to immediate success.
Encourages Independent Thinking: These activities allow children to make decisions, fostering independent thought and decision-making skills.

Strategy 3: Systematic Problem-Solving Approach

A systematic method for problem-solving helps children approach challenges in a more organized and effective manner.

Step-by-Step Problem-Solving Method

Identify emotions:.

Begin by helping children recognize and name their emotions related to the problem (e.g., frustration, confusion). This step is crucial for emotional regulation and clear thinking.

Define the Problem:

Guide children to articulate the problem clearly. Encourage them to state the issue in their own words, which helps in understanding the challenge more deeply.

Brainstorm Solutions:

Encourage children to think of as many solutions as possible, without initially judging the ideas. This brainstorming phase fosters creativity and open-mindedness.

Evaluate Solutions:

Guide children to consider the pros and cons of each solution. Ask questions like, “What could happen if you try this?” to help them think through the outcomes.

Choose a Solution:

Encourage children to select a solution based on their evaluation. This step empowers them to make decisions and take ownership of the problem-solving process.

Implement the Solution:

Guide them in putting their chosen solution into action. This step translates their theoretical understanding into practical application.

Reflect on the Outcome:

After the solution has been implemented, discuss with children what worked well and what could be improved. This reflection helps in learning from the experience.

Develops Critical Thinking: This approach enhances critical thinking skills by requiring children to analyze problems and consider various solutions.
Encourages Independence: By following these steps, children learn to rely on their own abilities to solve problems.
Builds Resilience: Children learn that not every problem is solved on the first try, which builds resilience and persistence.

Strategy 4: Reading and Discussing Problem-Solving Stories

Stories and books are powerful tools for teaching problem-solving. They offer relatable scenarios where characters face and overcome challenges, providing real-life lessons in a fictional setting.

Using Stories to Teach Problem-Solving

Selecting appropriate books:.

Choose stories that focus on characters solving problems. Books like “Ladybug Girl and Bumblebee Boy” by Jacky Davis and “The Curious George Series” by Margaret and H.E. Rey are great examples where characters face and resolve dilemmas.

Discussion During Reading:

Engage children in discussions about the story. Ask questions like, “What problem is the character facing?” and “How did they solve it?” This helps children understand the problem-solving process.

Relating to Personal Experiences:

Encourage children to connect the story’s events to their own lives. Discuss how they might handle similar situations, fostering empathy and personal connection.

Encouraging Active Participation:

Have children predict outcomes or suggest alternative solutions for the characters. This engages their critical thinking and imagination.

Role-Playing:

Involve children in role-playing exercises based on the stories. Acting out different scenarios helps solidify the problem-solving methods demonstrated by the characters.

Enhances Comprehension: Discussing the story’s problems and solutions improves children’s comprehension and analytical skills.
Builds Empathy: Identifying with characters and their challenges helps develop empathy and emotional intelligence.
Encourages Creative Thinking: By exploring different solutions within a safe, fictional context, children can expand their creative problem-solving abilities.

Strategy 5: Promoting Autonomy and Learning from Failure

Fostering autonomy in children is a critical aspect of their development. It involves allowing them to make decisions, take risks, and, most importantly, learn from their mistakes.

Allowing Mistakes and Failures

Avoiding Helicopter Parenting: Overprotective or “helicopter” parenting can hinder a child’s ability to develop problem-solving skills. Allowing children to face challenges and sometimes fail teaches them resilience and self-reliance.
Learning Opportunities : Mistakes and failures are valuable learning opportunities. They teach children that not every attempt will be successful and that persistence is key.
Encouraging Risk-Taking: Encourage children to take calculated risks. This helps them learn to weigh options and make decisions based on their judgments.

Guiding Through Failures

Supportive Environment: Create a supportive environment where children feel safe to fail. Encourage them to try again and guide them through the process of analyzing what went wrong.
Constructive Feedback: Provide constructive feedback that focuses on the effort and strategy rather than the outcome. This approach helps children understand that failure is a part of the learning process.
Builds Problem-Solving Skills: Experiencing failure and learning to overcome it is an integral part of developing problem-solving skills.
Promotes Growth Mindset: It encourages a growth mindset where children understand that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work.
Enhances Emotional Intelligence: Learning from failures helps children manage their emotions and cope with setbacks in a healthy manner.

Strategy 6: Utilizing Open-Ended Questions

Open-ended questions are a powerful tool in encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving in children. These questions do not have a predetermined answer, allowing children to explore their thoughts and ideas freely.

Implementing Open-Ended Questions:

Types of Questions: Ask questions that cannot be answered with a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Examples include, “How could we solve this problem together?” or “What do you think would happen if…?”
Encouraging Explanation: Prompt children to explain their reasoning with questions like, “How did you come to that conclusion?” or “Can you tell me more about your thought process?”
Fostering Imagination: Use questions that encourage children to use their imagination, such as “What would you do if you were in this situation?” or “How would you handle this differently?”

Benefits of Open-Ended Questions:

Develops Problem-Solving Skills: These questions make children contemplate different aspects of a problem and potential solutions, enhancing their problem-solving abilities.
Enhances Communication Skills: Open-ended questions require children to articulate their thoughts clearly, improving their communication skills.
Builds Confidence: As children express their ideas and are heard, it boosts their self-esteem and confidence in their abilities.

Creating a Supportive Environment:

Active Listening: Actively listen to the child’s responses without interrupting. This shows that their thoughts and opinions are valued.
Non-Judgmental Responses: Respond to their answers in a non-judgmental way, encouraging them to share more freely.
Encourage Exploration: Encourage children to explore different answers and viewpoints, reinforcing that there are often multiple ways to approach a problem.

Strategy 7: Fostering Open-Mindedness

Teaching children to be open-minded is crucial for developing effective problem-solving skills. It involves considering various perspectives and integrating different views into solutions.

Encouraging Multiple Perspectives:

Understanding Different Viewpoints: Encourage children to think about how others might view a situation. Ask questions like, “What do you think someone else would do in this case?” or “Can you think of a different way to look at this problem?”
Empathy in Problem-Solving: Teach children to consider the feelings and perspectives of others involved in a problem. This not only helps in finding more compassionate solutions but also in building strong interpersonal skills.

Integrating Diverse Solutions:

Combining Ideas: Encourage children to combine different ideas to find a novel solution. This could involve brainstorming sessions where multiple solutions are discussed and combined.
Learning from Different Cultures: Expose children to problem-solving methods from different cultures and backgrounds. This broadens their understanding and appreciation of diverse approaches.
Enhances Creativity: Open-mindedness in problem-solving fosters creativity, as children learn to think outside their usual boundaries.
Builds Critical Thinking: Considering multiple perspectives requires children to critically evaluate each viewpoint, enhancing their critical thinking skills.
Promotes Tolerance and Understanding: Fostering open-mindedness helps children develop tolerance and understanding towards different ideas and cultures.

Strategy 8: Incorporating Problem-Solving into Family Culture

Integrating problem-solving into family culture involves turning everyday challenges into learning opportunities and making this practice an enjoyable part of family life.

Practical Ways to Integrate Problem-Solving:

Family Meetings: Regular family meetings can be an effective way to discuss and solve family issues together. It encourages collaboration and collective decision-making.
Shared Challenges: Involve the entire family in solving practical problems, such as planning a family vacation or budgeting for a big purchase. This teaches children the value of planning and compromise.
Fun Problem-Solving Activities: Incorporate games and activities that involve problem-solving skills, like puzzles, strategy games, or scavenger hunts. This makes the process fun and engaging.

Encouraging a Positive Attitude Towards Challenges:

Modeling Positivity: Show a positive attitude when facing challenges, demonstrating that problems are opportunities for growth and learning.
Celebrating Solutions: Whenever a problem is solved, whether it’s big or small, celebrate the achievement. This reinforces problem-solving as a positive and rewarding experience.
Fosters Teamwork: Engaging in family problem-solving activities helps in building teamwork and cooperation skills.
Develops Practical Life Skills: Children learn practical life skills that are essential for their future, like financial planning, time management, and organization.
Strengthens Family Bonds: Working together on problems strengthens family relationships and fosters a sense of unity and support.

Strategy 9: Engaging in Role-Playing Activities

Role-playing is an effective educational tool that allows children to simulate real-life situations. It provides a safe environment to practice problem-solving skills by acting out various scenarios.

Implementing Role-Playing in Problem-Solving:

Creating Scenarios: Develop scenarios that children are likely to encounter, such as resolving a disagreement with a friend or handling a difficult situation at school. These should be age-appropriate and relevant to their experiences.
Encouraging Different Perspectives: In role-playing, children can take on different roles, allowing them to see a problem from various viewpoints. This helps them understand the importance of empathy and considering multiple perspectives in problem-solving.
Guided Discussion: After the role-play, have a discussion about the experience. Ask questions like, “How did you feel in that role?” or “What could have been done differently to solve the problem?”
Enhances Communication Skills: Role-playing requires children to articulate their thoughts and feelings, improving their communication skills.
Builds Emotional Intelligence: By putting themselves in someone else’s shoes, children develop empathy and emotional understanding.
Practical Application of Skills: It allows children to apply problem-solving strategies in a controlled, low-stakes environment, helping them internalize these skills.

Variations of Role-Playing:

Use of Props and Costumes: Incorporating props and costumes can make the activity more engaging and realistic.
Incorporating Real-life Situations: Use real-life events as a basis for role-playing scenarios. This makes the exercise more relevant and practical.

Strategy 10: Encouraging Reflective Thinking

Reflective thinking is a critical component of the learning process. It involves looking back at the steps taken during problem-solving, analyzing the effectiveness of different strategies, and considering what could be improved.

Process of Reflective Thinking:

After-Action Review: After a problem has been addressed, encourage children to reflect on the process. Ask questions like, “What part of our solution worked well?” or “What challenges did we face, and how did we overcome them?”
Encouraging Honesty and Openness: Create an environment where children feel comfortable discussing both successes and failures openly. This honesty is crucial for genuine reflection and growth.
Focus on Learning, Not Just Outcome: Emphasize the importance of the learning process over the outcome. This approach helps children understand that the value lies not only in solving the problem but also in the lessons learned along the way.
Improves Problem-Solving Skills: Reflective thinking helps children understand what strategies are effective and which are not, refining their problem-solving skills over time.
Fosters a Growth Mindset: It promotes the idea that skills and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work.
Builds Self-Awareness: Reflecting on one’s own thought processes and decisions enhances self-awareness and personal development.

Guiding Children in Reflective Thinking:

Modeling Reflection: Demonstrate reflective thinking yourself. After solving a problem, talk about what you learned from the experience and what you might do differently next time.
Writing Journals: Encourage children to keep a journal where they can write down their thoughts about different problems they encounter and how they solved them. This can be a powerful tool for reflection.

Empowering the Next Generation: Fostering Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving at Las Vegas Day School

As we navigate a world that is increasingly complex and interconnected, equipping our children with the ability to think critically and solve problems is more important than ever. By implementing these strategies, parents and educators can provide children with the tools they need to face challenges confidently and effectively.

For families looking to further support their children’s educational journey, Las Vegas Day School (LVDS) offers an encouraging environment where these skills can be honed and developed. LVDS emphasizes a well-rounded approach to learning, where problem-solving is integrated into the curriculum, preparing students not just for academic success but for life-long resilience and adaptability. Visit LVDS to learn more about their programs and how they can support your child’s growth into a confident problem-solver and independent thinker.

Las Vegas Day School

Summer programs registration.

For LVDS Students Only

Is your child/children currently enrolled or have an upcoming enrollment at LVDS?

Financial Information
Schedule a Tour
School Information
Director’s Message
Campus Tour
Kinderschool Program
Elementary School Program
Middle School Program
Guidance Counseling
Student Activities
Summer Programs
Uniform Store
Family Portal

Register for First Class
Book FREE Trial Now

The Importance of Problem Solving Skills in Children

Children gain from problem-solving in a variety of ways. It is beneficial to them.

Deal with problems in regular life.
Make sound judgments.
Along the way, learn additional skills including teamwork, critical thinking, and collaboration.
Problems should be solved without being broken down.
Consider thinking beyond the box.
Develop your independence.

How to Teach Children Problem-Solving Skills?

Here are a few ideas for encouraging your child to use their problem-solving abilities.

Put it to the Test!

Encourage your youngster to accept the challenge when they are confronted with a problem. If the outcomes are unsuccessful, they might try different strategies.

Your child will be able to think about a subject from several angles as a result.

Seek Counsel

Decision-making is a tough task. For example, you could have difficulty deciding what to prepare for supper or what to wear to the movies. Asking your children for assistance in decisions is an excellent choice.

When you approach them for guidance, they believe that they are not alone in their struggles. When you appreciate their ideas, they will gain the confidence to tackle challenges on their own.

Take a Long, Deep Breath.

Maintaining your calm in difficult situations is one of the first steps toward effective problem-solving. Even among children, when their emotions run wild, it is difficult to think sensibly, and the temptation to make rash judgments increases.

It is critical to encourage your youngster to take deep breaths whenever they feel out of control of their emotions. They can better appraise the problem once they are calm.

State the Issue Verbally.

Your child should openly express how they feel and what they are going through when they have calmed down. It provides them with a distinct perspective and facilitates the generation of alternate solutions.

Do not give “The Solution”

It is not a good idea to provide immediate solutions to children’s problems. Instead, provide them with advice to assist them in solving the problem on their own. This will help them to think about solutions that are beneficial to them.

Set a Good Example

Children quickly absorb knowledge like sponges. Therefore, when you approach an issue and find a workable solution, children will be inspired by your strategy and want to follow you.

Allow the Natural Consequences to Play out.

Allowing a situation to take its course is sometimes the best approach to dealing with it. So, if your child encounters a challenge, let them be.

Assume your child spent their entire weekly allowance in a day or two; allow them to go the entire week without receiving any money. This will position them to make better decisions in the future.

15 Problem Solving Activities for Kids

There is no better way to learn than by playing. The following exercises are enjoyable and challenge youngsters to demonstrate their problem-solving abilities.

Riddles

Riddles for kids are fantastic games for problem-solving. They come at various levels of difficulty. The appropriate one may be chosen based on your child’s age.

If you give children a puzzle, they will learn to consider the issue or question, generate potential answers, and select one.

Additionally, the practice will help students improve their hand-eye coordination, gross motor skills, and critical thinking. Also, if your kids have a way with words then what better than to engage them in wordle for kids !

Scavenger Quest

Scavenger hunts are an instructive activity that every parent should offer to their children. It is a low-cost, easy, and entertaining activity that can be practiced both inside and outside and just requires materials you already have at home.

The activity encourages youngsters to think beyond the box. They are pleasantly acquiring problem-solving skills without even realizing it.

Storybooks

The advantages of reading are countless. Problem-solving is one of them. While reading, children are introduced to several characters and their roles. They frequently connect with these figures. Undoubtedly, stories for kids are great resources to stimulate their minds!

So, if kids encounter an issue, ask them how their favourite character would solve it. Encourage them to produce as many options as they can and discuss the results of each.

Arts and Crafts

Another fantastic technique to educate youngsters about problem-solving abilities is via arts and crafts. Give your child a variety of things from around the house. Allow them to create fantastic creations or repair damaged devices or toys. Also checkout art hub for kids that can provide an immersive experience to your little ones!

Give them complete freedom to do their task and only offer guidance when they are running out of ideas. And if your kids like to be more hands-on then check out crafts for kids !

Free-Form Questions

Asking open-ended questions is an excellent method to help your child think creatively and critically and develop their problem-solving abilities.

As there are no right or wrong answers to these questions, and the answer extends beyond a simple “no” or “yes,” they must give some consideration to their responses.

The questions mentioned in the image above are some examples of open-ended questions.

Maze

Mazes are enjoyable and safe for people of all ages. Working on mazes forces them to think. The practice also helps them strengthen their motor skills, observation skills, sense of direction, and problem-solving abilities.

Think beyond book mazes. There are other maze games available on the internet. They will get better at finding their way out with practice. You may eventually give them increasingly difficult mazes to solve.

A Little Treasure Quest

The whole family can enjoy a treasure hunt. If they believe they will succeed, you can maintain their concentration on the task at hand.

Give them tips that encourage them to use their imaginations and resolve issues to win the prize.

Toy Construction

Give your kids building materials like LEGO, wood blocks, engineering blocks, etc., and let them construct anything they want.

Toy construction requires your child to consider what to make, how to assemble the parts, and produce creative solutions to make sure the design is functional.

You can occasionally ask them to build something challenging, like a monster with three arms or two buildings joined by a bridge. Watch as they struggle to come up with a structure.

Woollen Web

Each child should be given a piece of colorful yarn, and they should be told to construct a circle. The yarn ball is passed from one person to the next by wrapping their finger around it.

Once everyone got an opportunity to hold the ball and wrap the yarn around their finger, a web would begin to grow. Now, blindfold one person and instruct them to unwind the web by following the vocal directions of the others.

To figure out a way out, this group exercise requires collaboration, attention, patience, coordination, concentration, and problem-solving abilities.

The Human Knot

It is a simple game, but very entertaining. A group of youngsters is required for this game. Form a circle with the youngsters and have them raise their hands.

Begin with one player, who must use their right hand to grasp a player’s hand from across the circle and their left hand to grasp someone else’s hand. Examine whether everyone has held both hands with various players.

They must now detangle themselves without breaking the circle. When everyone’s hands are free and they are back in the circle, the challenge is over.

Improvised Skits

Form teams out of the players. On pieces of paper, write out several scenarios, such as coping with bullying at school or resolving a quarrel between siblings, folding them, and arranging them in a bowl.

Each team or participant chooses a chit and executes the scenario. You may give them a deadline to get ready. These impromptu activities help kids see a problem, come up with a solution, and implement it.

Group Drawing

Another excellent team-building activity for developing children’s problem-solving skills is group sketching. Form groups of three youngsters.

Each of the team’s three members has a certain function to play. The teacher comes next. The instructor is the one who offers the drawer verbal directions on how to draw a certain design.

The spectator examines the design. However, they are not permitted to speak and must interact with the instructor by using gestures. When the viewer is happy with the drawer’s image, you have a winner. Allow the kids to take turns playing various parts.

Give me a Hint!

Clue Me In is an entertaining detective game that promotes cognitive growth, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Begin by choosing five to six target responses, such as a prominent figure, an animal, a historical event, a societal trend, or a career. Collect five to ten objects related to each goal answer. They might also be images from the Internet.

Sort them into various bags. Determine how many hints a child can select before making a guess. If there are two, let the youngster choose two clues from a bag and make their first guess. See who can respond the fastest.

Survivor Case Studies

Here is another game where no items are required. In this game, you must construct pretend-play scenarios for youngsters to solve, and they must analyze and think creatively to do so.

For example, tell them, “You’re stranded on an island, and you know aid won’t arrive for two days” or “How will you build a shelter for yourself out of the materials around you?”

Kids are encouraged by this to think of many scenarios and come up with solutions to the problem. There are many programs for kids .

Ethical Quandary

Children are frequently put in challenging circumstances. This simple game will help children deal with these situations without them even being aware of them.

Write down several difficulties on pieces of paper, such as “The cashier handed me $1 more in change; what should I do?” or “I watched my friend harassing someone at school.” Should I intervene or let them go? Fold it up and put it in a bowl.

Give each child the opportunity to select one piece of paper, read it aloud, and provide creative solutions to the problem at hand.

Are you interested to know more about kids coding languages ? Checkout here!

Problem-solving is a crucial skill to have. Guiding kids in this decision-making skill not only enhances their thinking and creative ability but also trains them to face problems in the future and figure out good decisions.

The above-mentioned activities for kids are some of those, that will help them develop decision-making skills.

To learn more about problem-solving activities for kids, check out the fun yet amazing articles on the BrightCHAMPS blog.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Children are believed to have learned the basics of problem-solving by the age of three. However, it is not perfected since it is hampered by a short attention span and trouble grasping problems on its own. Children grow better at solving problems as they get older.

The three most prevalent problem-solving techniques are: ● Trial and error: trying several solutions to an issue until it is solved. ● Algorithm: The process of solving a problem by following a step-by-step formula. ● Following a problem-solving framework, such as breaking it down into steps, is a heuristic.

These games can help you improve your problem-solving, planning, multitasking, and pattern-identification skills. ● Crossword puzzles. ● Sudoku puzzles. ● Jigsaw puzzles. ● Chess. Board games. ● Computer games. ● List games.

Creative problem-solving is a technique that employs imagination and invention. This technique encourages the creative aspect of issue resolution and allows for the generation of fresh ideas in novel ways. It also makes the process more enjoyable and fosters teamwork. To get your hands on more educational and free resources on coding for kids , robotics for kids, financial education for kids , etc., do check out the BrightCHAMPS Page now!

Team BrightChamps

Email Address

Free Kids Coding Resources 📕

Receive a copy of our Top 10 FREE Resources for your Kids

Success🎉 Check your email for more info!

Get a talent discovery certificate after trial class.

100% Risk-Free. No Credit Card Required

Navigating Parenthood: Simple Tips for Dealing with Behavioral Challenges in Kids

by admin | Apr 9, 2024

Parenting is a journey filled with joys, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the most common challenges parents face is...

Easing the Burden of Anxiety: Practical Tips for Parenting Anxious Teens

by Team BrightChamps | Feb 15, 2024

The adolescent years are a time of profound growth and change, marked by the pursuit of identity, independence, and the navigation of social...

Ready, Set, School! Simple Advice for Parents on School Readiness

by Team BrightChamps | Feb 13, 2024

Preparing children for school is like laying the foundation for a sturdy building. Just as a solid foundation ensures a structure's stability,...

Financial Literacy Activities for High School Students: Engaging and Practical Learning

by Team BrightChamps | Apr 10, 2024

As young adults step into the world of independence and responsibility, the importance of financial literacy cannot be overstated. Equipped with the...

Online Learning Platforms for Kids: A Comprehensive Guide

Over the past few years, online learning platforms for kids has seen a significant rise in popularity. This trend has been fueled by various...

The Pathway 2 Success

Solutions for Social Emotional Learning & Executive Functioning

Teaching Social Problem-Solving with a Free Activity

February 3, 2018 by pathway2success 5 Comments

Facebook 77

How to Teach Social Problem Solving with a Free Activity Solving

Kids and young adults need to be able to problem-solve on their own. Every day, kids are faced with a huge number of social situations and challenges. Whether they are just having a conversation with a peer, working with a group on a project, or dealing with an ethical dilemma, kids must use their social skills and knowledge to help them navigate tough situations. Ideally, we want kids to make positive choices entirely on their own. Of course, we know that kids don’t start off that way. They need to learn how to collaborate, communicate, cooperate, negotiate, and self-advocate.

Social problem solving skills are critical skills to learn for kids with autism, ADHD, and other social challenges. Of course, all kids and young adults benefit from these skills. They fit perfectly into a morning meeting discussion or advisory periods for older kids. Not only are these skills that kids will use in your classroom, but throughout their entire lives. They are well worth the time to teach!

Here are 5 steps to help kids learn social problem solving skills:

1. Teach kids to communicate their feelings. Being able to openly and respectfully share emotions is a foundational element to social problem solving. Teaching I statements can be a simple and effective way to kids to share their feelings. With an I statement, kids will state, “I feel ______ when _____.” The whole idea is that this type of statement allows someone to share how their feeling without targeting or blaming anyone else. Helping kids to communicate their emotions can solve many social problems from the start and encourages positive self-expression.

2. Discuss and model empathy. In order for kids to really grasp problem-solving, they need to learn how to think about the feelings of others. Literature is a great way teach and practice empathy! Talk about the feelings of characters within texts you are reading, really highlighting how they might feel in situations and why. Ask questions like, “How might they feel? Why do you think they felt that way? Would you feel the same in that situation? Why or why not?” to help teach emerging empathy skills. You can also make up your own situations and have kids share responses, too.

3. Model problem-solving skills. When a problem arises, discuss it and share some solutions how you might go forward to fix it. For example, you might say, “I was really expecting to give the class this math assignment today but I just found out we have an assembly. This wasn’t in my plans. I could try to give part of it now or I could hold off and give the assignment tomorrow instead. It’s not perfect, but I think I’ll wait that way we can go at the pace we need to.” This type of think-aloud models the type of thinking that kids should be using when a problem comes up.

4. Use social scenarios to practice. Give a scenario and have kids consider how that person might feel in that situation. Discuss options for what that person might do to solve the problem, possible consequences for their choices, and what the best decision might be. Kids can consider themselves social detectives by using the clues and what they know about social rules to help them figure out the solution. These are especially fun in small groups to have kids discuss collaboratively. Use these free social problem solving cards to start your kids off practicing!

5. Allow kids to figure it out. Don’t come to the rescue when a child or young adult has a problem. As long as it’s not a serious issue, give them time to think about it and use their problem-solving skills on their own. Of course, it’s much easier to have an adult solve all the problems but that doesn’t teach the necessary skills. When a child comes to you asking for your help with a social problem, encourage them to think about it for five minutes before coming back to you. By that point, they might have already figured out possible solutions and ideas and might not even need you anymore.

If you are interested in helping your kids learn social problem solving skills right away, consider trying out these Social Problem Solving Task Cards . They highlight real social scenarios and situations that kids can discuss. The scenarios include a variety of locations, such as in classrooms, with family, with friends, at recess, and at lunch. This set is targeted for elementary-age learners.

Social Scenario Problem Solving Task Cards

Of course, older kids need social problem solving skills, too! If you work with older kids, you will love these Social Problem Solving Task Cards for Middle and High School Kids. These situations target age-appropriate issues that come up in classes, with friends, with family, in the hallway, in the cafeteria, and with online and texting.

Social Problem Solving Task Cards for Middle and High School

Remember that teaching social problem skills does take a little bit of planning and effort, but it will be well worth the time! Kids will use these skills to help them make social decisions in their everyday lives now and in the future!

Social Problem Solving with a Free Activity

Find It Fast

Privacy Policy
Join Pathway 2 Success
Social Emotional Learning Toolkit
Self-Control Resources

pathway2success1

⭐ Kristina 💖 SEL & Executive Functioning 💻 Blogger at www.thepathway2success.com 👩‍🏫 Special Educator turned Curriculum Specialist Links here 👇

IMAGES

Free Problem Solving for Kids School Counseling Printable
Problem Solving Printable Flash Cards Social Skills Cards
Problem Solving Scenarios (School) by MsJocelyn
25 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids
Problem-Solving Scenarios ESL
71+ Free Social Problem-Solving Scenarios

COMMENTS

30 Problem Solving Scenarios for Kids & Teens
Find 30 problem solving scenarios for kids and teens to practice social skills and functional words. Download the list of scenarios and use them at home or in therapy.
44 Powerful Problem Solving Activities for Kids
Learn why problem-solving skills are important for kids and how to teach them with fun games, puzzles, and activities. Find out the simple steps to solve problems and get access to a free social emotional curriculum.
25 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids
Learn how to teach kids problem-solving skills with tips, strategies, and examples. Explore 25 fun problem-solving games and activities for different ages and situations.
17 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids
Learn how to teach kids problem solving skills with creative and engaging activities that involve puzzles, mazes, marbles, balloons, and more. These activities help kids think critically, spatially, and creatively in different situations and contexts.
Critical Thinking: 11 Problem Solving Activities for Kids
Learn why problem solving skills are important for child development and how to teach them with fun and effective activities. Find games, challenges, and resources to help kids define, generate, evaluate, and implement solutions to various problems.
15 Fun Problem-Solving Activities for Growth Mindset
Learn how to teach kids critical thinking and growth mindset with these engaging and educational games. From rolling dice to solving puzzles, from scavenger hunt to human knot, discover 15 problem solving activities for kids of all ages.
Problem-Solving Skills for Kids: 10+ Games, Activities & Worksheets
Learn how to teach kids to think creatively, critically, and resiliently with problem-solving skills. Find fun and engaging games, activities, and worksheets to help children face challenges and make decisions in real life.
20 Engaging Problem-Solving Activities for Kids
Explore 20 fun problem-solving activities for kids that enhance critical thinking and teamwork. Ideal for parents and teachers looking to support children's development in a fun and educational way.
15 Fun Problem-Solving Activities for Kids & Teens
Learn how to develop problem-solving skills in kids and teens with fun and engaging activities, from coding courses to tower building to sudoku. Find out how to challenge students of different ages and interests with various levels of difficulty and creativity.
26 Powerful Problem Solving Activities for Kids
Are you looking for innovative ways to boost your child's problem-solving skills?Discover a treasure trove of problem solving activities for kids in our latest blog. It's packed with creative, fun, and educational ideas that are perfect to do at home.Imagine your child developing critical thinking, creativity, and resilience while engaging in activities like indoor rock climbing, cooking ...
14 Best Problem-Solving Activities for Kids
Learn how to teach your kids effective problem-solving skills with fun and engaging activities. From jigsaw puzzles and treasure maps to obstacle courses and Monopoly Junior, discover the best problem-solving games for kids of all ages.
How to Teach Your Kid Problem-Solving Skills Through Games and Activities
You've decided to teach your kids problem-solving skills, but you're not 100% sure where to start? What kind of problem-solving activities are best for kids? Are there any games that can be helpful to developing problem solving skills?
Problem Solving for Kids: How-To Guide, Activities & Strategies
Learn how to teach kids social problem-solving skills to cope with challenges in their daily life. Find out the key steps, tips, and milestones for developing problem-solving abilities in children of different ages.
Problem Solving Scenarios for Kids
Learn how to teach kids social problem solving skills with hypothetical scenarios. Find examples of scenarios for different situations and levels of difficulty.
Fun and Effective Problem Solving Scenarios for Elementary Students
Key Takeaways Problem-solving skills are crucial for the development of elementary students, aiding in academic, personal, and social growth. Fun and engaging scenarios can effectively teach these skills, including situations like The Lost Toy, The Broken Pencil, and The Group Project. Teaching specific problem-solving strategies, encouraging critical thinking, and fostering collaboration and ...
Problem Solving for Kids
In this blog, we've got ideas and activities to explore how you can help to develop problem solving for kids with your child.
7 Fun Problem Solving Activities to Support Kids' Growth
Join your child in creative play and gently guide them towards scenarios that require problem solving. For instance, if you're playing school, take on the role of a student who doesn't want to do the assigned activity.
Problem Solving 101: 8 Size of the Problem Activities for Kids
These size of the problem activities for kids help children learn how big or small their problems are, and how to react accordingly.
10 Problem Solving Games for Kids
Best critical thinking and problem solving board game for kids and families to work on strategy, advance planning and logic skills.
10 Ways to Teach Your Children to Be Problem Solvers
How Creative Play Fosters Problem-Solving Stimulates Imagination: Engaging in activities like building forts, crafting, or imaginative play scenarios encourages children to think outside the box, an essential aspect of problem-solving. Encourages Experimentation: Creative play often involves trial and error, teaching children that it's okay to fail and try again, a key component of solving ...
Top 15 Problem Solving Activities for Kids [2022 List]
These impromptu activities help kids see a problem, come up with a solution, and implement it. Group Drawing. Another excellent team-building activity for developing children's problem-solving skills is group sketching. Form groups of three youngsters. Each of the team's three members has a certain function to play.
Teaching Social Problem-Solving with a Free Activity
If you are interested in helping your kids learn social problem solving skills right away, consider trying out these Social Problem Solving Task Cards. They highlight real social scenarios and situations that kids can discuss.
15 Fun Activities To Teach Problem Solving To Kids
Learn about the importance of problem-solving for kids in this post. We also list a few activities you could do with your child to improve this skill in them.

30 Problem Solving Scenarios for Speech Therapy Practice

Explore Our Goal Reaching, Client Centered Products

SEE ALSO: Houston We Have a Problem! Activities for Problem Solving

SEE ALSO: The Best Free App for Speech Therapy

SEE ALSO: The Best Books for Speech Therapy Practice

Freebies, Activities, and Specials, Oh My! Sign up for Terrific Therapy Activity Emails

Top Free Resources

Word Vault Essential

# 1 Chronological Age Calculator

Popular Materials

Multiple Meaning Word Mega Pack

Complete Articulation Word Search

New! 111 Articulation Stories

Teaching the Sound Books

Multi-Syllabic Words Flashcards

Apps to Save You Time & Help Your Clients

This App Will Get Your Kids Talking

25 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids

Problem-Solving Steps

Development of Problem-Solving Skills in Childhood

Benefits of Developing Problem-Solving Skills in Children

10+ Helpful Tips to Teach Kids Problem-Solving Skills

10 Examples of Problem-Solving Strategies

Best Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Problem-Solving Board Games

Learning Problem-Solving with Card Games

Problem-Solving Worksheets

One Comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

17 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids

So, Why Is It Important To Teach Kids Problem Solving?

17 Fun Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

2. The Tower Challenge

3. The Egg Drop Challenge

4. The Penny Drop Challenge

5. The Balloon Race Challenge

6. The Marshmallow Challenge

7. The Balloon Pop Challenge

8. Picture Pieces Puzzle Game

9. Copy the Block Model

10. Team Scavenger Hunt

11. Obstacle Course

12. Reading Storybooks

13. Ask Them Open-Ended Questions

14. Build Various Structures with Toys

15. Acting Out Skits

16. Solving Moral Dilemmas

17. Animal Pairing Game

How Problem Solving in Childhood Helps in Adulthood

Final Thoughts About Fun Problem Solving Activities For Kids

8 Types of Preschool Programs for Kids in 2024

60 Famous Quotes About Reading, Books & Writing for All Ages

15 Best Problem Solving Activities: Foster Critical Thinking

1. Rolling Dice

Math & ELA | PreK To Grade 5

15 Best Problem Solving Activities for Kids

11. Wool Web

12. Fingertip Hula Hoop

13. Obstacle Course

14. Memory Games

15. Impromptu Plays

Why Are Problem Solving Skills Important for Kids?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

What is problem solving learning?

At what age do children begin problem-solving?

What are three problem-solving techniques

15 Fun and Educational Body Part Activities for Kids

Most Popular

76 Best Report Card Comments Samples for Teachers

117 Best Riddles for Kids (With Answers)

40 Best Good Vibes Quotes to Brighten Your Day

Math & ELA | PreK To Grade 5

Back-to-School Learning Boost!

Problem-Solving Skills for Kids: 10+ Games, Activities & Worksheets

What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

Why Kids Need Problem-Solving Skills?

Building Resilience

Fostering Independence

Teamwork and Collaboration