Teaching Kids To Become Problem Solvers

If not adequately taught, kids might end up becoming the type who gives up quickly. That is why parents should know how to teach kids to become problem-solvers. There will come a time that challenges may seem unbearable to kids. Especially when the problem or challenge is new to them, parents can easily hear them give up and say they cannot do it.

However, there are ways that Psychology Today suggests to help teach kids how to be problem-solvers and resourceful.

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Some of these ways are simply asking kids what to do when specific scenarios come up.

Experts suggest that parents become patient and allow their kids to try solving problems on their own.

1. Encourage your child

Sometimes, kids only need a little push to see how things will work out according to their favor. Telling kids, "So, this is hard, but you're smart."

Parents may also encourage their kids by asking them for steps that they can do to solve the problem. Remind them that even if it is just a tiny step, it may come a long way.

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2. Maximize the technology at hand

Because of the affordance of the Internet, information is always at the tip of one's fingertips.

One way of teaching kids how to be problem-solvers is by telling them to utilize their resources, such as the Internet.

When the situation calls for it, parents may ask, "Should you try Google? And if so, what's the best search term?"

If there is nothing on the Internet that could help, then the old but reliable books can probably do the trick. If necessary, parents may opt to buy a book for their children to help them solve the problem or learn how to be resourceful in solving a specific problem.

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3. Teach them to ask for help when necessary

Part of teaching kids how to become problem solvers is by allowing them to acknowledge that there are things that could be solved through other people's help.

One thing that you may ask your kid is, "Is there anyone you think you should ask for help?"

If the child is hesitant to ask for help, explain to them that many people are interested in helping. Also, asking for help is different from giving up.

By asking for help, kids are also becoming resourceful in solving problems when they recognize that another person can help them solve the challenge in front of them.

When the kid asks for help, they should be prepared to ask what they want to know or what kind of help they need. 

Experts also say that teaching kids how to be problem-solvers does not mean that parents should no longer be involved. According to Dr. Mark Gouldston, "The wise parent stays only moderately involved both for the child's benefit and their own."

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