Toddlers, Preschoolers and Problem Solving

We have all observed a toddler or preschoolers ingenuity with solving problems. They may use a straw as a spoon, they may use any number of objects as a hammer. They realize that to get to something they want to reach they have to stack boxes and climb or open drawers on a dresser to use it as a ladder. While some of these may cause panic in parents and caregivers they are all great signs that the toddler is learning to solve problems on their own. Naturally caution needs to be observed so that the child's safety is the priority.

It is crucial for parents and caregivers to realize that at times the best thing they can do when they see their child facing an obstacle is to stand back and let them find the solution. How else can they possibly gain the critical thinking skills necessary to do the task themselves. This critical thinking process is key as the child grows, matures and finally becomes an adult.

Certain toys are great for teaching children cause and effect. For instance a jack in the box. The child knows that if they crank the handle eventually Jack will pop out. Or a peg board with a hammer where the child learns that hammering down the different shaped pegs causes them to have to turn the board over to continue hammering. These are great toys and there are so many like them that teach cause and effect and don't cost a lot of money.

Puzzles are great for kids for many reasons. This gives a child spatial reasoning as well as critical thinking and problem solving techniques. Just think of the steps a child goes through as they do a wooden puzzle that may have different animals that they have to match and put in the right spot. The child first identifies which picture looks like the puzzle piece they are holding, they then go to put the piece in the appropriate spot (motor skills), when it doesn't work the child realizes that turning and twisting it will eventually make it fit. This is a great key for learning how to solve problems. It teaches the brain that you just keep working at something but keep trying different ways to solve the problem.

By providing interesting and stimulating (this does not mean high volume or high dollars) toys for your toddler and preschooler you will foster the ability to solve problems. Also, you will find yourself with a much more content toddler and a happier child overall. After all, these skills build self confidence and a child's work is his play. Early childhood development is important. Remember that you can help your child gain further skills if needed by enrolling them in preschools (if old enough) and play or preschool groups with structured activities are great.