Do you ever find yourself watching your child with a bit of wonder and astonishment, wondering why the simplest of tasks has become so monumental? Wondering why the smallest of roadblocks sometimes results in tears? Read on to find some ways to help your child develop his or her ability to overcome obstacles big and small.
As adults, we problem-solve throughout the day without necessarily being conscious of doing so. We might have to do little things such as to adapt our morning routine if we wake up a little late, take a detour on the way to work, tweak the dinner plan because an ingredient wasn’t available… Or we might have to problem-solve in a big way to resolve a disagreement with our spouse or come up with a care plan for an aging or ill parent.
Our children’s problems may not be like ours – they will need to resolve disagreements with playmates, figure out how to make a toy work, or figure out what to do when their zipper jams or their shoe comes untied. Here are some ways you can help your child be a better problem-solver.
As your children grow up, their problem-solving will change. There will be larger friendship disagreements, there will be schoolwork projects, there will be math homework and sports competitions and many, many more problems (small ones and bigger ones!) to solve. Helping your child to work out the process of thinking about solutions, outcomes, and consequences will help set the foundation for your child’s success.
But as with all aspects of your child’s development, this will be an ongoing process which often takes time and coaching. But the benefit of this process is that you will be able to help your child think beyond his or her own immediate desires and needs – not only can your child learn to achieve his own goals, but she can learn to consider how this process influences others and their feelings as well. You will be helping your child to identify and apply wisdom and thought, and to become a problem-solver and a peacemaker.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”- Jeremiah 29:11
© Copyright 2025 Truro Preschool & Kindergarten.
Don’t miss this exciting evening at TPK with live music, dancing, drinks, and appetizers. Bring your friends, grab a bite, and place your bids at the silent auction!
Adults only; cocktail attire.