At Horfield Welly Pre-school we recognise problem solving is an important life skill which enables children to make decisions, overcome challenges and resolve conflicts while supporting their independence and confidence. 

 

When children start their time at Horfield Welly preschool they may require adult support to solve any problems that they encounter in their free play activities (e.g. how to share toys, take turns, etc). Through supporting children with these tasks and not providing the answers adults can develop children’s questioning and problem solving skills. These skills will help children to feel empowered to tackle challenges on their own and thus develop their own strategies and techniques to solve any problems or difficulties they may encounter in life. 

 

The key step in encouraging problem-solving with children so young is to make sure they feel supported through the trial and error process. Failure should be normalised as a part of play so that they will be ready and confident to try again. Problem solving games and puzzles are great for teaching these qualities, as they are very visual and children can (literally) piece together the solution through memorisation strategies, and trial and error.

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