How We Teach Problem Solving & Critical Thinking in Preschool
In today’s world, where things are always changing and challenges come up often, kids need more than just ABCs and 123s. They need to learn how to think for themselves, ask questions, and find solutions. At our preschool in Sherman Oaks, we help kids grow these skills early, and we make it feel fun and natural.
Teaching problem-solving in preschool doesn’t mean giving kids hard tasks. It means helping them get curious, ask questions, and explore new things. Here's how we do it.
Why Problem Solving and Critical Thinking Important in Early Childhood
Kids are naturally curious. They want to know how things work, why something happened, and what could happen next. When we support this curiosity, great things happen:
They start to figure things out on their own.
They feel proud and confident.
They learn how to deal with small and big problems.
They become better at talking and listening to others.
Imagine a child building a tall tower with blocks. It keeps falling down. They try again and again, changing how they stack the blocks each time. That’s problem solving—and it’s wonderful to see.
Our Approach to Teaching Problem Solving
We believe learning should feel like play. That’s when kids learn the best. Here’s how we help them think while having fun.
Play-Based Learning
Kids solve problems all the time when they play. Whether they’re sharing toys or building something together, they’re learning important skills. Critical thinking game plays are very important.
We let kids take the lead and give them gentle support. We ask questions like:
"What do you want to try next?"
"How could we fix that?"
"Can you think of another way?"
These questions help kids think a little deeper.
Like, summer camp is so much fun, and kids learn a lot.
Open-Ended Questions
We don’t rush to give answers. Instead, we ask questions and let the kids figure it out.
"Why do you think that happened?"
"What do you think will happen if we do this?"
Even if their answer isn’t perfect, they’re learning how to think—and that’s what really matters.
Hands-On Activities
Kids understand things best when they can touch and try them. We give them fun chances to explore:
Solving puzzles or sorting games
Building cool things with Legos or blocks
Doing simple science activities, like seeing what floats or sinks
It’s learning—but it feels like play.
How We Encourage Critical Thinking
Critical thinking means looking at something closely, asking questions, and not giving up. Here’s how we help kids think this way.
Storytelling and Role-Play
Stories help kids think about what others feel and do. We use books, puppets, and pretend play to bring situations to life:
"What would you do if your friend felt sad?"
"How would you help someone who lost their toy?"
These moments teach kids to care and to think of helpful solutions.
Group Projects and Teamwork: Pretend Play
Working with others is a big part of life. When kids work on problem-solving projects in teams, they learn different skills:
Share their thoughts
Handle disagreements
Listen and speak kindly
Sometimes they build something big. Other times, they figure out a small problem. Either way, they’re learning together.
Time for Reflection
After an activity, we take a moment to look back. We ask:
"What part was hard?"
"What would you try differently next time?"
This helps kids think about what they did and how they solved the problem.
Real-Life Examples from Our Preschool
Here are some real moments where our kids solved problems on their own:
The Broken Tower: A group built a block tower, but it kept falling. Instead of quitting, they tried different shapes and made a stronger base. Their smiles said it all!
The Missing Crayons: A child noticed the crayons were gone. She asked around, then said, “Let’s make a sign!” They put it up—and found the crayons soon after.
The Puzzle Problem: One child got stuck on a puzzle. He watched a friend solve it, then tried again himself. He didn’t give up—and it worked!
Activities That Improve Problem Solving
Here are some fun and simple ways we help kids practice thinking:
Sorting games: Helps with noticing patterns and differences
Cooking projects: Kids follow steps and make guesses
Nature walks: Great for asking, “What’s that?” and “Why?”
Obstacle courses: Teacasking, panning, and trying again
Building challenges: Helps kids learn about balance and shape
The Role of Teachers and Parents
Teaching kids how to think and solve problems is something we all do together. Here’s how adults can help:
Think out loud: Say things like, “Hmm, maybe I should try it this way.”
Let them try: Don’t jump in right away—let kids figure it out first.
Celebrate effort: Say, “You really worked hard on that!” instead of just “Good job.”
Be patient: kids need time to think. Give them space to do that.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should you start teaching problem-solving?
Kids begin learning how to solve problems from the day they’re born. But between the ages 3 and 5, they’re ready for more guided learning. It’s the perfect time to start showing them how to think through things.
Can playing really build thinking skills?
Yes, 100%! Play is the best way for your kids to learn. When they play, they try things out, make mistakes, and learn from them.
How can parents help at home?
Let kids choose between two options.
Ask questions that don’t have just one right answer
Cheer them on when they keep trying
Play games that require thinking and creativity
Final Thoughts: Growing Thinkers for Life
Helping kids learn to think and solve problems isn’t about giving them tests or right answers. It’s about giving them space to explore and encouraging them to keep trying.
At our preschool in Sherman Oaks, we make sure kids feel safe to try, safe to make mistakes, and excited to keep learning. We’re not just teaching lessons—we’re growing curious, confident thinkers.
Want to see this in action? Visit our preschool and watch the little minds at work!