problem solving activities for 10 year olds

Critical Thinking: 11 Problem Solving Activities for Kids

As parents and teachers, it’s our responsibility to teach the children in our lives appropriate critical thinking and conflict resolution skills to help them develop and maintain relationships, excel in academics and extracurricular activities, and exercise proper self-regulation and anger management skills. If you’re looking for problem solving activities for kids, we’re sharing 11 of our favorites that can be used at home and in the classroom.

Why Is Problem Solving Important for Child Development?

As adults, we field all kinds of problems on a daily basis, many of which we resolve without much thought. We’re able to approach challenges rationally, come up with possible solutions, and weigh the pros and cons of each before we act. Of course, some problems are more complex than others, but for the most part, we’re able to work through each of them and try different strategies and techniques along the way until we come up with a solution that works. This is a natural process we’ve learned throughout the course of our lives, and in order for our children to learn appropriate problem solving skills as they grow, we need to teach them strategies and work with them as they apply these techniques to their lives.

When children aren’t equipped with appropriate problem solving skills, they tend to avoid situations and activities that feel challenging to them, which can have a huge impact on their ability to form and maintain relationships with their peers, excel in a school environment, and pursue interests and hobbies. The absence of critical thinking and conflict resolution skills can also lead to negative, and often impulsive behavior.

Teaching kids proper problem solving skills helps boost their self-esteem and self-confidence, helps them become more independent, and has a positive impact on their mental health.

6 Problem Solving Strategies for Kids

1) Take a deep breath

The first step in teaching problem solving skills to kids is to ensure they are calm. When our emotions are high, it’s much more challenging to see things rationally, making impulsive reactions more likely. Teach your child how to calm his or her body through mindful breathing so he or she has a go-to strategy to return to a state of calm when his or her emotions are high.

2) Verbalize the problem

Once your child is calm, ask him or her to verbalize the problem he or she is struggling with. Putting our thoughts into words can help us gain perspective and make it easier for us to search for solutions.

3) Brainstorm solutions

You can have your child do this verbally, or you can ask him or her to write them down, but the idea is to come up with as many solutions as possible, no matter how silly or far-fetched they may seem. A great idea is to set a timer (we LOVE our Time Timer as it visually shows the passage of time) and challenge your little one to strategize as many ideas as he or she can in that timeframe.

4) Evaluate each option

Work with your child to evaluate each idea he or she has come up with. Help him or her anticipate the pros and cons of each, and then identify which solution is the best.

5) Practice!

Encourage your child to put his or her solution to practice to see if it works!

When it comes to enforcing problem solving strategies for kids, this one is often overlooked but it’s so important! Once your child has tested out a solution to his or her problems, it’s essential that you take the time to help him or her assess whether or not it was successful. What went wrong? What went right? Should he or she try another strategy?

11 Problem Solving Activities for Kids

If you want to help build your child’s social, critical thinking, conflict resolution, and anger management skills, these fun and effective problem solving activities are for you! We’ve included family games, team building activities, task cards, and other creative challenges for small groups that can be used both at home and in the classroom.

1) Problems in a Jar Mosswood Connections is one of my favorite resources for kids activities, and I recently found this Problems in a Jar activity on their site. It’s designed to help kids learn how to define a problem, generate possible solutions, evaluate and select the best solution, and then implement the solution independently. It’s a great social skills activity to work through with your child at home.

2) HedBanz If you’ve never played HedBanz, you’re in for a REAL treat. Not only is this game fun, the question and answer premise behind this game will also challenge your child’s critical thinking and deductive reasoning skills. This is definitely high on my list of the best problem solving activities for kids!

3) The Tower of Self Esteem If you’re looking for team building activities for kids, this is a great ice breaker to consider. This game gets kids talking while also allowing them to see their own self-worth by identifying their own strengths. It’s also a great fine motor activity, and since it can be difficult and frustrating to stack the plastic cards into a tower, it’s one of my favorite problem solving activities for kids!

4) Team Scavenger Hunt This will require a bit of upfront work on your part, but it’s a great way to get kids to work collaboratively and it can be extremely fun and engaging! Divide kids into teams of 4 or 5 and provide them with a set of clues to see who can work together to find all of the items the fastest. What I love most about scavenger hunts is that you can create subject-specific scavenger hunts to compliment lesson plans, holidays, etc. Teachers Pay Teachers  has TONS of great ideas you can purchase for a small fee.

5) What Would You Do At School If… If you’re looking for problem solving activities for kids you can do at home – or in therapy – this is another good one to consider. With 56 cards to choose from, this activity gets kids thinking of different scenarios and helps them strategize how they can make good choices at school.

6) Quirkle Board Game If you’re looking for problem solving activities for kids you can enjoy as a family, I highly recommend Quirkle! It’s easy to play but definitely puts players’ problem solving skills to the test, and I love that it’s a game the whole family can enjoy!

7) Size of the Problem Activity Pack   Teachers Pay Teachers is one of my favorite resources for kids activities, and if you’re looking for problem solving activities for kids, this is a great option. The activities in this set help kids identify the size of their problems and the feelings they create, identify which reactions are/are not appropriate, and strategize possible solutions, making it a great way to engage in meaningful back-and-forth communication with your child while simultaneously teaching appropriate problem solving strategies.

8) Human Knot This is another one of my favorite problem solving activities for kids as it requires no setup and can be done absolutely anywhere. It also doubles as a great team building activity and it’s super fun! Have a group of kids stand in a circle and ask everyone to raise their right arm before reaching forward to grab hands with someone opposite from them. Next, ask everyone to raise their left arms and do the same thing. Be sure no one is holding hands with someone standing directly next to him or her. The object of this activity is for the group to find a way to detangle themselves without letting go of anyone’s hands.

9) Osmo Genius Kit While I like to find ways to get kids off their electronics, the Osmo system has really captured my heart. It teaches so many important concepts in a fun and creative way, and if you’re looking for independent problem solving activities for kids, the Tangram game is one of my absolute favorites!

10) Fingertip Hula Hoop If you’re looking for activities that help kids learn how to work collaboratively to solve problems, this is a fun one to try. Create groups of about 6-8 kids, have them stand together in a circle with their arms raised above their heads, and then place a hula hoop on their finger tips. Using nothing but their fingertips, each team must work together to lower the hula hoop to the ground without dropping it.

11) Kids’ Daily Dilemmas in a Jar I have heard nothing but positive things about these cards, but have been warned some of the topics are a bit mature. If you’re looking for problem solving activities for kids in middle school or high school, this is a great one to consider – just be careful to review the cards ahead of time so you can remove any you feel are inappropriate.

I hope this collection of problem solving activities for kids inspires you to find new and creative ways to develop your little one’s critical thinking and conflict resolution skills. Remember to keep your child calm, to verbalize and strategize together, to evaluate and reassess, and – more importantly – to keep things fun!

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17 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids

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As a child, I would spend hours putting together puzzles… whether it was 3-D puzzles or figuring out a crossword. I also loved it when teachers would give the class an open-ended question and we had to work in groups to figure out the answer in our own way.

Even something as simple as playing checkers with my brothers gave me the chance to use strategy as a way to win the game. I honestly believe that it’s so important for kids to solve problems at a young age, as it helps them think critically and outside the box.

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So, Why Is It Important To Teach Kids Problem Solving?

I think these kinds of activities are so important for kids to do because it helps them learn how to think analytically and solve problems on their own. It's a great way to get kids to use their imaginations and be creative.

Rote memorization simply does not have the same effect. This type of learning is great for learning facts like historical dates, but it’s not going to help kids figure out how events in history happened and the results.

We take these problem-solving skills into college, the workforce, and travel . My ability to problem solve since childhood has certainly got me through many sticky situations while in a new city or country.

Additionally, problem-solving helps children learn how to find creative solutions to challenges they may face both in and out of the classroom . These activities can also be fun and used in cohesion with school or playtime.

17 Fun Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

1. marble mazes.

This activity was selected because it requires them to think spatially. Spatial learning will benefit kids when they start driving, riding a bike, playing sports,etc.

To do this activity in its simplest form, you will need a piece of paper, a pencil, and some marbles. First, draw a maze on a piece of paper using a pencil.

Make sure to create a start and finish point. Then, place the marbles at the start of the maze. The goal is to get the marbles from the start to the finish by tilting the paper and using gravity to guide the marbles through the maze.

Another example of a marble maze can involve using toilet paper rolls taped together to create a three-dimensional maze. The larger the maze, the harder you can make it.

Check Price on Amazon!

If you are not into the DIY method, you can always buy a toy maze on Amazon. A good 48 piece puzzle is the Melissa & Doug Underwater Ocean Floor puzzle.

2. The Tower Challenge

Building a tower gives kids the chance to think about gravity, structure, and balance.

To do this activity, you will need some building materials like legos, blocks, or even toilet paper rolls. The challenge is to see how high they can stack the materials without the tower toppling over.

This can be done individually or in teams. An activity like this is good for younger kids and is the building block to learning about harder topics like engineering.

3. The Egg Drop Challenge

The egg drop challenge helps kids learn how to engineer a solution that prevents something from breaking. It requires them to think critically about which materials will best protect something fragile like an egg when dropped from a height.

To do this activity, you will need some eggs and various materials such as straws, cotton balls, bubble wrap, etc. The goal is to construct a device that will protect an egg from breaking upon impact.

This can be done individually or in teams . Teams can even have a competition for the best egg drop device.

As children begin handling, shopping for, and cooking their own food, activities like this will help them understand how to handle breakable items like bottles, eggs, delicate fruit,.etc. Ideally, this is best for age groups 8 and up.

4. The Penny Drop Challenge

This activity was selected because it requires kids to think about physics and how different materials affect sound.

To do this activity, you will need a penny ( or another coin), a cup, and various materials such as paper towels, cotton balls, etc.

The goal is to drop the penny into the cup without making any noise. Begin by placing different materials into the cup and then drop the penny into it. The children should also drop the penny from different heights into the same material to see if/how the impact from a higher drop affects sound.

Group kids into teams or let them try it on their own.

Kids should make note of what type of sounds are made when the penny hits different materials. This is a great activity for kids who are interested in science and physics.

5. The Balloon Race Challenge

This activity was selected because it helps kids learn about aerodynamics and Bernoulli’s principle . It also requires them to think creatively about how to design a balloon-powered vehicle.

To do this activity, you will need balloons, straws, masking tape, and markers. The goal is to design a balloon-powered vehicle that can travel a distance of at least 10 feet. Kids can begin this activity by sketching out their designs on paper.

After they have a basic design, they can begin building their vehicle from various materials. Then kids can explain why they think the balloon traveled or did not travel as far as it did.

6. The Marshmallow Challenge

Marshmallows are not only delicious, but they are also soft and malleable. So kids can have fun using it for some construction projects.

This activity was selected because it requires kids to think creatively about how to build a structure using limited materials. It also helps them learn about engineering and work as a team.

To do this activity, you will need marshmallows and spaghetti noodles. The goal is to build the tallest free-standing structure possible using only marshmallows and spaghetti noodles. If you don't have spaghetti noodles, use something similar like pretzel sticks.

You may even want to establish certain rules like each team can only use a certain number of marshmallows or noodles. A time limit can also make it more fun and challenging.

For more fun activities, check out our post on problem solving exercises for team building .

7. The Balloon Pop Challenge

If you remember your childhood, you probably remember popping balloons for fun at times. But this activity is different because it requires kids to use strategy and critical thinking.

This activity was selected because it helps kids learn about patterns and problem-solving. It is also a lot of fun for kids who like popping balloons. The goal is to create a device that will allow them to pop a balloon without using their hands.

To do this activity, you will need balloons and various materials such as straws, string, paper clips, etc.

8. Picture Pieces Puzzle Game

As mentioned earlier, puzzles are a great pastime – especially in childhood. Kids must think critically about how to put the pieces together to create a certain picture. It also helps them learn about shapes, colors, and other concepts.

You can take a medium to large picture and cut it into pieces. If you have younger kids, you may want to make the pieces larger. However, if you have kids closer to the 8-11 age range, you should be able to provide a challenge and make the pieces smaller.

9. Copy the Block Model

For this challenge, you can build a model out of blocks for the kids to copy. Put kids into groups and make sure each group has the same number of blocks you used for your model.

Make your model block as simple or complex as needed for your child's age group.

Set a time limit and make sure each group starts at the same time.

10. Team Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is great for kids because they have to search for items and use investigative skills. It is also a lot of fun and can be done both indoors and outdoors .

To do this activity, you will need to create a list of items for the kids to find. The items can be anything from common household items to things you would find outside.

These types of activities can also revolve around a theme like a holiday, movie, or book. For example, if the kids are fans of “Harry Potter” you can make a list of items to find that are related to the movie.

11. Obstacle Course

This activity requires kids to think creatively about how to get from one point to another while maneuvering around obstacles. If you have outdoor space, this can be done with common objects such as hula hoops, cones, etc.

If you don't have access to an outdoor space, you can use common household items to create an indoor obstacle course. For example, you can use chairs, blankets, pillows, etc.

Begin by setting up the course and then timing each child as they complete it. You can also have them race against each other to make it more fun.

Obstacle courses are also great because kids get to be physically active while they are thinking critically.

12. Reading Storybooks

There are many great benefits for kids that read storybooks.  One of the excellent benefits is the ability to problem-solve.  When they read the stories in the books, they see scenarios that cause them to be attached to the various characters they read about. 

So, when they encounter a real-life problem, it is often productive to ask a child how their favorite character would solve that problem.  Your kids can also be encouraged to come up with various options and possible outcomes for some of the situations they may encounter. 

This not only helps kids solve various problems but become more independent as well. 

13. Ask Them Open-Ended Questions

A good way to improve a child's ability to think critically and creatively and improve their ability to solve problems is by asking open-ended questions.  It also helps them to develop healthy personalities .

There are no right or wrong answers to these questions.  In addition, the solution requires more than a simple “yes” or “no” answer.  Furthermore, it allows kids to put some extra thought into their responses. 

Here are some examples of open-ended questions you may want to ask. 

• What did this experience teach you?
• Was this easy?  What was easy about it?
• What this difficult?  What is complicated about it?
• What may happen next in this situation?
• How did you come to this solution?
• What, if anything, would you do differently next time?
• What can we do to make things more fun next time?

14. Build Various Structures with Toys

Whether wooden blocks, LEGO blocks, or engineering blocks… giving your kid blocks to build whatever their minds can dream up is fun.  In addition, it requires them to think about how they will make a structure, put the pieces together, and creatively ensure the building's function and design. 

You may also want to challenge them to build something more complicated and watch them use their brain power to make it happen. 

15. Acting Out Skits

Impromptu activities like acting out skits help kids identify problems, develop solutions, and execute them.  This process works with multiple kids being divided into teams. 

First, you will want to write down different situations, such as resolving a disagreement between siblings or dealing with bullying on the playground on a piece of paper.  Second, you will fold the paper and place it in a hat or bowl.  

Third, each team will pick a scenario out of the hat.  Finally, you can give the kids a few minutes to discuss their solution and act out. 

16. Solving Moral Dilemmas   

In this simple game, you will help your kids solve simple dilemmas they may find themselves in.  You could write down a situation your child may find themselves in and help them learn the moral way to solve the problem.   

For instance, “The cashier gave them an additional $5 change back on my purchase.  What should they do?”  Another scenario could be, “I saw my friend cheating on a test.  Should I tell on them or let it go?”  A third one could be, “I caught my friends stealing some gum from the store.  What should I do?” 

After writing down the dilemmas and placing them in a bowl, get each child to select one and read it aloud.  Finally, you will help them devise morally correct solutions to the moral dilemma. 

17. Animal Pairing Game  

This is a fun and creative game to help your kids with focus, critical thinking, and team building skills .  In addition, this activity requires an even number of players to participate (4, 6, 8, etc.) 

Before starting the game, you will want to write the names of different animals twice, each on a separate slip of paper.  Then pass out the slips of paper to each individual or team member, instructing them not to share with anyone the name of the animal they received. 

Then the children will perform activities the animals might do without talking or making sounds.  Some of these activities might include:

• The way the animal cleans or grooms itself
• The way the animal sleeps
• The way the animal fights
• The way the animal eats or drinks
• The way the animal walks or runs

The goal is for each child to successfully pair up with the other child who has selected the same animal.

How Problem Solving in Childhood Helps in Adulthood

Children are not born with problem-solving skills. It is something that needs to be learned and developed over time .

From babies who learn how to communicate their needs to toddlers who figure out how to get what they want, to children who are starting to understand the consequences of their actions – problem-solving is a process that begins in childhood and continues into adulthood.

Some of the benefits of teaching problem-solving skills to children include:

• Improved critical thinking skills
• Better decision-making skills
• Enhanced creativity
• Improved communication and collaboration skills
• Increased confidence

There are many ways to teach problem-solving skills to children. The activities mentioned above are just a few examples. It is important to find activities that are appropriate for the age and abilities of the child.

With practice, children will develop these skills and be better prepared to face challenges in both childhood and adulthood.

Final Thoughts About Fun Problem Solving Activities For Kids

These are just a few ideas to get you started on teaching your child crucial problem solving skills. Perhaps they’ve inspired to come with some of your own, or seek out others? The important thing is to make sure the activity is age-appropriate and challenging enough to engage the kids.

Problem-solving skills are important for kids to learn because they can be applied to various situations in life. These skills also promote critical thinking, which is an important life skill.

There are many other problem-solving activities for kids out there. In time, you’ll find the ones that work best for your child.  And be sure not to forget about your own needs and self-improvement, both of which will make you a better parent and mentor. Here are some useful activities for adults to get your started.

Finally, if you want to level up your parenting skills, then check out this resource that will show you how to get your kids to listen WITHOUT yelling, nagging, or losing control .

44 Powerful Problem Solving Activities for Kids

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Inside: Tons of activities that will help boost kids’ problem-solving skills and make them super critical thinkers!

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Who doesn’t love a little challenge now and then? Especially if it’s for our kiddos! 

You see, problem-solving isn’t just for the puzzles and math sheets. It’s the magic stuff that shapes our little ones into big thinkers and doers. 

Yep, it’s pretty important!

With the right activities, we aren’t just sharpening kids’ brain muscles; we’re also enhancing their creativity, boosting their confidence and critical thinking skills, and (just maybe) buying ourselves five minutes to sip that coffee while it’s still hot. 

Stick around, and let’s dive into 44 simple activities to boost your child’s problem-solving skills while having a blast! 🚀💡

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Because we all want our kids to be happy and healthy — not just for right now, but for the rest of their lives.

Why is it Important to Learn Problem-Solving Strategies?

Importance of problem-solving abilities:

Navigating the maze of life requires many skills; it requires the ability to face challenges, find solutions, and adapt. 

This is where problem-solving enters the picture, and here’s why it’s so crucial for our kiddos:

Life is Full of Puzzles:  From tying shoes to understanding a new math concept, life constantly presents us with puzzles. Equipping our children with problem-solving skills ensures they can tackle each one confidently.

Boosts Independence:  As parents or educators, we won’t always be there to hand-hold. When kids can solve problems on their own, they gain a sense of independence, which is essential for their personal growth.

Develops Resilience:  Not every attempt to solve a problem will be successful. But with each try, children learn resilience, understanding that it’s okay to fail and important to try again.

Prepares for Real-World Challenges:  The real world isn’t a scripted playground. It’s unpredictable. By honing their problem-solving abilities, we’re preparing kids to face the unforeseen challenges of the world outside.

Enhances Cognitive Growth:  Otherwise known as cognitive development. Problem-solving isn’t just about finding solutions. It’s about thinking critically, analyzing situations, and making decisions. This cognitive workout helps in the overall brain development of our children.

Fosters Creativity:  There’s often more than one way to solve a problem. Encouraging kids to think outside the box helps them see things from different perspectives and nurtures their creative spirit, letting them see possibilities where others might see roadblocks.

Encourages Adaptability:  In the face of challenges, it’s important not just to find solutions but to be adaptable. As the world changes, kids with strong problem-solving skills can change with it, learning and growing along the way.

Builds Confidence :  Every problem solved is a victory, a testament to their capabilities. This builds a child’s self-esteem, making them believe in their ability to face and overcome obstacles.

So, while it may seem like just another skill on the list, problem-solving is a cornerstone for a well-rounded, resilient, and successful individual.

4 Simple Problem-Solving Steps We Should Know at a Young Age

Problem-solving steps can be thought of as the building blocks for tackling challenges. 

They’re like a set of instructions that  guide us  on our journey to finding different solutions. These steps provide a  roadmap  for kids, helping them break down big problems into smaller, more manageable pieces. 

By following these steps, children can learn  how  to think critically, make smart decisions, and even discover their own creative problem-solving superpowers. 

• First, we need to understand the problem, just like examining the pieces before we start building. 
• Next, we brainstorm – this is where we think of different solutions, like trying out various block combinations. Then comes the important part – evaluating the options. We must determine the best solution ,  just like choosing the right blocks for our structure. 
• After that, it’s time to put the plan into action, just like assembling the blocks to create something amazing. 
• Finally, we review and see if our solution works, making adjustments if needed. 

These problem-solving steps are like our trusty toolkit, helping us build our way to success with creativity and ingenuity.

Whether it’s figuring out a math puzzle, resolving a conflict with a friend, or coming up with a new game, these problem-solving steps will be a guide to helping kids take their next steps.

Featured resource

HeartSmart Social Emotional Curriculum

If you want a program that guides you on how to teach problem-solving along with other essential skills like self-regulation, respect, teamwork, conflict resolution, and more, check this out!

Best Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

In this guide, we have a cool mix of fun problem-solving activities. There are activities for inside, outside, playing in groups, and even on the computer! So take deep breaths, and let’s get to it!

44 Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Problem-solving games for kids:, card games:.

These are more than just fun; they are brain boosters. In  Go Fish , the hunt for matching cards sharpens memory. While in the classic game  Uno , it’s all about plotting the right move to take the lead.

The Memory Game:

This game isn’t just about remembering; it’s about strategizing. Matching pairs means we’re not just recalling but also paying close attention. This boosts concentration, focus, and, of course, memory – essential skills for everyday challenges!

Try this animal matching memory game.

Classic  Board Games:

Whether it’s Chess , where every move counts, or  Monopoly ,  where every decision can make or break your game, these games teach foresight and strategy.

Maze Games :

Navigating a maze isn’t just about reaching the end; it’s about strategizing the route. These games enhance our ability to plan and foresee, invaluable skills in real-life situations.

Brain-Teasing Sudoku :

Sudoku   isn’t merely filling in numbers; it’s about using logic to deduce the correct sequence.

Tangram Puzzles: 

These aren’t your average puzzles. With Tangram, you shape a story, crafting images using geometric pieces.

Chess & Strategy-Based Games:

Think of these as mental workouts. Here, every step is a calculated decision, honing your ability to think multiple steps ahead.

For more fun:

• 20 Best Games for 4-Year-Olds
• 15 Board Games Every 9-Year-Old Will Love

Indoor Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Complete simple tasks:.

Simple tasks are little jobs that you can do to practice problem-solving. 

• Matching Socks:  Sort through a pile of laundry to pair up matching socks.
• Grocery List Planning:  Help create a list for the week’s meals, considering everyone’s preferences.
• Toy Organization:  Sort toys into designated bins by type, size, or color.
• Packing Their School Bag:  Ensure they have all the necessary items for the next school day.
• Setting the Table:  Consider where each plate, fork, and glass should go.

Ask Open-Ended Questions:

Open-ended questions are special questions that don’t have just one answer. They make you think! For instance, instead of asking, “What color is the sky?” you might ask, “Why do you think the sky changes colors?”

Puzzle Games:

Try simple puzzles with fewer pieces for younger kids and more complex puzzles with more pieces for older kids! You figure out how to fit the pieces together, which helps your brain get stronger!

Puzzle games are also great for hand-eye coordination!

Pattern Recognition:

This is all about finding the special patterns in things. Imagine a puzzle with colors or shapes. You have to figure out the pattern to solve it.

Dress-Up and Role-Play:

When you dress up and pretend to be someone else, it’s like stepping into their shoes. You have to think about how they would act and problem-solve what they would say if you were them.

Shape Sorters:

Shape sorters  are super fun for young kids. You have to match each shape to the right hole. It’s like a puzzle for shapes! This helps you learn about different shapes and how they fit together.

Building Challenges:

Use Wooden blocks or legos and give kids a theme or structure to replicate. Great for all age groups!

Cooking or Baking:

Cooking and baking are like yummy science experiments! You follow recipes, mix ingredients, and even get to taste your creations. You must figure out how to follow and “solve” the recipe so that your creation tastes delicious!

“What If?” Scenarios:

Present hypothetical situations (e.g., “What if you were invisible for a day?”) and discuss possible solutions or actions.

Homemade Science Experiments:

Homemade science experiments are like being a scientist in your own lab! You get to try out cool experiments and discover how things work. 

Quick Experiment example:

Make Dancing Raisins:

• Clear soda (like Sprite or 7-Up)
• A clear glass
• Fill the glass with the soda.
• Drop a few raisins into the glass.

Result:  The raisins will initially sink, then start “dancing” up and down due to the carbon dioxide bubbles attaching and detaching from them.

Coding Activities: 

Coding is like giving a computer a set of clues to follow. Think of it as telling a story where the computer plays the main character, and your instructions guide its every move. It’s our way of communicating with machines to make them do amazing tasks!

Crossword Puzzles:

Crossword puzzles are fun little word challenges. You must fill in the blanks with the right words and use your smarts to solve tricky clues!

Complex Problems like Brain Teasers:

Brain teasers are like mental gymnastics, making you stretch and flex your thinking muscles. What’s fun about them? There’s often more than one way to reach an answer, so your imagination and logic both get a workout!

Goal Setting Activities:

Goal setting  is like making a special plan for what you want to achieve. 

Think of goal setting as charting out your very own treasure map, with no wrong answers! 

By laying out what you aim to achieve, you’re setting the course toward your treasure: success!

Goals, be they immediate or down the road, act like our personal compasses. They keep you on track and motivated. And every time you hit a goal? That’s you cracking a code and unlocking a new achievement in your adventure!

Setting SMART Goals

This engaging kit focuses on teaching essential skills for setting and  achieving smart goals,  just like breaking down that LEGO set into manageable sections. We help kids understand the importance of clear objectives, staying motivated, overcoming obstacles, embracing adaptability and more.

Math Challenges:

Think of math challenges as your brain’s personal gym session. These aren’t just any puzzles; they’re crafted to push those thinking caps to the limit. 

Debates (Best for older children):

Debates are friendly arguments where you defend your ideas with strong reasons. They’re excellent for problem-solving and for our social skills because they teach us how to think critically and consider different viewpoints. By defending our thoughts in a debate, we learn how to express ourselves clearly, listen to others, and find strong arguments to support our ideas!

Use Worksheets (Teach the Size of the Problem Concepts)

Teach concepts like the size of the problem to help kids determine if their reactions to problems are appropriate and what suitable solutions might be. Use fun visuals and problem-solving worksheets.

You can get this worksheet and more in our HeartSmart curriculum.

STEM Challenges: 

STEM challenges are games that use science, technology, engineering, and math to solve problems. They’re awesome for problem-solving because they let us be like inventors and builders. Kids can engage in creative play and design and create things, like bridges or machines, using our smarts and creativity. 

Outdoor Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Nature scavenger hunt or treasure hunt: .

Create a list of natural items for kids to find. For added difficulty, give riddles as clues.

We have some awesome free Scavenger Hunt Bundles you can snag!

Free Scavenger Hunt Bundle

Download this set now, which includes four unique scavenger hunt games

Outdoor Obstacle Course: 

Use items like ropes, cones, and hula hoops to design a course that requires navigation.

Garden Planning & Planting :

Design a garden patch, deciding what to plant based on sunlight and spacing needs.

Map & Compass Orienteering:

Teach kids to use a map and compass, then set waypoints for them to find.

Water Relay Challenges:

Carry water from one bucket to another using a sponge or cup, navigating hurdles.

Campsite Setup Simulation Challenge:

Set up a mock campsite considering factors like wind direction, incline, and resource proximity.

Nature Art & Patterns:

Using twigs, leaves, stones, and more, create mosaic patterns or depictions.

Group Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Tower of spaghetti:.

Using only spaghetti and marshmallows, groups compete to build the tallest stable tower.

Egg Drop Challenge:

Groups are provided with a set of materials (e.g., straws, tape, cotton) to create a protective casing for an egg, which is then dropped from a height.

Silent Line-Up:

Without speaking, kids must line up according to their birthdays or another criterion.

Group Story Time:

One child starts a story with a sentence or two, and each subsequent child adds on, weaving in unexpected twists and turns.

The Human Knot:

Kids stand in a circle, reach across, and grasp two different hands. The challenge is to untangle the knot without releasing hands.

Escape Room:

Everyone is ‘locked’ in a themed room and has to solve a series of clues and puzzles to ‘escape’ within a set time. It’s fantastic for problem-solving because it challenges critical thinking, teamwork, and creativity. Everyone must work together, think outside the box, and use their wits to solve the puzzles and complete the mission before time runs out!

Role-Playing Social Situations:

Role-playing helps you practice how to react and solve problems in different situations. Present the group with a fictional but realistic scenario (e.g., stranded on an island) and brainstorm and act out solutions.

By pretending to be in different roles, you can figure out the best ways to communicate, understand others, and find solutions to problems in a safe and fun way!

Blindfolded Obstacle Course:

In pairs, one blindfolded child is guided through an obstacle course by their partner using only verbal instructions.

Online and App-Based Problem Solving Activities

When tech meets intellect, the digital realm becomes a treasure trove of problem-solving wonder!

Educational Apps:

Best Apps by Age:

• Younger Kids : Dive into the mathematical world with “Moose Math” or kick-start programming concepts playfully with “Bee-Bot.”
• Older Kids: Amp up programming skills with “Cargo-Bot” or embark on a critical thinking journey with “Rush: A Disney Pixar Adventure.”

Online Escape Rooms:

Just like physical escape rooms, but from the comfort of your home! They’re digital adventures, demanding clues to be solved to advance to the next level.

Check out these 10 Family Friendly Online Escape rooms here! I’m especially looking forward to Hogwarts Harry Potter Escape Room .

Virtual Logic Puzzles:

Websites that present logic problems and puzzles, leveling up in complexity as kids solve them.

Top Picks:  “Conceptis Puzzles,” “Math Playground Logic Games.”

Benefits: Perfect for sharpening deductive reasoning and pattern recognition.

Interactive E-Books:

These are not your everyday e-books. They demand interaction, choices, and decision-making to progress the story.

Suggestions:  “This Book is Perfect” or I love this big list of the best interactive books for kids.

Benefits: Enhance comprehension, decision-making, and experience of how choices shape outcomes.

Online Strategy Games:

These games demand planning, strategic thinking, and foresight.

Check out: “Fish Sticks Strategy Game”

Benefits: Apart from being immensely fun, they teach patience, strategy formulation, and long-term planning.

10 Examples of Problem-Solving Skills Young Children Should Have

Each of these skills not only helps kids tackle problems effectively but also equips them with abilities they’ll use throughout their lives.

• Critical Thinking:  Encourage young thinkers to examine situations, ask questions, and view things from different angles before reaching a conclusion.
• Decision-Making Skills:  Help children practice making choices by offering them options and discussing the potential outcomes of each decision.
• Creative Thinking:  Cultivate creativity by providing opportunities for imaginative play, artistic expression, and activities that encourage thinking outside the box.
• Communication Skills:  Show children how to express their thoughts,  feelings , and ideas clearly and effectively – a vital skill for problem-solving in social situations.
• Teamwork and Collaboration:  Foster the spirit of cooperation by encouraging children to work together on group activities or projects, which helps develop problem-solving skills as a team.
• Resourcefulness:  Challenge children to find alternative solutions using the available resources rather than relying solely on adult guidance.
• Flexibility and Adaptability:  Teach children how to adapt to changes and unexpected situations, which is crucial for effective problem-solving in real-world scenarios.
• Persistence:  Staying determined, even when faced with challenges, and continuing to try until a solution is found.
• Self-reflection:  Recognizing one’s own mistakes or misunderstandings in a situation and learning from them for future problem-solving.
• Active Listening:  Paying close attention to details when others speak, helping them understand problems more fully and respond effectively. 

Must read post:

How to Help Kids with Inflexible Thinking THRIVE

Tips for Parents and Educators: Nurturing Problem-Solving in Kids

When it comes to fostering problem-solving skills in children, both parents and educators play pivotal roles. It’s less about giving the right answers and more about asking the right questions. 

Encourage Curiosity.  Let kids explore questions like, “What do you think would happen if…?” or “How would you do it differently next time?”.

Embracing mistakes as learning opportunities can be a game-changer.

Set Up Scenarios.  Create environments or situations where kids can think and act independently. Whether it’s setting up a puzzle station at home or a role-play corner in the classroom, these controlled scenarios can stimulate their problem-solving faculties. Remember, it’s okay for them to struggle a bit. It’s through overcoming challenges that real learning occurs.

Lastly,  Be a Guide, Not a Director.  Instead of directing them step-by-step, guide them by providing hints or asking probing questions. This helps them develop the ability to analyze situations and think critically. As they grow, they’ll be more equipped to approach challenges with confidence and creativity. 

So, whether you’re a parent or an educator, remember that each day presents countless opportunities to bolster these invaluable skills. Embrace them!

Final Thoughts: Problem Solving Activities for Kids

Being a pro at problem-solving helps us face all types of curveballs life throws at us.

From untangling math puzzles to making big decisions, this skill is our trusty sidekick. And when life changes? No sweat! We can adapt and shine.

In short, mastering problem-solving helps us face challenges, make wise choices, and truly succeed in whatever we tackle!

I hope you enjoyed these problem-solving activities for kids. Tell me, what one is your favorite?

Because we all want our kids to be happy and healthy — not just for right now, but for the rest of their lives.

Tina Williamson is the published author of the growth mindset activity journal for kids - “ Amazing Me ” and the writer and founder here at Mindfulmazing. Passionate about raising mindful, resilient, and compassionate kids we are committed to sharing calming strategies, positive parenting tips, and growth mindset resources. Our resources are now used in over 10,000 homes, schools and counseling offices! Visit the shop here.  

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25 Fun Problem Solving Activities for Kids

Problem-solving activities for kids : Explore 24 fun problem-solving games and activities, and learn effective tips and strategies to teach kids problem-solving skills. If you want to explore problem-solving strategies more in-depth, you can also grab our workbook “ Problem-Solving for Kids ” (printable resource).

Problem-solving is the cognitive process of finding solutions to challenges or complex situations.

A systematic approach to problem-solving tends to include defining the problem, gathering information and data, generating potential solutions, evaluating the pros and cons of each solution, making a decision, and implementing the chosen solution.

Effective problem-solving often requires critical thinking, a good dose of creativity, and the ability to consider multiple perspectives. It may also involve identifying patterns, breaking down a problem into manageable chunks, and applying our logic to develop solutions.

Problem-solving is present in everyday situations and across all fields: business, science, personal life, and education. There is not one single aspect in our lives where we don’t need to apply our problem-solving skills.

Table of Contents

• Problem-solving steps
• Development of problem-solving in childhood
• Benefits of developing problem-solving skills
• 10 Tips to teach kids problem-solving skills
• 10 Examples of problem-solving strategies
• 25 Problem-solving activities and games for kids

Problem-Solving Steps

Some key components of problem-solving include:

• Identifying the problem Recognizing and defining the issue or challenge that needs to be addressed.
• Analyzing the problem Investigating and understanding the underlying causes, factors, and relationships related to the problem.
• Generating solutions Generating potential solutions or strategies to address the problem.
• Evaluating all possible solutions (Pros and Cons Analysis) Assessing the feasibility, effectiveness, and potential consequences of each solution. Considering the positive and negative aspects of each solution.
• Decision-making Selecting the best solution based on our analysis and judgment.
• Implementing the best solution Actioning our chosen solution
• Monitoring progress and results
• Reflecting on the outcomes Reviewing and evaluating the outcomes of the implemented solution, learning from the experience, and making adjustments if necessary.

Development of Problem-Solving Skills in Childhood

Children begin to develop problem-solving skills from a very early age, and these skills continue to develop and refine throughout childhood and adolescence.

Babies soon learn about action and reaction. And, as early as eight months, they begin to acquire an understanding of cause and effect (they shake a rattle, it makes a sound; they push a toy, it falls)

Between 13 and 24 months, they start solving simple problems through trial and error and engage in symbolic play using their imagination.

As children progress into middle childhood (ages 7-11), they develop more advanced problem-solving skills. They become capable of understanding multiple perspectives and can consider multiple factors when solving problems. They start using logic and reasoning to solve increasingly complex problems.

During adolescence (ages 12 and up), problem-solving skills continue to develop. Teenagers can generate and test hypotheses and use deductive and inductive reasoning to arrive at solutions.

Each child will develop their problem-solving skills at their own pace. Some children may show advanced problem-solving abilities at an earlier age. Others may require more time and experience to develop these skills fully.

Benefits of Developing Problem-Solving Skills in Children

Problem-solving skills in children are crucial for children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. It equips them to approach challenges, think critically, make informed decisions, and find creative solutions. 

The benefits of good problem-solving skills in children include:

• Positive impact on self-esteem and confidence Identifying, analyzing, and solving their problems contributes to our kids’ sense of competence .
• Fosters Independence and Autonomy When our kids are able to problem-solve on their own, they take one more step toward independence
• Academic Success Problem-solving skills contribute to academic achievement, as they help students analyze and solve complex problems across various subjects.
• Cognitive Development Problem-solving fosters cognitive skills such as logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and abstract reasoning.
• Critical Thinking Problem-solving enhances critical thinking abilities, enabling children to evaluate information, identify biases, and make informed judgments.
• Creativity Problem-solving promotes creativity by encouraging children to think outside the box, generate innovative ideas, and explore multiple solutions.
• Emotional Resilience Problem-solving skills enhance emotional resilience by enabling children to manage and cope with challenges effectively, reducing stress and promoting well-being.
• Improved Social Interactions/Relationships Problem-solving abilities contribute to better social interactions, conflict resolution , and peer collaboration, promoting healthy relationships.
• Future career success Problem-solving skills are highly valued in the workplace and can positively influence future career success.

10+ Helpful Tips to Teach Kids Problem-Solving Skills

Teaching problem-solving skills to kids is an important part of their cognitive development. It helps them develop critical thinking, creativity, and resilience.

But how can we help our kids and students to develop this essential skill?

We can help our kids and students develop and improve their problem-solving skills in many ways.  These are some helpful tips that you could consider:

• Model problem-solving behavior When you see yourself in a problem-solving situation, verbalize your thought process: “I wonder how I should address this issue. I guess my alternatives could be… They all have positives and negatives….”
• Let them participate in the problem-solving situation “Could you help me solve this puzzle?”
• Provide real-life problem-solving situations Real-life scenarios make problem-solving more meaningful for kids. For example, discuss how to resolve a conflict with a sibling or how to make the morning routine smoother.
• Teach them how to break down problems Show them how to break down complex problems into manageable sub-problems.
• Practice brainstorming Create brainstorming situations where all the family (or the classroom) can contribute to solving a problem
• Teach the value of perseverance Sometimes, we must stick to a situation and persevere before finding a solution. Encourage kids to persevere through challenges and setbacks, emphasizing that mistakes and failures are opportunities for learning.
• Encourage critical thinking Encourage kids to analyze situations, consider different perspectives, and evaluate possible outcomes.
• How could we make your school lunch healthier but still yummy?
• How could we reuse/recycle all this paper?
• What could we do to help you remember all the steps in your night routine?
• Encourage reflection When they can find a solution for a problem, don’t jump to solve it for them. Encourage them to reflect on the problem and find and evaluate alternatives. And after a problem is solved, think about the whole process and the learnings. “How did this work?” “What did you learn” “Do you need to change anything?”
• Foster creativity Provide them with opportunities for imaginative play, creative projects, and brainstorming sessions.
• Teach the value of teamwork Teach kids the importance of working together to solve problems. Engage them in group activities or projects that require teamwork and collaboration. This helps kids learn the value of different perspectives and work together towards an objective while they practice their communication skills.
• Teach decision-making skills Teach kids how to approach problems systematically by going through the steps we have mentioned in our first section.
• Encourage both structured and free play. Structured play can help you create good problem-solving situations, while free play will foster creativity.

Developing problem-solving skills is an ongoing process that will also continue in adulthood. Provide your kids with guidance and support, and celebrate their efforts and achievements along the way.

10 Examples of Problem-Solving Strategies

There are different strategies that can help us solve a wide range of problems. Here are some commonly recognized problem-solving strategies:

1 . Trial and Error : This is the first problem strategy that we ever learn. We start using trial and error strategies in infancy, and it continues serving its purpose in many situations. This strategy involves trying different solutions or approaches and learning from the errors or failures until a successful solution is found.

2. Algorithm: An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure or a set of rules that guarantees a solution to a specific problem. It is a systematic approach to problem-solving that follows a predetermined set of instructions.

3. Heuristics: Heuristics are mental shortcuts or rules of thumb that help simplify problem-solving by providing quick and efficient strategies. While heuristics can be effective in many situations, they may also lead to biases and errors.

4. Divide and Conquer: This strategy involves breaking down a complex problem into smaller, more manageable chunks or steps that make the overall problem easier to tackle.

5. Working Backwards: This strategy involves starting from the desired outcome and working backward to determine the steps or actions needed to reach that outcome. We often use this problem-solving strategy when we set goals.

6. Analogical Reasoning: Analogical reasoning involves drawing parallels between the current problem and a similar problem that has been solved in the past. By applying the solution from the previous problem to the current one, individuals can find a solution more efficiently.

7. Brainstorming: Brainstorming gets lots of brains working on the same problem. It is a great collaborative problem-solving strategy that can bring different perspectives and experiences to the table and may result in lots of creative ideas and solutions. 

8. Decision Matrix: A decision matrix is a systematic approach to evaluating and comparing different options or solutions. It involves creating a matrix that lists alternatives and the criteria for evaluation. It assigns weights or scores to each criterion to come up with the optimal alternative.

9. Root Cause Analysis: Sometimes, we need to understand what is causing a problem before we can attempt to solve it, as different causes may require different approaches (for example, when you are sick, your doctor may need to understand what is causing the problem before prescribing a medicine)

10. Simulation and Modeling: Simulation involves creating a simplified representation or model of a problem situation to gain insights and test different scenarios.

Our choice of strategy will depend on the problem, available resources, and our own personal preferences and circumstances. We may also need to combine strategies or apply different ones to different aspects of a complex problem.

(Disclosure: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. You can also read our Disclosure & Disclaimer policy  here )

Best Problem-Solving Activities for Kids

Play-based activities are centered around play and are designed to engage children in active learning and exploration. And fun problem-solving activities are a great way to develop children’s critical thinking, creativity, and decision-making skills.

In this section, we will review some problem-solving games and activities that will engage your kids’ critical-thinking skills and creativity.

1. Puzzle Games Puzzles are a fun activity for children of all ages. Young children will enjoy simple puzzles, while older children (and adults!) can have fun with more complex ones. Encourage them to use logical thinking and problem-solving strategies to complete the puzzles.

2. Crosswords A crossword is another fun type of puzzle and a good source of mental stimulation.

3. Sudoku Sudoku is a popular logic-based puzzle that involves filling a grid with numbers.

It can be extremely easy or very challenging, adaptable even for young learners.

Let’s go now for a couple of building challenges!

4. Build the Tallest Tower Give the child a set of materials (Legos, building blocks, wooden blocks, or other construction materials) and ask them to build the tallest tower they can. This simple game will encourage them to problem-solve as they build and figure out how to make the tower stable.

5. Build Towers with Different Materials Ask your child to build three different towers with different materials. Then assess how stable they are and how much weight they can hold. Analyze the pros and cons of using each type of material.

6. Treasure Hunt Set up a treasure hunt with clues leading to hidden objects or rewards. Children will have to follow the clues and solve puzzles to find the ultimate prize. This activity encourages problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork.

7. Scavenger Hunt Playing Scavenger Hunt can be a fun way for our kids to put their creative problem-solving skills to good use. Provide them with clues and puzzles that they must solve in order to find the next clue.

8. Mystery Bag Fill a bag with random objects and ask children to come up with creative uses for each item. Encourage them to think outside the box and find innovative solutions.

9. Memory Game While memory games primarily focus on memory retention and recall, they can indirectly contribute to problem-solving skills by developing cognitive abilities such as attention, information processing, and adjusting their strategies.

10. Role-Playing Scenarios Create role-playing scenarios where children have to solve a problem or make decisions. For example, pretend to be stranded on a desert island and ask them to decide what items they will take and how they will survive.

11. Role-Play Social Situations Work in developing social skills with social problem-solving situations.

12. Brainstorming Sessions Choose a topic or problem and hold brainstorming sessions where children can generate as many ideas as possible. Encourage them not to limit themselves (even if alternatives feel unfeasible!)

13. Team Building Activities and Games Engage children in team-building games like building a balloon tower. Each team member will need to collaborate, communicate, and problem-solve together to complete the project.

14. Escape Rooms An escape room is a super fun team problem-solving activity.

In an escape room, participants are locked inside a themed room and must work together to solve puzzles, find clues, and accomplish tasks within a given time limit in order to “escape” from the room.

15. Science Experiments Conduct simple science experiments that involve problem-solving. For example, in the classic “sink or float” experiment, children predict and test which objects will sink or float in water.

Problem-Solving Board Games

There are many board games that will test our kids problems solving activities. These are just a few examples:

16. Cluedo Players must solve a murder mystery by deducing the murderer, the weapon used, and the location of the crime. Players collect and examine clues to eliminate possibilities and make logical deductions.

17. Codenames Another classic game where players are split into two teams and must guess words based on clues from their teammates.

There are many codenames games available, including themes like Disney or Harry Potter.

18. Mastermind Game In this strategy game players take turns setting and solving secret codes

19. Scrabble Scrabble is a classic word game where players form words on a game board using letter tiles.

Kids must use their problem-solving skills to analyze the available letters, consider the best word combination and strategically place those words to score the highest points.

Learning Problem-Solving with Card Games

Card games provide opportunities for kids to develop problem-solving skills such as strategy, memory, pattern recognition, decision-making, and observation.

Just a couple of examples:

20. Uno Uno is a classic card game where kids match cards based on color or number. They need to assess their cards, strategize and make decisions about which cards to play to get rid of their cards while also considering the cards in their opponents’ hands.

21. Go Fish Go Fish is a classic card game where players try to collect sets of cards by asking other players if they have specific cards. Players need to remember which cards they have and make decisions about who to ask and what sets to pursue.

22. Coding Challenges Introduce children to coding activities using platforms like Scratch (or ScratchJr for younger kids), Code.org, or Tynker. Coding involves problem-solving and logical thinking, and children can create interactive stories, games, or animations.

23. Outdoor Problem Solving Take children outside and present them with challenges that require problem-solving, such as building a shelter using natural materials or finding their way through an obstacle course.

24. Problem-Solving Worksheets Help your child follow a systematic approach to problem-solving with these helpful worksheets

25. Goal-Setting Activities for Kids Learning to set goals and make plans to achieve them is also a problem-solving activity. I have several resources to teach kids about goal-setting that I will list below:

• Goal-Setting Activities for Kids
• SMART Goals for Kids
• Goal Tracker Thermometer

Remember to provide guidance and support during these activities while encouraging children to think independently and come up with their own solutions.

Problem-Solving Worksheets

Looking for kid-friendly examples of problem-solving strategies ?

This workbook explores the following  problem-solving strategies  (with child-friendly examples and activities):

• Trial and Error
• Heuristics (Clever shortcuts)
• Divide and Conquer
• Working Backwards
• Brainstorming
• Decision Matrix
• Root Cause Analysis
• Systematic problem-solving

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Home » Games » 17 Fun Problem Solving Activities & Games [for Kids, Adults and Teens]

17 Fun Problem Solving Activities & Games [for Kids, Adults and Teens]

Everyone should learn problem solving, as it is important in both our personal and professional lives. Problems occur all around us and many people react with spontaneous emotion. Instead, effective use of problem solving skills can lead to rational thinking, a component of any successful endeavor.

Creative problem involves using one or more of the basic steps of problem solving in exercises designed to challenge the thinking. Problem solving activities work for every age group. In this article, we will present problem-solving activities for adults and kids. We will also provide you with group and team building problem solving ideas.

Table of Contents

There are four basic steps in problem solving:

• define the problem
• generate possible solutions
• evaluate and select possible solutions
• implement solutions

Problem solving activities use one of more of these steps.

Group Problem Solving Activities

Group activities provide an effective way to learn problem-solving skills. The following list of activities present problem solving skills in the form of games, a non-threatening and fun way.

Divide your group into teams of equal numbers. Give each team a ball of yarn. Instruct the teams to create a web using only the yarn. Once the teams have finished (you may have to set an amount of time for completion), switch the teams around so that every team has a web other than their own. Each team then blindfolds one team member. The goal is for the blindfolded individual to unwind the web following the verbal instruction of their teammates. In order to be successful, team members must concentrate, and give/follow directions. The first team that has dismantled the web wins this game.

To Do Scavenger Hunt

This scavenger hunt game involves solving a list of problem activities. Begin by dividing your group into teams. Give each group a list of to do activities. The list should begin with some simple tasks, with increasingly more difficult activities. Some suggested activities are:

• Write a one hundred word poem on a given theme.
• Find an object readily available in the area in which you are playing
• Drink a whole can or glass of a liquid
• Solve a Sudoku or cross word puzzle
• Write out all the lyrics of a song (a Christmas carol works well at holiday time)

The team that completes all the activities first, wins.

Impromptu Skits

Prior to playing this game, write down a few appropriate situations that deal events in the venue in which you are playing. For example, for a group involved in customer service, use dealing with an angry customer on the phone. If you have a large group, divide them into teams of six to eight members. Have each group choose a folded piece of paper on which you have written the subject of a skit they must create.  Give a set amount of time to prepare the skit and then have each team present their skit to the group. If you have a small group, have each person create one side of a conversation dealing with the problem for presentation to everyone.

Block Duplicating

Build a model out of building blocks. Provide each group member (or divide into teams for a large group ) enough blocks to duplicate the model. Set a specific amount of time for completing the duplicated model. The team that is the first to finish – or gets the furthest on completing their model – wins. The more difficult the original model, the longer this task will take.

Team Building Problem Solving Activities

When choosing team building problem solving activities, make sure the game you use suits the group of people – their ages and interests. The activities we have listed will help with not only problem solving, but also build decision making, collaboration, and listening skills.

Tower Building

Although there are many variations to this game, this one using spaghetti and marsh mellows is our favorite. Divide you group into teams with an equal number of players. Provide each team with an equal amount of spaghetti and marsh mellows. The goal is to see which team can build the highest tower within a set amount of time.

Personalized Crossword

For this game to be effective, you need one or more teams of 8 to 10 people. Have each team list the first and last names of their group members. The goal is to create a crossword puzzle with clues composed of hints about the person, for example, if only one team member has red hair, the two clues for her first and last name could be, “Red hair,” and “Ginger.” It should take each team 20 to 30 minutes to complete their puzzle. When all the teams are finished, trade puzzles so that every team has a different one. Make sure you provide a list of names for the puzzle solvers.

Picture Pieces Puzzle Game

Prepare for this problem solving activity by choosing a well-known picture or cartoon full of detail. Cut the picture into equal sized squares and give one to each member of the group. You will need as many pieces as you have participants. Additionally, give each person a pencil, ruler for help enlarging the picture, colored markers, and a clean sheet of paper. Instruct them to make the puzzle piece five times larger.

Problem Solving Activities for Adults

Divide your group into two teams. Line up the two teams front to back. Have the two groups face each other. Using chalk, spray paint, or masking tape (depending on the play surface) mark a square space for each person to stand on with one extra empty space between the two facing rows. You may also use a piece of paper for each person. The goal is for the two facing lines of players to change places.

Place these restrictions on movement:

• Only one person may move at a time.
• A person may not move around anyone facing the same direction.
• A person may not move backward.
• A person may not move around more than one person on the other team at a time.

Playing Card Mix-up

Divide your group into teams of six to eight participants. Give each team two decks of cards randomly mixed together. Tell the group they must sort them out without talking. As they working at the task, after a few minutes, change the way in which they are doing so using one of the following:

• If a team is sorting by suits from ace to king (4 stacks), tell them to collect the suits together by number (13 stacks).
• If a team begins by collecting the suits together, i.e. all the ones, twos, threes, etc., tell them to sort the suits from ace to king.

The team(s) that do so successfully by the end of a given time (depending on the size of your group) share what methods they used to accomplish the task.

Blindfolded games are always fun and provide the perfect challenge for adult problem solving. We have provided two for you.

Blind Formations

Have your group of adults put on blindfolds and form a large circle. Tie the ends of a rope together and lay in it a circle in the middle of the group, close enough that each person can reach down and pick up the rope. Tell them they must create a shape – a square, triangle, pentagon, etc. If you have a very large group, divide them into teams and provide a rope for each team. Let them compete to see who forms a particular shape quickest.

Line up Blind

Blindfold everyone and number the group by whispering a number to each individual beginning at one. Tell them to line up in numerical order without talking. Variations are many, with some of the favorites not requiring the whispering step being to line up according to height, birthday, surname, color of hair, etc.

Balloon Tower

Divide you group into teams of three and provide ten balloons and four 3-foot long strips of masking tape for each team. The object of this problem solving activity is to build the tallest freestanding tower in ten minutes. They can break the balloons if they wish. However, they may not use any additional materials and the tower must be built on a table or the floor. If you wish, you may add the following instructions:

• No talking.
• Each team member may use only one hand.
• One team member may not touch the materials and only give directions.

You can use one or more of these limitations in 60-second intervals. The first team to complete their tower wins this challenge.

Problem Solving Activities for Kids

The purpose of problem solving activities for kids is to get kids to think about a problem in a different way and have fun while solving it. Children will develop their creativity as they seek to implement a solution.

Walking the Plank

For this problem solving activity for older kids or teens, you will need four 2×6 boards. Divide your group into two teams with an equal number of children on each team. Place two of the four boards end to end on the ground or floor. Set the other two parallel to the first two about two or three feet apart. The goal is for each team to pass one board forward while standing on the other board in single file. If someone steps off a board, the team must start over. The team that succeeds in passing the boards a set number of times, or reaches a predetermined spot is the winner.

“Laser” Web

Use a large ball of string to create a giant web from one end of a room to the other. The goal is for individuals or teams to move through the web without touching the string. If they do so, they have been “zapped by a laser” and must try again. For greater suspense and for older players, use blindfolds or turn off the lights, allowing players to touch the string, but not pull it down or out of its original shape.

Group Drawing

Divide your group of kids into teams of three. Each person on the team has a one of the following roles:

• Drawer . The drawer attempts to recreate a pre-drawn design they cannot see. They take directions from the talker. They stand with their back to the talker and viewer and may not talk.
• Talker . The talker describes the design to the drawer, without seeing the design. They may question the viewer. They may not use hand gestures.
• Viewer . The viewer sees the design. However, they are not allowed to talk and must communicate nonverbally to the talker.  Additionally, they must not draw the design in the air or actually show the design with their gestures.

The activity ends when the viewers say they are satisfied with the drawings. You may wish to award a prize to the best drawing.

Prior to playing this game, write on individual slips of paper the names of animal pairs, one name on each slip. Distribute the slips of paper to each group, instructing them not to share which animal name they received. The kids then move around performing activities their animal might do. The goal is for the kids to get into pairs successfully in a set amount of time without talking or making any noises. Suggest the following activities:

• Cleaning or grooming
• Eating and drinking
• Walking or running

Alphabet Game

Have your players sit or stand in a circle. The goal is to shout out words in alphabetical order. Give the kids one of the following categories (or choose your own):

If a player takes longer than five seconds to think of a word, they are out. The last player remaining wins the game.

People achieve more when they solve problems and make decisions together. Our problem solving activities teach participants how to work out a solution, a talent useful in many different environments. Problem solving:

• Improves team work
• Helps participants address complex situations
• Utilizes different thinking styles
• Increases creativity
• Collectively leads to decision making
• Teaches both negotiation and cooperation

After completing a problem solving activity, encourage participants to discuss what process(es) they used in the exercise. Even kids are able to participate in such discussions. Also ask what was learned and if they have any opinions about how they could have solved the problem more efficiently.

Team-building exercises can improve problem solving and decision making in a new or established team. They work with every age group and in many different environments. Use our exercises to help solve problems and have some fun doing so.

Susan majored in English with a double minor in Humanities and Business at Arizona State University and earned a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Liberty University. She taught grades four through twelve in both public and private schools. Subjects included English, U.S. and world history and geography, math, earth and physical science, Bible, information technologies, and creative writing.

Susan has been freelance writing for over ten years, during which time she has written and edited books, newspaper articles, biographies, book reviews, guidelines, neighborhood descriptions for realtors, Power Point presentations, resumes, and numerous other projects.

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Thanks for your help!!

excellent ideas – thanks !

Excellent ideas.

Thank you. My students have requested we do team-building activities; I thought we would start with problem-solving.

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Helping you meet your family's screen-time goals through screen-free activities, book and toy recommendations, and more.

10 Fun Screen-Free Activities for 10-year-olds

If you are looking for some awesome screen-free activities for 10-year-olds, you have come to the right place.

Children in this age range can be difficult to entertain, but trust us that there are plenty of ways to do it without giving them a tablet or putting them in front of a TV.

What can a 10-year-old do when bored at home?

It’s a common sentiment for people to suggest that when our 10-year-old comes to us complaining of boredom we should just let them be bored.

On the opposite side of the fence, people are telling us to hand our 10-year-olds tablets or let them watch TV.

So, what are we supposed to do? What can a 10-year-old do when they are bored at home besides watching a screen?

To be sure, most 10-year-olds are capable of solving the issue of their own boredom.

In many situations, though, children still need the guidance of an adult , or at least the facilitation from an adult, to find activities they enjoy.

At this age, parents and caregivers should be observing kids for interests, as well as asking them outright what types of things they are interested in doing.

It can sometimes be helpful to suggest activity ideas to your 10-year-old if they are not sure what interests them.

Here are some ideas to get you started.

(This post contains affiliate links. Purchasing from these links costs you nothing extra, but helps with our website upkeep.)

10 fun screen-free activities for 10-year-olds

If you have a 10-year-old that enjoys problem-solving and making things, crafting is a great activity for them.

You can give them random loose supplies and let them use their imaginations, or, if you’ve got a child that enjoys following directions (I have one of those children), you can purchase crafting kits that are designed to yield a specific end result.

Here are some options for loose parts crafting kits (kits that have random craft supplies) :

• Blue Squid 3000+ Piece Deluxe Craft Chest
• 3 Layers Jumbo Arts and Crafts Supplies Warehouse
• Olly Kids Craft Kits Library 

Here are some great craft kit options for kids who enjoy working toward an assigned end product:

• Wooden Ornaments Craft Kits
• Create Your Own Gem Keychains
•   Craft & Clay Handprint Dish Kit

These are some of the favorites in our home, however, you should base your craft kit choices on your child’s own interests.

Origami is a great screen-free activity for 10-year-olds that love a creative challenge.

In addition to being a fun activity, origami is great for helping kids develop spatial reasoning and fine motor skills.

There are kits you can purchase that are better for beginners, like this one:

• Step-by-Step Origami Kit

If you’ve got a 10-year-old who enjoys more of a challenge, this is a better option:

• The Complete Book of Origami

Sewing is a great activity for a 10-year-old, as at this age they are typically capable of safely handling and successfully threading a needle.

You can get your child a sewing kit and ask them to find clothes, pillows, or stuffed animals that need mending.

Sewing School is a good book to help your child get inspired about sewing.

If you are looking for sewing project kits for beginners, here are some great choices:

• I Love Llamas Sewing Kit
• Craftorama Sewing Kit for Kids
• Pinwheel Crafts Panda Pillow Kit

Rock painting

Rock painting has become a big thing in recent years. Throughout the pandemic, it boomed in popularity as it was a way for people to stay connected to their communities.

Leaving painted rocks along trails and at playgrounds is still a fun and popular thing to do, though.

Invite your 10-year-old to paint rocks or write inspiring messages on them and leave them where people walk.

All you need for this screen-free activity is some acrylic paints and some rocks, which you may already have around your property.

Science experiments

Simple science experiments, like making slime, are fun for kids at this age.

There are plenty of books that contain science experiments for kids available. If go this route, make sure you read through the book yourself so you can get the ingredients and supplies your 10-year-old needs.

If you want to buy a kit with everything your child needs in it, here are some great options:

• MEL Chemistry — Science Experiments Subscription Box ( love this one)
• Japace 100+ Experiments Science Kit for Kids
• Crystal Growing Kit

I know, I know – if they enjoyed reading, surely picking up a book is the first thing they’d do when they got bored, right?

Of course, not everyone is destined to become an avid reader, but children generally enjoy reading a lot more when it’s the type of reading material they’re interested in.

Some 10-year-olds enjoy comic books, while others enjoy reading series.

Take your child to the library, let them explore a variety of reading materials, and check out what they choose – without judgment.

Art projects

If you’ve got a 10-year-old that enjoys drawing or painting, follow that interest by making sure they’ve got the art supplies and canvases they need.

Even if your child hasn’t shown you their creative side, they might enjoy making art just the same.

It can also be a great way for kids to destress and express their emotions productively.

Learning an instrument

One of my favorite screen-free activities for 10-years-olds is learning a new instrument.

There are so many beginner music books available online and in music stores.

Some great instruments for 10-year-olds to learn on their own are the piano and the ukelele.

Advance LEGO sets

LEGO sets aren’t just for little kids. In fact, there are more options for advanced builders available than kids’ sets.

From movie-themed LEGO sets to dinosaur and science-themed sets, there really is a lot to choose from that are perfect for 10-year-olds.

Here are some good ones:

• LEGO Marvel Super Heroes Infinity Gauntlet
• LEGO Star Wars: The Mandalorian Imperial Light Cruiser

Playing with friends

At 10 years old, kids tend to enjoy social activities and team sports over playing on their own for long periods of time.

If you choose any of the above activities for your child and they still complain of boredom, invite one of their friends over to join them.

They may not end up doing any of the activities you planned, but that’s ok – 2 heads are better than 1 and I assure you, they’ll come up with something.

There you have it – 10 awesome screen-free activities for 10-year-olds. All of these can be done right at home, too, which is nice.

Obviously, this list is not exhaustive. It should give you a head start on some of your own ideas, though.

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15 Best Problem Solving Activities: Foster Critical Thinking

1. Rolling Dice

2. build a tower, 3. tic tac toe, 4. scavenger hunt, 6. activity books, 7. board games, 9. human knot, 10. open-ended questions.

Problem solving activities for kids are a great way to teach them how to think critically and creatively, and how to develop a growth mindset . We’re sure you must have also played many educational games as a kid that helped you develop critical thinking or problem-solving- skills you’re using even today. These activities can be tailored to be fun and engaging, and they help kids understand that challenges and difficulties are opportunities to learn and grow instead of things to be feared. 

By providing kids with problem-solving activities, we can give them the tools to develop their problem-solving skills and build the confidence to tackle difficult challenges, which will be valuable to them throughout their life. It will also help them understand that their abilities can be developed with practice and hard work, encouraging them to persevere through difficult tasks and not give up easily when faced with obstacles. If you’re looking for some fun and engaging problem solving activities for children to develop a growth mindset, we have curated a list of activities for you.

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15 Best Problem Solving Activities for Kids

Things you’ll need: A die or dice, some flashcards and a pen

How to do: You can play tons of different games with dice. Playing with two dice encourages kids to quickly add up numbers and learn math in a fun way . One fun game you can play with a single die involves flashcards. For this game, you can assign a category to each number on the die and when the kid rolls the die, they have to name any 3 examples from the category assigned to the number rolled. For example, if number 4 is assigned to animals and it is rolled, they will have to name any 3 animals. 

Things you’ll need: Building blocks, lego, toilet rolls or anything that can be stacked

How to do: If you’re looking for problem solving activities for 5 year olds, this is for you. To play this game, just give the kids anything that can be stacked on top of the other. This can be building blocks, lego, Jenga blocks, toilet rolls, etc. The challenge is to stack one on top of the other and see how high a tower they can build. This game can be played in teams or individually as well. 

Things you’ll need: A tic tac tow board or pen and paper

How to do: This is one of the most exciting problem solving fun activities for students. You can either play this game on a tic tac toe board or on paper. If you’re playing it on paper, draw a table so that you have 9 boxes. Now each player must choose X or O and try to make a continuous row of their chosen symbol. Whoever succeeds wins. 

Things you’ll need: Small toys, stationery items, or anything you want to include in a scavenger hunt

How to do: Assign the teams or individual players specific items they have to find in a defined area. This can be an indoor or outdoor activity for kids . Give them a list of the things they need to find, and you can also give them hints on where to find these things. Whoever or whichever team finds all the things first wins. 

Things you’ll need: A puzzle game

How to do: Get a puzzle set. This can be a regular cardboard puzzle or a wooden puzzle and ask the players or teams to arrange it. You can make this a timed challenge or just let the kids solve the puzzle in their own time and have fun. 

Things you’ll need: Activity books and pencils

How to do: This is one of the best problem solving activities for kids. Activity books are great for children’s problem-solving skills to develop. Buy them activity books containing games like find the element, what’s wrong with the pictures, or hidden picture books. 

Things you’ll need: Board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly Junior, and Go Fish

How to do: Give them board games like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly Junior, Go Fish, etc. These board games help kids to develop logic, think deeper, plan ahead and solve problems. 

Things you’ll need: A chalk

How to do: Build a maze with chalk on the sidewalk. Make sure you add a few dead-end ways to make it more challenging for the kids. Once the kid is able to walk through and come out of the maze, take the game to the next level by adding even more dead-end ways and see how they overcome the challenge. 

Things you’ll need: Just a playground or garden

How to do: This is a great group activity for kids that’ll also teach them lots of skills. Ask the kids to form a circle and raise their right arm up. Now ask them to reach out to someone standing opposite to them in the circle and hold their left hand with their left hand. Now ask them to raise their left hands up and repeat the process with their right hands. The objective is to entangle them completely and then ask them to detangle themselves without letting go of anyone’s hands. 

Things you’ll need: Pen and paper 

How to do: Once you’re done with an activity, ask kids open-ended questions. These are questions that have no right or wrong answers. Some examples of such questions are- “Did you find this activity easy?”, “What did you enjoy the most about this activity?”, “How would you make this activity more fun?”, etc. 

11. Wool Web

Things you’ll need: Balls of yarn

How to do: This is one of the most exciting group problem solving classroom activities for kids . Divide the players into equal teams and ask them to form a circle. Hand them over one ball of yarn each and ask them to make a web of it amongst the teams. Set a time limit for this step, and once it is done, switch the webs so that none of the teams has their own webs. Now the teams will decide on one player from each team to be blindfolded. This blindfolded player will have to untangle to web assigned to their team with the help of verbal instructions from their teams. The team that untangles the web first wins. 

12. Fingertip Hula Hoop

Things you’ll need: Hula hoops

How to do: Divide the kids into teams of 6-8 for this game. Each team will stand in a circle and then be asked to raise their hands up. Now, place a hula hoop on top of their fingertips and ask them to bring it down slowly and make it touch the ground without it falling down or leaving the fingertips. The team to finish the task first wins. 

13. Obstacle Course

Things you’ll need: Pillows, blankets, mattresses, cones, balls, chairs, etc. 

How to do: Build an obstacle course indoors or outdoors with whatever you can find. This makes for one of the most engaging problem solving games for kids. Ask your kids to cross the obstacle course as fast as they can. To make it a bit more challenging, you can also ask them to race against each other to cross the obstacle course. 

14. Memory Games

Things you’ll need: Playing cards

How to do: For this fun cards game, place all the cards face down and take turns to turn 2-4 cards. If you are able to open two similar cards (in number), you get to keep the pair. The player with the highest number of cards with them in the end wins.  

15. Impromptu Plays

Things you’ll need: A stage

How to do: This is one of the best problem-solving exercises for kids to play in groups. If you have a large group, divide the kids into teams of 6-8. If the group is smaller, just make the kids stand individually. Now make a few chits on a theme that has questions that form a difficult situation or a challenge. For example, you can put in chits with questions like “You just found your friend cheating in an exam. What do you tell them?” or “Your younger sibling just broke your favorite toy. How do you react?”. Each team must enact a scene that includes the situation their chit has. If the group isn’t that big, each kid must speak about the same chit but have different perspectives. 

Why Are Problem Solving Skills Important for Kids?

Developing problem solving skills is extremely important for kids as it helps them to navigate easily around difficulties later on in life. As adults, we’re faced with challenging situations every day, and without our basic problem-solving skills, we wouldn’t be able to survive.

Problem solving skills also help kids to make effective decisions. It helps them resolve problems all at once without reducing them to smaller problems. Once kids develop problem solving skills, it is easier for them to develop other skills as well like critical thinking, cooperation and collaboration with others.

Having problem solving skills helps kids to become more creative and think differently than others and enables them to become independent. These skills also help kids develop decision-making skills and build their confidence along the way as they take the right decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the 5 problem solving skills.

The five problem solving skills are identifying the problem, producing possible results that might work, picking one solution from these, applying the chosen solution and evaluating the results.

What are some examples of problem-solving skills in kids?

Some of the problem solving skills in kids are research, creativity, team-building, communication, active listening, decision-making, and analysis. If you find some of these skills in a kid, chances are they’re great at problem solving.

What is problem solving learning?

According to cornell.edu, Problem solving learning is an approach wherein students are asked open-ended questions about a certain topic, and they must resolve and answer  the same in groups.

At what age do children begin problem-solving?

According to a study by Shaffer , kids can start developing basic problem solving skills from the age of three. This further continues to develop as they grow.

What are three problem-solving techniques

According to deakin.edu , the three most basic problem solving techniques are defining the problem, listing out all the possible solutions, and evaluating the options.

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10 Problem Solving Games for Kids

Playing board games is one of the best ways to spend time with your children. Why? Board games offer ample ways for kids to build their brains. Not only does playing games with your children improve family relationships and give opportunities for caring adults to help nurture good sportsmanship but the best games build kids' critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Note: this post contains affiliate links that may earn commission.

We've composed a list of problem solving games for kids that help develop the following critical skills:

• Advance planning - what steps do you need to make in order to reach your goal?
• Decision making - evaluating the benefits of multiple choices
• Drawing conclusions and inference - how will your opponent respond to your choice?
• Reevaluation - how you respond when the result is unexpected

Games work on all these skills while also being fun. What could be better? Here are our favorite 10 problem solving games for kids and families!

A note regarding age recommendations. I've included the manufacturer's recommendation, but most games can be played with younger kids, provided an adult is at the ready to assist.

BATTLE SHEEP

Every time you play Battle Sheep the playing space is different! That's because players start with 4 pasture boards that they take turns placing down to create the playing field. Kids are using advance planning and reevaluation right off the bat! Each player begins with 16 sheep and aims towards occupying as many pastures as they can. Players must chose between placing sheep or strategically blocking their opponents. We love this game that engages players' abstract thinking, strategic, and visual perception skills. Ages 7 and up. 2-4 players.

Find it: Amazon

The board changes every time you play, keeping players on their toes and constantly reassessing their strategy. Players use tiles to create paths along which they move their tokens. The objective is to create paths in such a way that keep you moving but force your opponents off the board. Players must anticipate other's moves and problem solve in order accomplish both goals. Tsuro is also surprisingly easy to learn! Ages 8 and up. 2-8 players.

MORE : Our favorite tile-based games

Players make their way through an ever-shifting maze in pursuit of treasure. Each player begins with a set number of treasure cards and the player who collects all their treasure first, wins. The board consists of moving panels and on their turn, a player shifts the panels in an effort to further their own progress or hinder that of others. Ages 7 and up. 2-4 players

Kingdomino is a tile placing game in which players must make choices regarding how to build their kingdom. The objective of the game is to score as many points as possible by matching tiles based on terrain. But some terrains score more than others. Players must decide if they want to build a lot of low scoring terrains, or fewer high-scoring terrains. Your tile choice also affects the order of play for the next round so it's important to be thoughtful. We've throughly enjoyed this game. An expansion pack is available. Ages 8 and up. 2-4 players

Find it: Kingdomino | Expansion pack | Queendomino

PHOTOSYNTHESIS

Photosynthesis from Blue Orange Games has an environmental theme. Players focus on growing trees through their life cycle from seed to maturity. Players strategize to "plant" their seeds where they will receive the most light, without being blocked in the future by other, maturing, trees. Successful game play requires planning and analysis. The artwork is beautiful and adds to the unique game play. We have enjoyed playing this game! Ages 8 and up. 2-4 players.

Azul's stunningly colorful game design was inspired by azulejos , a type of decorated ceramic tile introduced to Spain by the Moors and made popular in Portugal by King Manuel I. Players transform into tile laying artists, and must strategize over three phases of game play: choosing tiles, laying them and prepping for the next round. The object is to collect the most points by creating lines of 5 consecutive tiles. Each line of tiles must contain only one of each type of tile. The game ends when one player has completed a row, but that player is not necessarily the winner. Strategic problem solving and planning are required because players can lose points in the wall-tiling phase for any remaining, unused tiles. Ages 8 and up. 2-4 players.

Gobblet looks like Tic Tac Toe but players have large, medium and small pieces that nestle inside each other like Russian dolls. Players attempt to get four in a row by "gobbling" up smaller pieces. The game relies on advance planning, anticipating your opponent's moves and memory skills since you have to remember which Gobblets have been gobbled without peeking! Ages 7 and up. 2 players. A version for ages 5 and up is available as Gobblet Gobblers.

Find it: Gobblet | Gobblet Gobblers

LOGIC GAMES

Logic games are the ultimate problem solving entertainment! We love single player logic games and probably own an unhealthy number of these brain boosting puzzle games.

The following are some of our top favorites:

• Cat Crimes , ages 8 and up ( pictured above ) - see it as our game of the month feature
• Code Master , ages 8 and up - see it as our game of the month feature
• Castle Logix , ages 3 and up - see it as our game of the month feature

Mancala is a classic game every family should have. The board has two rows of depressions, plus end "home" bowls. The goal is to transfer the most stones from the rows into your home. A set of rules govern how you deposit and capture stones. You must use strategy to capture stones and ensure you do not leave them vulnerable to your opponent's greedy, greedy paws. Playing Mancala improves memory and observation skills. You must engage your strategic thinking skills to make sure you don't inadvertently give your opponent the opportunity to thwart you. Ages 8 and up. 2 players.

There's a reason the classic detective board game, Clue, remains so popular. I loved it when I was a kid and I bet you did, too. Players race to be the first person to solve the mystery of the who, what and where of a murder. Clue requires deductive reasoning and logic skills to narrow down the possibilities. Players must also vigilantly observe the actions of other players to help them make logical decisions. Ages 8 and up, 2-6 players ( much better with 3 or more players ).

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Discovery Play with Littles

2:01 pm ·

15 Powerful Problem Solving Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers

I looked over to her table and she’s crying. Again. While everyone else is happily working away, she sat there, unable to move, just crying. 

Not asking for help.

Not trying to solve her problem.

Just crying.

I took a deep breath before heading over. We’ve already been at this for several months…isn’t it about time the problem-solving has kicked in yet?

One glance and I could tell what her problem was. She didn’t have her pencil.

Know how I knew?

It laid on the floor beside her. In plain sight.

As a kindergarten teacher, I don’t jump right in and solve problems for kids. It’s good for them to try to solve the problem themselves. This is something she struggled with. 

I reminded myself of the need for patience and empathy as I walked up to her. “What’s wrong, Amanda?” 

“I…can’t…find…my…pencil….” she sputtered out between sobs. 

“Ok, that’s a problem we can solve. What have you tried?” 

“I don’t know.” 

After a long time trying to first, calm her down, and second, come up with some strategies she could try, she finally found her pencil. At that point, everyone else had finished the project. 

What is Problem Solving?

Problem-solving is the process of finding a solution to your problem . This can be quite tricky for some young children, especially those with little experience in finding more than one way to solve a problem.

Why is Problem Solving Important? 

Problem-solving skills are used throughout childhood into adulthood. As adults, we solve problems on a daily basis. Some problems we solve without thinking much- I wanted to make tacos for dinner but forgot to buy the ground beef. What are we going to have for dinner now?

Other problems are significantly more complicated. 

Problems for kiddos can be problems with friendships, the inability to find something that’s needed, or even what to do when things don’t go your way. 

Kids who lack problem-solving skills struggle to maintain friendships or even begin to attempt to solve their own problems. 

Children who lack problem-solving skills are at a higher risk for depression as well.

What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

Problem-solving skills are:

• Breaking Down a Problem into Smaller Parts
• Communication
• Decision-making
• Logical Reasoning
• Perseverance

That’s a big list to teach toddlers and preschoolers. Where do you begin?

The Problem-Solving Steps

Sometimes kids are so overwhelmed with frustration that it affects their ability to solve problems.

Kids feel safe in routines, and routines help them learn and grow. After a few times of repeating this routine, you’ll find your kiddo starts to do this on their own. 

It’s important not to skip straight to solving the problem , because your kiddo needs to be in a calm state of mind to solve the problem, and also they need to know their feelings are valid. 

• The first thing to do when your kiddo is struggling with problem-solving is to validate their emotions.

In doing this, they will feel more understood and learn that their emotions are okay. There are no bad feelings, and we must learn how to manage our emotions. 

This might sound something like “Oh, I can see you are really frustrated that the block won’t fit on there right. Let’s take some deep breaths to help us calm down before we think about what to do next.”

• Next, work through your calm-down process . This may be taking some deep breaths together, hugging a stuffie, or giving your kiddo some quiet time to calm down their heart and mind.
• Identify the problem . This sounds like something you may have already done (before the meltdown) but it’s important to be very clear on the problem you’re solving. Have the child tell you their problem out loud.
• Move on to solution-finding . When your kiddo is ready, talk about what the problem is and three possible solutions. When possible, let your kiddo do all of the talking. This allows him to practice his problem-solving skills. It’s important to remind him that the first thing he tries may not work, and that’s ok. There’s always another way to solve the problem. If he’s prepared for this, solutions that don’t work won’t be such a frustrating experience. 
• After you’ve done that, test your solutions one by one. See what works. If you haven’t found a solution yet, go back and think of different ways you might be able to solve your problem and try again.

Are you tired of hearing “It’s TOO HARD!” followed by a meltdown?

Using this one simple phrase you’ll get in this powerful lesson, you’ll not only be able to help your kiddo not give up but you’ll:

>Activate their superpower of perseverance so that they can turn around a meltdown and keep trying

>Inspire them to use perseverance …even when it’s hard

>Teach them to recognize the warning signs of giving up , and how to turn it around by taking control of their choices.

Grab your powerful FREE video lesson to teach your kiddo one of the most powerful keys to perseverance.

Powerful Activities that Teach Problem-Solving Skills to Toddlers & Preschoolers

These activities below may look simple, but don’t let that deter you from trying them. A lot happens in little developing brains and these powerful activities help toddlers and preschoolers make connections and develop {many} essential skills-more than just problem-solving.

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Puzzles are fun and a great way to encourage cognitive development in children. They are great for spacial reasoning and strengthening problem-solving skills. They also develop memory skills, critical thinking, and the ability to plan and execute the plan. Toddlers will enjoy the simple puzzles, and preschoolers will do great with floor puzzles with larger puzzle pieces.

Doing Simple Chores

Doing simple chores is a great way to teach children problem-solving skills, and it strengthens responsibility and perseverance as well. 

During the toddler years , you may start with just picking up their toys, or helping you put their dirty clothes in the hamper. 

Preschoolers can take their dirty dishes to the sink (or load them in the dishwasher), collect the trash, dust, wipe baseboards, and do their own personal care items like making their bed, taking care of their dirty clothes, and putting clean clothes away.

Stacking Rings

When watching a toddler play with stacking rings it doesn’t look like much is happening, but playing with these toys is full of ways to encourage development. It helps with visual and spacial perception and planning ahead, but it also with balance control, crossing the midline, creative play, and gross motor skills. Not to mention it’s a great opportunity to practice problem-solving. 

Playing Hide-and-Seek

Hide and seek has many surprising benefits for kids. Playing hide and seek is like a treasure hunt that helps develop gross motor skills and encourages physical development, as well as problem-solving skills. It also helps young children develop visual tracking, working memory, and social-emotional skills.

Imaginative Play

Imaginative play (also called role-play) builds important skills. Through pretending to be in different situations, kids develop social skills, emotional skills, better communication, and problem-solving skills. Imaginative play is a great idea for young toddlers all the way to older children.

Free Play 

Many young children don’t have {enough} time for free play. Free play is important for healthy brain development , not only developing imagination, cooperation, physical skills, and independence but also providing a great opportunity to strengthen problem-solving skills. 

Playing with Wooden Blocks

Building blocks are a fun way for children to develop creative thinking, imagination, problem-solving, fine motor skills, and if working with others, cooperation, communication, and friendship.

Playing Memory

Memory games improve attention, focus, visual recognition, and concentration. It helps children recognize details and of course, strengthens problem-solving skills. 

Ask Questions

When I see my son struggling with something, my first instinct is to give him choices or at least lead him in the right direction. The better thing to do is to ask very open-ended questions that lead his process, not his thoughts.

Questions like “What’s one way to solve your problem?” are much more effective in teaching problem-solving skills than “Well, where did you last see your stuffy?” 

Read Books and Social Stories

Reading books is one of my favorite ways to teach any skill. It’s extremely effective at teaching, and it’s also an amazing bonding time with kids.

When we read stories, our brain reacts as if we’re living in the story. This is why reading books about skills such as problem-solving is so effective. 

Kids of all ages learn from the people they love . (Yes, even those older kids who you don’t think are paying attention.) Often as adults, we’re too busy going through our daily routine to think about talking about the way we solved the problem at work that day.

Talking about how you use skills such as problem-solving, perseverance, and integrity is a great way to set an example, and an expectation that this is how we do things, and it will provide encouragement for your kiddo to do the same.

Scavenger Hunts

Scavenger hunts are a great group activity that can strengthen your child’s logical thinking and problem-solving skills.

When Your Kiddo is Ready, Add These Activities

Preschoolers would benefit from all of the fun activities on the list above and when they’re ready, feel free to add in the following activities.   

Mazes are great for problem-solving and perseverance, but your kiddo will need to have decent fine motor skills to do these activities. Mazes are one of our favorite activities. We love to take our activity book of mazes in the car with us for road trips. 

Board Games  

Board games are a good way to strengthen problem-solving, teamwork, planning skills, patience, sportsmanship, and communication skills. They also strengthen family relationships by providing some intentional time of connection .

Any board game can also be turned into an academic game with just a deck of cards for whatever skill you’re working on. If you’re working on the alphabet, put one letter on each card. Before each player’s turn, they draw a letter card and say the letter’s name. (You may accidentally forget the name of a letter every now and then to see if your kiddo is really paying attention!) 

Allow Opportunities for Hands-On Investigations

Kids are tactile. They love to touch and explore things with their hands. This is a good activity for toddlers also, as long as they are out of the putting everything in their mouth stage. Hands-on exploration is great for language development, sensory exploration, and problem-solving.

Allowing kids to investigate with their hands allows them to see how the world works up close. It also gives them time and space to try to make things work…and problem-solve when it doesn’t go as they think it should.

The Most Difficult Way (and Most Important Way) To Strengthen Problem-Solving Skills

Watching our kids struggle is hard ! We don’t want to see them having a hard time…and most of the time we don’t want to deal with the impending meltdown. Standing back and giving our kids time and space to work through even simple problems is hard to do. It’s also the most important way to strengthen problem-solving skills. 

As parents, we’re like frogs in boiling water. When our kids are infants, they need us to recognize their needs and solve them immediately. As they get older, they can point to what they want, but we still have a lot of interpreting and problem-solving to do on our own. If we aren’t careful, we stay in this stage and don’t teach our kiddos the steps to problem-solving for themselves. 

The next most difficult thing? Allowing natural consequences to happen. (As long as your child is safe of course.) If your child saves their money for a long time to buy a new toy, but walks down the toy aisle and picks up something you know they’ll be disappointed with, let it happen. It will teach a valuable lesson that will last for years to come.

Another Essential Part of Problem-Solving

Perseverance is a big part of problem-solving. We are rarely able to solve problems the first time, and it’s essential that kids can find more than one solution to a problem. Studies have found that perseverance is actually the biggest predictor of success, even more than aptitude or raw talent. 

An entire module is dedicated to perseverance in our course for kids, Super Kid Adventures . Your kiddo will get 25 teacher-led lessons on character traits (perseverance, empathy, friendship, responsibility, and wellness) and activities that take their learning further. 

Want a free preview? Grab a FREE Perseverance video lesson that teaches your kiddo one of the most important secrets that help them use perseverance.

Want More? 

If you like this, you’ll love: 

The Ultimate List of Books that Teach Perseverance

7 Simple Ways to Encourage Independence in Young Children

How to Help Your Child Develop Self-Help Skills

Your Turn 

What are your favorite ways to teach problem-solving skills?

About Elizabeth

Elizabeth is a mama of two boys, a former teacher, and the founder of Discovery Play with Littles. Her mission is to make raising kids with character simple and fun. Join us for our best learning through play ideas, character growth activities, and family connection ideas so you can watch your child thrive.

Reader Interactions

As a SLP trying to guide parents as I work with their child. I would like to know what toys to recommend to my parents as I assist in guiding their child’s development in cognition and expressive language.

Perseverance is the biggest predictor of success, even more than raw talent or aptitude.

Grab a FREE lesson to teach your kiddo one of the keys to perseverance...which is how we talk to our brains.

They'll learn what to say when they encounter something difficult, and why it's so important.

PLAY is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood. -Mr. Rogers

72+ Activities For 10 Year Olds (Printables + Reels)

Hey there, 10-year-olds! Are you ready for some awesome adventures? Well, get ready because we’ve got a bunch of cool activities just for you! At 10, you’re full of energy and curiosity, and you’re eager to try new things.

Whether you’re into outdoor fun or indoor games, there’s something for everyone. So grab your friends, and let’s explore a world of excitement and laughter!

From building forts to solving puzzles , the possibilities are endless. You can get creative with arts and crafts or go on thrilling scavenger hunts. Plus, there’s nothing like a friendly game of soccer or basketball to get your heart pumping.

Explore the mysteries of science with fun science activities , or express your creativity through paint activities and drawing activities. So, let’s get started on an unforgettable journey of fun and discovery!

Table of Contents

Activities For 10 Year Olds

Birthday cap making activity.

The Birthday Cap Making activity is a creative way for kids to get involved in party preparations. This activity allows children to design and decorate their own party hats, adding a personal touch to birthday celebrations.

Materials: Construction paper or cardstock, scissors, a glue stick, and tape. Additionally, gather decorative items like stickers, glitter, pom-poms, and an elastic string or ribbon.

• Begin by cutting a semicircle from the colored construction paper or cardstock. The size of the semicircle will determine the size of the cap.
• Roll the semicircle into a cone shape and secure the edges with glue or tape.
• Add decorative items like stickers, glitter, or pom-poms to make the cap more festive and fun.
• Attach an elastic string or ribbon to the sides of the cap to create a chin strap. This will help keep the cap in place when worn.

Painting Activity

The Painting activity is a wonderful way for kids to express their creativity and emotions through art. This activity allows children to experiment with colors , shapes , and textures, fostering their artistic skills and imagination.

Materials: Watercolor paints, paintbrushes, thick paper, a water cup, and a palette.

• Provide your child with paper and a selection of watercolor paints.
• Encourage your child to choose colors and dip their paintbrush into the water, then into the paint, and start painting on the paper.
• Let your child experiment with different brush strokes and techniques, such as blending colors, creating washes, or adding details.

Rocket Model Activity

The Rocket Model activity is an exciting project for kids who are fascinated by space and rockets. This hands-on activity allows children to build and decorate their own rocket models, sparking their imagination and interest in space exploration.

Materials: Empty toilet paper rolls, colored construction paper, scissors, a glue stick, tape, markers, and decorative items like stickers and glitter.

• Begin by covering the empty toilet paper roll with colored construction paper. Use glue to secure the paper around the roll.
• Cut out a cone shape from the construction paper to create the rocket’s top. Roll the cone shape into a point and secure it with tape or glue. Attach the cone to one end of the toilet paper roll.
• Cut out four triangle shapes from the construction paper to make the rocket’s fins. Glue the fins to the base of the rocket, evenly spaced around the roll.
• Use markers, crayons, or other decorative items to add details to the rocket, such as windows, doors, and designs.

Fun Ball Frenzy Activity

The Fun Ball Frenzy activity is an engaging game that kids will love. This activity helps improve hand-eye coordination and encourages teamwork and friendly competition.

Materials: Plastic balls in various colors, construction paper, cups, and a bottle cap.

• Set up the activity by placing several cups on a table or flat surface. Arrange them in a row.
• Cut the construction paper into two strips and glue each end to the other. Now, stick the bottle cap into the paper. Your kid will use this as a spoon or a scoop.
• Let your kid use the spoon to transfer as many balls as possible into the cups.
• Start the game and encourage the children to use their spoons to scoop up the balls and carefully place them into the cups.

Bouncing Ball Activity

The Bouncing Ball activity is a fun game that helps kids improve their coordination and concentration. This simple yet engaging activity involves bouncing balls into cups, making it perfect for a fun-filled afternoon.

Materials:  Cardboard, scissors, glue, paper cups, and small balls or ping pong balls.

• Cut the cardboard into a rectangular shape and glue the paper cups onto it.
• Place the balls inside one of the cups.
• Instruct the child to bounce the balls one at a time into the cups, aiming to get the balls into the cups.

Cuddling Your Little Siblings Activity

The Cuddling Your Little Siblings activity is a heartwarming way for children to bond with their younger siblings. This activity fosters affection, trust, and a sense of security, making it perfect for family bonding time.

Need : Comfortable space.

• Find a comfortable and safe space where both children can sit or lie down together.
• Encourage the older sibling to gently hold and cuddle their younger sibling.
• To make the moment even more special, the older sibling can read a book, sing a song, or simply talk to the younger sibling.

Paper Spinner Making Activity

The Paper Spinner Making activity is a creative project that kids will love. This fun craft allows children to make their own colorful paper spinners that they can play with and show off to their friends.

Materials: Colored construction paper.

• Cut construction paper into a square.
• Fold it in Half.
• Fold Half Again.
• Now, Fold half again transversely.
• With the closed edge of the paper facing you, fold the left side up to make a triangle and the right side down to do the same. Repeat with the other piece of paper.
• Follow the same process with another paper.
• Starting with the rightmost triangle on the bottom piece, fold it into the center. Continue folding each triangle clockwise into the center.
• Take the final fold and tuck it into the pocket created by the first fold. Lift the pocket slightly if needed to fit it in.
• Fold along the creases to make the spinner less flat and help it spin better.

Stone Painting Activity

The Stone Painting activity is an artistic project that allows kids to transform ordinary stones into colorful pieces of art. This creative activity is perfect for developing fine motor skills and encouraging imagination.

Materials: Smooth, clean stones and acrylic paints are used, along with paintbrushes and a water container.

• Start by selecting smooth, clean stones. Wash and dry them if necessary to ensure a clean surface for painting.
• Set up your painting area with the stones, acrylic paints, paintbrushes, water container, and paper towels.
• Begin painting your stones with various designs, patterns, or even tiny pictures.
• Allow the paint to dry completely before handling the stones. If desired, use markers to add finer details once the paint is dry.

Paper Flower Making Activity

The Paper Flower Making activity is a creative project that allows kids to craft beautiful flowers using simple materials. This activity is perfect for enhancing fine motor skills and encouraging artistic expression.

Materials: Colored paper or cardstock, scissors, and glue are used for crafting. Green pipe cleaners or straws serve as stems.

• Start by selecting colored paper or cardstock. You can use different colors for variety.
• Cut the paper into different shapes such as petals, leaves, and flower centers. You can draw the shapes first and then cut them out.
• Assemble the flowers by gluing the petals around the flower center. You can layer the petals to create a more realistic look.
• Attach the flower to a green pipe cleaner or straw to create the stem. If using a pipe cleaner, you can twist it to secure the flower.

Paper and Straw Activity

The Paper and Straw Activity is a simple game that challenges children to use their breath to move small pieces of paper using a straw. This activity is great for developing oral motor skills and can be a lot of fun in a competitive or cooperative setting.

Materials: Straws, small pieces of paper, and paper plates or a flat surface.

• Cut the paper into small squares or shapes.
• Place the paper pieces on a paper plate or flat surface.
• Each child gets a straw. They can sit or stand around the table with their paper pieces in front of them.
• The objective is to move the paper pieces from one side of the plate to the other using only their breath through the straw.

Garden Pinwheel Activity

The Garden Pinwheel Activity is a delightful craft project that combines creativity and outdoor fun. This activity is perfect for a sunny day in the garden and helps children develop fine motor skills and an understanding of wind energy.

Materials: Square-shaped colored paper, push pins, and either straws or wooden dowels.

• Start with a square piece of colored paper. Using a ruler and pencil, draw diagonal lines from each corner to the center, but do not cut all the way to the center. Leave about 1 inch uncut in the middle.
• Cut along the lines towards the center, stopping before you reach the middle.
• Fold every other corner into the center of the square and secure them with a small dot of glue or tape. You should now have a pinwheel shape.
• Push a pin through the center where all the points meet and then into the top of a straw or wooden dowel. Be careful not to push it too tight so the pinwheel can spin freely.

Foosball Playing Activity

The Foosball Playing Activity is a fantastic way to bring the excitement of soccer indoors. This tabletop game is perfect for kids who enjoy fast-paced, competitive play.

Materials: A foosball table and foosball balls, with players or teams participating in the game.

• Set up your foosball table in a suitable location where players have enough room to move around.
• Each player should practice moving the rods smoothly and quickly, aiming to both defend their goal and score on the opponent.
• Start the game by serving the ball through the serving hole. Players take turns doing this.
• The game continues until one team scores a predetermined number of goals, typically 5 or 10, to win the match.
• Remember to switch sides after each game to keep the play fair and balanced.

DIY Paper Binoculars Activity

The Bird Binoculars Activity is a lovely craft that sparks the imagination in children. It’s a playful way to introduce them to birdwatching and exploration, even if it’s just pretend.

Materials:  Two toilet paper rolls or construction papers, colorful washi tape, glue stick or child-safe glue, googly eyes, pink paper for the beak, string to hang the binoculars around the neck, scissors (to be used with adult supervision).

• Made rolls through construction papers and secure them with glue.
• Decorate the rolls with colorful washi tape.
• Glue the two rolls together side by side to form the binoculars.
• Cut out wings from the yellow paper and glue them to the sides of the binoculars.
• Attach the googly eyes and the pink paper beak to the front of the binoculars.
• Punch holes at the outer sides of each roll and tie the string to them so the binoculars can be worn around the neck.

Letter to Santa Activity

letters to Santa is a cherished tradition that allows children to communicate their Christmas wishes directly to the North Pole. It’s a fun way for them to practice their  writing skills  and express their hopes for the holiday season.

Materials:  Festive letter template or stationery, pens, pencils, markers, optional stickers or stamps for decoration, envelope for mailing.

• Begin the letter with a greeting to Santa.
• Introduce yourself and share how you’ve behaved this year.
• List the gifts you’d like to receive, being as clear and specific as possible.
• Include a thank you to Santa for considering your wishes.
• Sign your name at the end of the letter.
• Decorate the letter with drawings, stickers, or stamps.
• Place the letter in the envelope and address it to Santa at the North Pole.

Sewing Activity

The Sewing Activity is a great way for kids to learn basic sewing skills. It helps them be  creative  and learn to follow  patterns  while working with different textures.

Materials:  Burlap or another fabric with a loose weave, a large, blunt needle, and colorful yarn or thick thread.

• Prepare the fabric by stretching it across a frame or securing it in a hoop to keep it taut.
• Thread the needle with a length of yarn or thread, tying a knot at the end.
• Describe basic sewing techniques such as running stitch, cross stitch, or backstitch.
• Encourage your child to practice these stitches, creating simple patterns or shapes on the fabric.
• As they work, discuss the names of the stitches and how they can be used in various sewing projects.

Kite Making Activity

This colorful and fun kite-making activity allows children to create their own kites using simple materials. It’s a wonderful way to improve their crafting skills and enjoy some outdoor fun.

Materials: Colored construction paper, glue or tape, and scissors.

• Place the colored construction paper in front of your child. Explain that they will be making their own kite .
• Help your child cut the paper into a diamond shape, which will be the body of the kite.
• Tie a piece of string to the point where the sticks cross, leaving enough length for the kite to fly. Decorate the kite with additional pieces of paper, stickers, or drawings to make it unique.

Bookmark Making Activity

This creative and fun bookmark-making activity allows children to design their own bookmarks using simple materials. It’s a fantastic way to encourage reading and add a personal touch to their books.

Materials: Colored construction paper or cardstock, scissors, markers, crayons, colored pencils, glue or tape, and decorative items such as stickers, googly eyes, glitter, etc.

• Place the colored construction paper or cardstock in front of your child. Explain that they will be making their own bookmarks.
• Help your child cut the paper into small squares or other fun shapes that can be used as bookmarks.
• Encourage your child to decorate their bookmarks using markers, crayons, or colored pencils. They can draw characters, patterns, or write their names.
• Add any decorative items like stickers, googly eyes, or glitter to make the bookmarks unique and colorful. Use glue or tape to attach these items.

Igloo Making Activity

The ‘Igloo Making Activity’ is a fun project where kids work together to build small igloos using different materials.

Materials:  Cotton balls for snow, plastic or paper cups to form the igloo’s dome, and additional decorative elements such as craft penguins and a tiny snowman made from  playdough  or cotton balls.

• Use half of a plastic or paper cup as the base of the igloo, cutting a small entrance for added realism.
• Glue cotton balls or white craft foam around the cup to create the igloo’s structure.
• Decorate the surrounding base with cotton to resemble snow and place your craft penguins and snowman around the igloo.
• Add a small festive tree to complete the winter scene.

Jewelry Making Activity

This fun and creative jewelry-making activity allows children to design their own necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. It’s a fantastic way to enhance their crafting skills and express their creativity.

Materials: Colored clay or polymer clay, string or yarn, scissors, and earring hooks.

• Place the colored clay or polymer clay in front of your child.
• Help your child shape the clay into various forms such as beads, pendants, and charms. They can create different shapes like fruits, circles, or abstract designs.
• Once the shapes are ready, make small holes in the beads and pendants so they can be threaded onto the string.
• Thread the beads and pendants onto the string or yarn to create necklaces, bracelets, and even earrings. Use earring hooks for making earrings. Secure the ends of the string with knots to finish the jewelry pieces.

Read a Comic Activity

This enjoyable reading activity encourages children to explore the world of comics. It’s a great way to make reading fun and improve literacy skills.

Materials: A variety of comic books or graphic novels, along with a cozy reading area furnished with bookmarks.

• Place a selection of comic books or graphic novels in front of your child. Explain that they will be reading comics, which combine pictures and words to tell a story.
• Help your child choose a comic book that interests them. Make sure they are comfortable in a cozy reading space.
• Encourage your child to read through the comic book, enjoying the colorful illustrations and engaging storylines. They can use bookmarks to keep their place.

Penstand Making Activity

This creative penstand-making activity allows children to design their own pen holders using simple materials. It’s a fun way to organize their stationery and develop their crafting skills.

Materials: Colored paper or cardstock, scissors, glue or tape, and a straw.

• Place the colored paper or cardstock in front of your child. Explain that they will be making their own penstand.
• Help your child cut the paper into strips. These strips will be used to create a woven pattern around the base.
• Wrap the strips of paper around the empty tin can or cardboard tube, weaving them in and out to create a pattern. Secure the ends with glue or tape.
• Once the weaving is complete, ensure all the strips are securely attached. Your child can add additional decorations like stickers or drawings to personalize their penstand.

Chess Playing Activity

The Chess playing activity is a great way to develop strategic thinking and problem-solving skills in kids. Chess is a classic game that challenges the mind and enhances cognitive abilities, making it both fun and educational.

Materials:  A chessboard and chess pieces.

• Set up the chessboard with the pieces in their correct starting positions.
• Explain the basic rules of chess to your child, including how each piece moves and the objective of the game.
• Take turns moving the pieces according to the rules, aiming to checkmate the opponent’s king.
• Encourage your child to think ahead and plan their moves strategically to outsmart their opponent.

I Spy Summer Activity

This exciting and educational I Spy Summer activity helps children develop their observation and counting skills. It’s a fun way to keep them engaged and entertained while learning.

Materials: Printed I Spy Summer worksheet or for that you can use our printable, and pencils.

• Place the printed I Spy Summer worksheet in front of your child. Explain that they need to find and count the various summer-themed items on the sheet.
• Encourage your child to look carefully at the worksheet and spot the items listed at the bottom of the page.
• As they find each item, they can color it in and keep track of how many they have found by writing the number next to the corresponding picture at the bottom.

Cloud Math Activity

This engaging Cloud Math activity helps children practice rounding numbers to the nearest ten. It’s a fun way to reinforce their math skills and make learning enjoyable.

Materials: A printed Cloud Math worksheet, a pencil, and an eraser.

• Place the printed Cloud Math worksheet in front of your child.
• Encourage your child to look at each number and find the two tens it falls between.
• Show them how to round the number down to the nearest ten.

Maze Activity

This fun maze activity helps children develop their problem-solving skills and spatial awareness. It’s a great way to keep them engaged and entertained.

Materials: A printed maze worksheet or simply use our printable, a pencil, and an eraser.

• Place the printed Maze worksheet in front of your child.
• Encourage your child to use a pencil to trace a path through the maze. If they make a mistake, they can use an eraser to correct it and try a different route.
• Let your child take their time to find the correct path, offering guidance if needed. Celebrate when they successfully complete the maze.

Football Activity

Football is a fantastic activity for children to develop their motor skills, coordination, and teamwork. It’s an exciting game that keeps kids active and engaged while having fun outdoors.

Materials:  Football and open space.

• Find an open space where your child can kick the football around safely.
• Give your child a football and explain the basic rules of football, such as dribbling, passing, and shooting.
• Show them how to dribble the ball by tapping it lightly with their feet while moving forward.
• Encourage them to practice passing the ball back and forth with a friend or family member.

Chores Card Activity

This interactive chores card activity teaches children responsibility and the importance of contributing to household tasks. It’s a great way to make chores fun and manageable.

Materials: A printed Chores Card worksheet and pencils.

• Place the printed Chores Card worksheet in front of your child. Explain that each box represents a different chore they can help with around the house.
• Encourage your child to choose a few chores to complete each day.
• Once they finish a chore, they can mark it off with a colored pencil, marker, or sticker.

Thanks Giving Note Activity

This heartfelt Thanksgiving Note activity helps children express gratitude and appreciate the good things in their lives. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Materials: A printed Thanksgiving Note worksheet and a pencil or pen.

• Place the printed Thanksgiving Note worksheet in front of your child.
• Encourage your child to fill in each prompt on the worksheet, reflecting on what they appreciate most in their life. They can write about family, friends, favorite activities, or anything else that makes them happy.
• Once they have filled out the worksheet, they can use colored pencils or markers to decorate it and add personal touches.

Word Scramble Activity

This educational word scramble activity helps children improve their spelling and problem-solving skills by unscrambling letters to form words. It’s a great way to enhance their vocabulary and critical thinking.

Materials: A printed word scramble worksheet or printout our printable for the same, and a pencil or pen.

• Place the printed Word Scramble worksheet in front of your child.
• Encourage your child to look at each scrambled word and try to figure out the correct word by rearranging the letters.
• As they solve each word, they can write the correct word in the space provided next to the scrambled letters.

Skate Boarding Activity

This exciting skateboarding activity helps children develop their balance, coordination, and confidence. It’s a fun way to stay active and learn new skills outdoors.

Materials: Skateboard and Smooth, flat surface for riding.

• Find a smooth, flat surface like a driveway or a quiet street for riding.
• Show your child how to place one foot on the front part of the wave skateboard and the other on the back.
• Teach them to wiggle their hips and shift their weight to make the skateboard move forward.

Word Search Activity

In this “Word Search Activity,” children can improve their vocabulary and spelling skills while having fun finding hidden words. This activity is perfect for improving concentration and attention to detail.

Materials: A word search puzzle printable and either a pencil or pen.

• Print out a word search puzzle that includes a list of words to find. Ensure the puzzle is appropriate for your child’s reading level.
• Provide your child with a pencil or pen to circle the words they find.
• Let your child find and circle all the words listed below the puzzle. Encourage your child to scan the rows and columns carefully.
• Let your child start searching for the words, guiding them to look for the first letter of each word and then check the surrounding letters. Remind them that words can be hidden in various directions, including horizontally, vertically, and diagonally.

Find The Difference Activity

This fun Find The Difference activity helps children develop their observation and attention-to-detail skills by identifying differences between two similar pictures. It’s a great way to keep them entertained and sharp.

Materials: A printed Find The Difference worksheet and a pencil or pen.

• Place the printed Find The Difference worksheet in front of your child.
• Encourage your child to look carefully at both pictures, comparing them to spot any differences. These could be changes in colors, missing items, or different shapes.
• As they find each difference, they can circle it with a pencil or pen. For added fun, they can use colored pencils or markers to make it more colorful.

Scavenger Hunt Activity

This exciting Scavenger Hunt activity helps children develop their observation and problem-solving skills by searching for specific items. It’s a fun way to encourage exploration and engagement in their surroundings.

Materials: A printed scavenger hunt worksheet and a pencil or pen.

• Place the printed Scavenger Hunt worksheet in front of your child.
• Encourage your child to explore their environment, looking for the items on the list. This could be around the house, in the classroom, or outdoors, depending on where you are conducting the scavenger hunt.
• As your child finds each item, they can tick the corresponding box on the worksheet. Encourage them to keep track of how many items they have found and how many are left.

Hopscotch Activity

This classic hopscotch activity helps children develop their coordination, balance, and motor skills while having fun. It’s a wonderful way to encourage physical activity and play outdoors.

Materials: Chalk and small stones.

• Use the chalk to draw a hopscotch grid on the ground, numbering the squares from one to nine.
• They need to throw a small stone or marker onto the first square.
• Hop through the grid on one foot, skipping the square with the stone.
• Pick up the stone on the way back, still hopping on one foot. Repeat the process.

Crossword Puzzle Activity

This educational crossword puzzle activity helps children improve their vocabulary and spelling skills while learning about family members. It’s a great way to engage their minds and have fun with words.

Materials: A printed crossword puzzle worksheet and a pencil or pen.

• Place the printed Crossword Puzzle worksheet in front of your child.
• Encourage your child to look at each picture and think about the family member it represents (e.g., mother, father, siblings).
• As they figure out each word, they can write it in the corresponding boxes on the crossword grid.

Lunch Box Notes Activity

This heartwarming Lunch Box Notes activity helps parents and children connect through personalized notes in their lunch boxes. It’s a great way to brighten their day and encourage positive messages.

Materials: A printed Lunch Box Notes worksheet, scissors, and a pen or marker.

• Place the printed Lunch Box Notes worksheet in front of you.
• Use scissors to carefully cut out each note from the worksheet.
• Personalize each note with a pen or marker by adding a special message, drawing, or encouraging words. You can also leave the notes as they are if they already contain uplifting messages.
• Place one note in your child’s lunch box each day to surprise and encourage them during their lunch break.

Watering Plant Activity

This simple watering plant activity teaches children about the importance of caring for plants and the environment. It’s a great way to develop responsibility and a love for nature.

Materials: Water plants with a watering can or spray bottle.

• Provide your child with a watering can or spray bottle filled with water.
• Take your child to the plants or garden area. Show them how to gently water the plants, making sure to give each plant enough water without overwatering.
• Encourage your child to water the plants regularly, checking the soil to see if it is dry and needs watering.

Math Activity

This engaging math activity worksheet helps children practice various math skills, including counting, subtraction, ordering numbers, and simple arithmetic. It’s a fun way to reinforce their math knowledge and boost their confidence.

Materials: A math activity worksheet and either a pen or pencil.

• Print out a math activity worksheet with various exercises such as counting, subtraction, ordering numbers, and solving word problems.
• Sit down with your child and go through each question on the worksheet. Encourage them to read the instructions carefully and think about each problem.
• Guide your child in solving the problems, starting with easier questions and gradually moving to more challenging ones. Use a pencil so they can erase and correct any mistakes.

Back To School Checklist Activity

This organized Back To School Checklist activity helps children and parents prepare for the new school year by ensuring they have all the necessary supplies and documents. It’s a great way to make the back-to-school transition smooth and stress-free.

Materials: A printed Back To School Checklist worksheet and pencil or pen.

• Print out or create a back to school checklist that includes categories like school supplies, lunch supplies, clothing, and school documents.
• Sit down with your child and go through the checklist together. Discuss each item and why it is important for school.
• Let your child go through the checklist and tick off the things that they have done.

Cycling Activity

This fun cycling activity helps children develop their physical fitness, balance, and coordination. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and promote an active lifestyle.

Materials: Bicycle and safe riding area.

• Ensure your child has a properly fitting bicycle.
• Find a safe area for riding, such as a park or quiet street.
• Show your child how to mount the bicycle and start pedaling.
• Encourage them to ride around, practicing turning and stopping safely.

Super Hero Bingo Cards Activity

This exciting Super Hero Bingo Cards activity helps children develop their observation and matching skills while having fun. It’s a great way to enjoy a game with a superhero theme.

Materials: Printed Super Hero Bingo cards, scissors, and markers or bingo chips.

• Place the printed Super Hero Bingo Cards in front of you. Use scissors to cut out the individual superhero cards.
• Mix the individual superhero cards and place them in a stack or a container. One person will be the caller who picks and announces the superheroes one by one.
• As the caller announces each superhero, players look for the matching superhero on their bingo cards and mark it with a marker or place a bingo chip on it.
• The first player to mark off a complete row, column, or diagonal on their bingo card shouts “Bingo!” and wins the game.

Write a Letter to Friend Activity

This creative activity helps children develop their writing skills and express their feelings by writing a letter to a friend. It’s a great way to strengthen friendships and practice communication.

Materials: Paper and a pen or pencil.

• Provide your child with paper and a pen or pencil.
• Encourage your child to start the letter with a friendly greeting, such as “Dear [Friend’s Name].”
• Once the letter is written, your child can decorate it with stickers or drawings to make it more personal and colorful.
• If using an envelope, help your child fold the letter and place it inside. They can write their friend’s address on the envelope and add a stamp if they will mail it.

Yoga Moves Activity

This calming Yoga Moves activity helps children develop flexibility, strength, and mindfulness. It’s a great way to introduce them to the practice of yoga and promote physical and mental well-being.

Materials: A yoga mat or soft surface, comfortable clothing, and an open space.

• Set up a quiet and spacious area where your child can practice yoga. Lay out a yoga mat or ensure the surface is soft and comfortable.
• Have your child wear comfortable clothing that allows for free movement. Keep a water bottle nearby to stay hydrated.
• Start with simple yoga poses suitable for children, such as Tree Pose, Cat-Cow, Downward Dog, and Child’s Pose.
• Encourage your child to hold each pose for a few breaths, focusing on their breathing and maintaining balance. Remind them to breathe deeply and slowly.

Play Hide & Seek Game

This classic Hide & Seek game helps children develop their problem-solving and social skills while having fun. It’s a timeless activity that encourages physical activity and interaction.

Materials: Safe indoor or outdoor area with plenty of hiding spots.

• Choose a safe play area with plenty of places to hide, such as a backyard or a spacious indoor area.
• Select one child to be “it” and have them count to a predetermined number while covering their eyes.
• The other children hide while “it” is counting.
• Once the counting is done, “it” tries to find the hidden children.
• The first child found becomes “it” for the next round, and the game continues.

Tug of War Game

This energetic Tug of War game helps children develop their physical strength and teamwork skills. It’s a great way to encourage friendly competition and physical activity.

Materials: A long, sturdy rope and a marker or ribbon to mark its center. Additionally, ensure you have an open space to use.

• Mark the center of the rope with a ribbon or marker. This helps identify which team is winning during the game.
• Divide the players into two teams. Try to make the teams evenly matched in terms of strength and number of players.
• Have each team stand on opposite ends of the rope. The teams should pull the rope in opposite directions.
• When you say “Go,” each team pulls as hard as they can. The goal is to pull the opposing team across a designated line or marker on the ground.

Uno Card Game

The Uno Card Game is a timeless classic, perfect for all ages. Its fast-paced, engaging play is ideal for family gatherings, parties, or game nights. With easy rules and vibrant cards, Uno improves strategic thinking and provides quality time with loved ones.

Materials: Uno card deck.

• Gather the players and sit around a table or a flat surface. Shuffle the Uno deck thoroughly to ensure a random distribution of cards.
• Deal seven cards to each player. Place the remaining deck in the center as the draw pile, and turn over the top card to start the discard pile.
• The player to the left of the dealer goes first. They must match a card from their hand to the top card on the discard pile by either number, color, or symbol.
• If a player cannot play a matching card, they must draw a card from the draw pile. If they can play the drawn card, they do so immediately; otherwise, their turn ends.
• Continue taking turns in a clockwise direction. Use special action cards (such as Skip, Reverse, Draw Two, Wild, and Wild Draw Four) to add strategy and excitement to the game.

Locate the Country Activity

This educational Locate the Country activity helps children improve their geography skills by identifying countries on a map. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn about different parts of the world.

Materials: A world map or globe and push pins or stickers.

• Provide your child with a world map or globe.
• Choose a country for your child to find. Give them hints or facts about the country to make it more interesting (e.g., “This country is famous for its pyramids” for Egypt).
• Encourage your child to locate the country on the map or globe.
• Once they find the country, they can mark it with a push pin or sticker. Repeat the process with different countries to expand their knowledge.

Reading Newspaper Activity

This educational Reading Newspaper activity helps children improve their reading skills and stay informed about current events. It’s a great way to encourage curiosity and improve comprehension.

Materials: Newspaper.

• Select a newspaper that is suitable for your child’s reading level. You can choose a print version or access digital articles on a tablet or computer.
• Sit down with your child and browse through the newspaper together. Let them choose articles that interest them, such as news stories, sports updates, or entertainment pieces.
• Read the chosen articles aloud or have your child read them independently. Use a highlighter or pen to mark any important points or unfamiliar words.

Plant Planting Activity

This enjoyable Plant Planting activity helps children learn about nature, responsibility, and the life cycle of plants. It’s a great way to spend time outdoors and nurture a love for gardening.

Materials: Plant pots or garden space, soil, seeds or young plants, a watering can, and gardening gloves.

• Choose the plants you want to grow, such as flowers, herbs, or vegetables. Gather all the necessary materials, including seeds or seedlings, pots, soil, and gardening tools.
• Fill the pots or garden space with soil, leaving enough room to plant the seeds or seedlings. Show your child how to make small holes in the soil for planting.
• Place the seeds or seedlings in the holes and cover them gently with soil. Explain the importance of spacing and depth for healthy growth.
• Water the plants thoroughly using a watering can. Teach your child how to care for the plants, including watering regularly, providing sunlight, and removing any weeds.

Go to Funfair Activity

This exciting Go to Funfair activity helps children enjoy outdoor fun , engage in various rides and games, and create lasting memories. It’s a fantastic way to spend time with family and friends while experiencing the joy of a funfair.

Materials: Bring tickets or passes for the funfair, comfortable clothing, and shoes. Also, bring money for rides, games, and snacks.

• Plan your visit by checking the funfair’s schedule, location, and ticket prices. Make sure to dress your child in comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for a day of activity.
• Bring enough money to cover the cost of rides, games, and snacks. It’s also helpful to carry a small backpack for any belongings and essentials.
• Upon arrival, explore the different attractions and rides available. Let your child choose which rides they want to go on and which games they want to play.

Swimming Activity

This healthy Swimming activity helps children develop their physical fitness, water safety skills, and confidence. It’s a great way to stay active and have fun in the water.

Materials: A swimsuit, towel, goggles, and optionally a swim cap, along with access to a pool or safe swimming area.

• Choose a safe swimming location, such as a local pool, beach, or lake. Ensure there is adult supervision and that the area is appropriate for your child’s swimming skill level.
• Have your child put on their swimsuit, and provide them with goggles and a swim cap if desired. Make sure to bring towels for drying off afterwards.
• Begin with a warm-up by having your child do some simple stretches and walking in the shallow end of the pool or along the shore. This helps prepare their muscles for swimming.

T-Shirt Painting Activity

This creative T-Shirt Painting activity allows children to express their artistic side while designing their own wearable art. It’s a great way to spend time crafting and making personalized clothing.

Materials: Plain white t-shirts, fabric paints, and paintbrushes.

• Set up a clean and organized workspace. Ensure the t-shirts are clean and dry before starting. Gather all the necessary materials, including fabric paints, markers, and various paintbrushes.
• Encourage your child to plan their design. They can sketch it on paper first or draw lightly on the t-shirt with a pencil to guide their painting.
• Let your child start painting their t-shirt. Use different brushes and sponges to create various effects. Remind them to let each color dry before applying another to avoid smudging.

Cricket Playing Activity

This engaging Cricket Playing activity helps children develop their physical fitness, teamwork, and strategic thinking. It’s a fun way to enjoy the outdoors and learn the basics of cricket.

Materials: A bat, ball, wickets, and protective gear like pads, gloves, and a helmet.

• Set up a playing area with enough space for a cricket pitch. Place the wickets at both ends of the pitch, ensuring they are securely in the ground.
• Provide each child with the necessary equipment, including a bat, ball, and protective gear. Explain the basic rules of cricket, including how to score runs, get out, and the roles of different players.
• Start with a practice session where the children can get familiar with batting, bowling, and fielding techniques.

Badminton Playing Activity

This energetic Badminton Playing activity helps children improve their agility, hand-eye coordination , and overall fitness. It’s a fun way to enjoy some friendly competition and stay active.

Materials: Badminton rackets, shuttlecocks, and a net.

• Set up a badminton net in a safe and open space, such as a backyard or a sports hall. If you don’t have a net, you can simply mark a dividing line on the ground.
• Provide each child with a badminton racket and a few shuttlecocks.
• Start by practicing simple serves and rallies to help the children get comfortable with handling the racket and hitting the shuttlecock.

Visit Amusement Park

A trip to an amusement park is a fantastic way for children to experience excitement, adventure, and fun. This activity provides opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and creating lasting memories.

Materials: Tickets or passes for the amusement park and comfortable clothing and walking shoes, along with snacks and a water bottle.

• Plan your visit by checking the amusement park’s website for opening hours, ticket prices, and any special events or attractions. Make sure to dress in comfortable clothing and shoes.
• Upon arrival, grab a park map and plan your route. Decide which rides and attractions you want to visit first and make sure to check height and age restrictions for each ride.
• Enjoy the rides and attractions, taking breaks as needed. Participate in games and activities, and remember to capture the fun moments with photos.

Visiting Zoo Activity

A visit to the zoo is a wonderful way for children to learn about different animals , their habitats, and the importance of wildlife conservation. This activity is educational, engaging, and a great family outing.

Materials: Comfortable walking shoes and a water bottle, along with a camera or smartphone for capturing memories.

• Plan your visit to the zoo by checking the zoo’s website for hours of operation and any special exhibits or events. Ensure everyone wears comfortable walking shoes and brings snacks and a water bottle.
• Upon arrival, pick up a map of the zoo and plan your route to make the most of your visit. Identify key exhibits and areas of interest.
• As you walk through the zoo, encourage your child to observe the animals and read the information provided about each species. Discuss the animals’ natural habitats, diets, and behaviors.

Visiting Farm Activity

In this “Visiting Farm Activity,” children can experience the joys and lessons of farm life. This activity is both educational and fun, providing kids with a unique opportunity to learn about animals, plants, and the daily operations of a farm.

Materials: Comfortable outdoor clothing, a hat, sunscreen for sun protection, and a water bottle to stay hydrated.

• Dress your child in comfortable clothes and ensure they have a hat and sunscreen for sun protection. Bring a water bottle to keep them hydrated.
• Arrive at the farm and start by exploring different areas. Show your child the various animals, such as cows, chickens, and sheep.
• Participate in farm activities, such as feeding the animals or picking fruits and vegetables. Encourage your child to ask questions and learn about each activity.

Learning Music Instruments Activity

In this “Learning Music Instruments Activity,” children can explore the world of music by learning to play different instruments. It’s a great way for children to express themselves creatively.

Materials: Musical instruments such as the piano, violin, and guitar, along with music sheets or beginner lesson books.

• Set up a quiet space where your child can focus on learning and practicing their instrument.
• Provide them with a beginner’s music book or sheet music that matches their skill level.
• Begin with basic lessons, teaching them how to hold the instrument and produce sounds. Encourage them to practice regularly.

Cooking Activity

In this “ Cooking Activity ,” children can enjoy the process of preparing simple meals and snacks. This activity is not only fun but also teaches kids valuable life skills such as following instructions, measuring ingredients, and basic cooking techniques.

Materials: Basic cooking utensils like mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups, along with ingredients such as flour, eggs, and milk.

• Set up a clean and organized workspace in the kitchen. Make sure your child has all the necessary cooking utensils and ingredients.
• Choose a simple recipe that is appropriate for their age and skill level. Read through the recipe together to ensure they understand each step.
• Guide your child through the process of measuring and mixing ingredients. Allow them to take the lead while you provide supervision and assistance as needed.
• Once the dish is prepared, cook or bake it according to the recipe. Enjoy the finished product together and discuss what they learned during the activity.

Helping Mom Activity

In this “Helping Mom Activity,” children can learn the importance of teamwork and responsibility by assisting with household chores. This activity is both practical and engaging, teaching kids valuable life skills while fostering a sense of accomplishment and family bonding.

Materials: A laundry basket, clothesline, or drying rack, along with laundry detergent.

• Prepare laundry area with basket, detergent, and drying rack.
• Involve child in sorting laundry by color and fabric types.
• Teach them to measure and add detergent to washing machine.
• Supervise as they start the machine.
• Guide them in hanging clothes on rack or line.
• Explain proper hanging techniques for different clothes.

Feed the Fish Activity

In this “Feed the Fish Activity,” children can enjoy the experience of feeding fish in a pond or aquarium. This activity is both enjoyable and educational , helping kids learn about different types of fish and their feeding habits.

Materials: Fish food pellets and a small container. Ensure access to a pond or aquarium.

• Fill a small container with fish food pellets.
• Choose a safe pond or aquarium for feeding fish.
• Demonstrate sprinkling food into the water gently.
• Let your child take turns feeding, observing fish reactions.
• Encourage them to notice different fish types and behaviors.

Bowling Game

In this “Bowling Game” activity, children can enjoy a fun and exciting game of bowling. This activity is great for developing hand-eye coordination, social skills , and friendly competition.

Materials: A bowling ball, bowling pins, and a bowling lane.

• Visit a local bowling alley or set up a homemade bowling lane using plastic pins and a ball.
• Show your child how to hold and roll the bowling ball towards the pins. Make sure they understand the basic rules of the game.
• Let your child take turns rolling the ball and trying to knock down as many pins as possible. Keep score to add an element of friendly competition.

Laundry Activity

In this “Laundry Activity,” children can learn the basics of doing laundry, which is an essential life skill. This activity is practical and educational, helping kids understand the importance of cleanliness and organization.

Materials: A laundry basket and washing machine with dryer, along with laundry detergent.

• Set up laundry area with basket, detergent, and machine.
• Teach sorting by colors and fabrics, emphasizing prevention of bleeding and damage.
• Demonstrate measuring and adding detergent, then supervise loading and starting machine.
• Guide transferring clothes post-wash, explaining dryer settings and avoiding overloading.

Cupcake Decorating Activity

In this “Cupcake Decorating Activity,” children can unleash their creativity by decorating delicious cupcakes. This activity is fun and engaging, allowing kids to experiment with different toppings and designs.

Materials: Pre-baked cupcakes and frosting in different colors, along with assorted toppings such as sprinkles, chocolate chips, and fruit.

• Set up a clean and organized workspace with all the necessary materials, including pre-baked cupcakes, frosting, and assorted toppings.
• Give each child a cupcake and provide them with different colors of frosting. Show them how to spread the frosting evenly on the cupcake.
• Let the children choose from a variety of toppings to decorate their cupcakes. Encourage them to be creative and try different combinations.

Camping Activity

In this “Camping Activity,” children can experience the excitement and adventure of camping . This activity is perfect for teaching kids about nature , teamwork, and outdoor survival skills.

Materials: Tents, sleeping bags, flashlights, lanterns, and camping gear like cooking utensils and a first-aid kit.

• Choose a safe camping site, backyard, or campground.
• Set up the tent together.
• Pack essentials like sleeping bags, flashlights, cooking utensils, and a first-aid kit.
• Plan outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and nature scavenger hunts.
• Gather around a campfire for stories, marshmallows, and stargazing, following safety guidelines.

Nature Walk Activity

In this “ Nature Walk Activity ,” children can explore the outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature. This activity is ideal for teaching kids about the environment, different plants and animals, and the importance of spending time outside.

Materials: Comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and a nature guidebook.

• Choose a safe and scenic location for your nature walk, such as a local park, nature reserve, or hiking trail.
• Start your walk and encourage your child to observe their surroundings. Point out interesting plants, trees, and wildlife. Let them ask questions and explore at their own pace.
• Take breaks as needed, and use this time to discuss what you’ve seen and learned. Encourage your child to collect leaves, flowers, or rocks (if allowed) to take home and examine later.

Drama Class Activity

In this “Drama Class Activity,” children can explore their creativity and build confidence through acting and performance. This activity is perfect for teaching kids about self-expression, teamwork, and public speaking.

Materials: Costumes, props, scripts, or storybooks, all set against the backdrop of a stage area or open space.

• Set up a stage area or open space where the children can perform. Gather a variety of costumes and props to inspire their creativity.
• Choose a simple script or story that the children can act out. Assign roles to each child and provide them with their lines.
• Encourage the children to practice their parts, helping them with pronunciation and expression. Guide them through the movements and actions needed for their roles.
• Once they are ready, let the children perform the play for an audience, such as family members or friends. Applaud their efforts and provide positive feedback.

Birthday Party Decoration Activity

In this “Birthday Party Decoration Activity,” children can have fun helping to set up and decorate for a birthday party. This activity is great for fostering creativity and teamwork, as kids can contribute to making the celebration special.

Materials: Balloons, streamers, banners, signs, tape, scissors, and string.

• Gather all the necessary decorations, including balloons, streamers, banners, and signs. Make sure you have tape, scissors, and string for hanging the decorations.
• Assign different tasks to each child, such as blowing up balloons, hanging streamers, or arranging the banner. Show them how to safely use scissors and tape.
• Encourage the children to be creative in their decorating. Let them choose where to place the decorations and how to arrange them to make the space festive.

Boating Activity

In this “Boating Activity,” children can enjoy an adventurous and educational experience on the water. This activity is perfect for teaching kids about boating safety, navigation, and the beauty of nature from a different perspective.

Materials: life jackets and safety gear, along with a boat.

• Make sure everyone wears a properly fitting life jacket before getting on the boat. Safety should always be the top priority.
• Choose a calm and safe location for boating, such as a lake or a slow-moving river. Ensure the boat is equipped with all necessary safety gear, including a first-aid kit and a whistle.
• Teach your child basic boating skills, such as paddling or steering the boat. Explain important safety rules, like staying seated while the boat is moving and not leaning over the edge.

Horse Riding Activity

In this “Horse Riding Activity,” children can experience the thrill of riding a horse while learning about animal care and responsibility. This activity is ideal for developing balance, coordination, and confidence.

Materials: Riding helmet, horse with proper gear, and riding boots for safety.

• Make sure your child wears a riding helmet and appropriate safety gear, such as riding boots, before getting on the horse.
• Choose a safe and supervised location for horse riding, such as a riding school or stable with trained instructors. Ensure the horse is well-trained and calm.
• Teach your child basic horse riding skills, such as mounting the horse, holding the reins, and maintaining balance. The instructor will guide them through these steps.

Join a Charity Event

In this “Join a Charity Event” activity, children can learn the importance of helping others and giving back to the community. This activity is perfect for teaching kids about empathy , teamwork, and social responsibility.

Materials: Canned goods, clothing, and toys are collected using designated boxes or bins, accompanied by informational material about the charity event.

• Find a local charity event for kids, such as a food drive or community cleanup. Get event details.
• Involve your child in selecting items to donate, like canned goods or toys, and explain their importance.
• Pack donated items into labeled boxes or bins.
• Attend the event together. Let your child assist in collecting donations, sorting items, and interacting with volunteers to learn about the charity’s mission.

Shoes Painting Activity

In this “Shoes Painting Activity,” children can express their creativity by designing and painting their own shoes. This activity is fun and allows kids to personalize their footwear, making it unique and special.

Materials: White canvas shoes are painted using fabric or acrylic paints and paintbrushes.

• Set up a clean and organized workspace. Ensure the shoes are clean and dry before starting. Gather all the necessary materials, including fabric or acrylic paints and various paintbrushes.
• Encourage your child to plan their design. They can sketch it on paper first or draw lightly on the shoes with a pencil to guide their painting.
• Let your child start painting their shoes. Use different brushes and sponges to create various effects. Remind them to let each color dry before applying another to avoid smudging.

Activities for 10-year-olds should be fun and diverse to match their growing interests and independence. Try puzzles and board games to boost their thinking skills, while outdoor sports keep them active and teach teamwork.

Encourage creativity with writing, drawing, or learning music. Let them explore both structured activities and free play for a well-rounded experience.

I’m a former teacher (and mother of Two Childs) with a background in child development. Here to help you with play-based learning activities for kids. ( Check my  Next startup  Cledemy.Com )

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15 Problem-Solving Activities for Kids & Teens: Critical Thinking

What is one of the most important skills all students must learn? Is it math or coding? Reading? Writing? While all these skills are indeed vital to success, the one skill that underlines all disciplines is problem solving. All lines of work need great problem solvers to find tomorrow’s solutions, and students of any age can be honing their problem-solving skills. Check out some of these fun problem-solving activities for kids and teens below!

Problem-solving activities for elementary school kids (ages 5-10)

From traditional paper-and-pencil activities to online tools, below are some great activities for kids ages 5-10.

1. Coding Courses for Kids

It’s never too early to start learning the foundational concepts of computer programming! There are a number of courses appropriate for young students to start building their problem solving skills, including the award-winning Scratch Ninja course . For the uninitiated, Scratch is a user-friendly colorful drag-and-drop coding tool developed by MIT for making awesome games and animations while learning important coding logic. Or, for students who are visual learners, try a Minecraft Redstone Engineering course to find out how to build awesome inventions! There are many free coding classes to start with, to find your child's interests.

2. Tower Building

Turns out that kindergartners might be better engineers than grownups (at least according to this experiment)! The challenge was as follows: given 20 pieces of spaghetti, a yard of tape, and a yard of string, build the tallest possible tower that can support 1 marshmallow on top. After various groups of people tried it from Stanford and other universities, kindergartners ended up beating them for creating the tallest tower. Challenge your student to see how tall they can make their tower too!

3. Crosswords

Whether taken out of the newspaper or off of the web, crosswords are a useful logic puzzle for kids to work on. Crosswords encourage students to use context clues, as well as their reasoning skills by eliminating possible options as they progress. Plus, it’s easy to vary the difficulty of the puzzles, as well as find fun, themed crosswords for different holidays! There's even a Thanksgiving crossword for your student to try.

4. Jigsaw Puzzles

There’s nothing like a good, ole’ fashioned puzzle to challenge the mind. Each person takes a different approach to puzzle solving, whether they organize their pieces first, find all the corners, or do something totally different. Exploring different strategies for solving puzzles is an effective introduction to independently creating strategies for problem solving. This is a solid choice for students who are visual learners.

An age-old classic, LEGOs are a fantastic way to combine creative skills with problem solving. Students need to follow sequential steps and visualize to create their LEGO designs. It’s even better when students go beyond the kit instructions to create their own LEGO build, as students will have to learn to utilize limited resources while coming up with a structured plan for designing their idea. LEGO Mindstorms is a popular starting point.

Problem-solving activities for middle school tweens (ages 11-13)

Middle schoolers (ages 11-13) will want to be challenged more with their activities, and these are some effective activities for encouraging growth.

6. Middle School Coding Courses

By the time they reach middle school, students will be ready to take on more advanced coding concepts, regardless of their prior coding experience. For those who have no prior coding experience, the Accelerated Scratch course is an excellent option, as it will introduce students to basic coding concepts while allowing them to make their games and animations. Students with some prior coding experience may want to try the Minecraft Code to Mod course, builds upon basic coding concepts like loops, conditionals, and more while building students' creativity and critical thinking.

7. Birthday Ordering

An activity commonly done at summer camps, the silent birthday lineup is an excellent problem-solving activity for groups. The goal is for students to line up in chronological order based on their birthdays, without talking at all. Working in total science requires students to think outside the box to accomplish their goal, and to prioritize teamwork. Try timing the students to see how quickly they can get it done, then let them reflect on the activity afterwards to see what strategies worked and what didn’t.

8. Event Planning

Have students plan their own event, like a fundraiser, a social, or a competition for their coding club . This will require students to collaborate by delegating tasks, coordinating supplies, budgeting, and more. Even planning something as simple as a pizza party still requires some logistical planning, and students will benefit from struggling through the process. Plus, they can get to enjoy the results of their work when the event finally arrives!

Arduino circuit boards are an excellent choice for children interested in engineering. Because Arduino is widely-popular, there are countless tutorials demonstrating its capabilities, such as creating a controller, custom RGB lighting, robotics, or more. Once students learn the basics, they can use Arduino boards to come up with creative solutions to their own problems. This is an excellent idea for highly-motivated kids who like to work by themselves.

Sudoku is an excellent number puzzle and a great problem-solving exercise. It requires students to evaluate multiple possible options as they try to fill in the puzzles, so students need to be able to create an organized approach to be successful. There are various difficulty levels for sudoku, so students can start easy, then advance as they become proficient at solving the puzzles.

Problem-solving activities for high school teens (ages 14+)

High school (14+) is a good time to incorporate group work into the activities, as students will need to learn to work collaboratively for their future in college and beyond.

11. Coding for Teens

Once reaching high school age, students are ready to tackle the complexities of text-based coding. This is where students can focus on their interests, whether it be web design , AI, app design , and more. Create & Learn’s Python for AI course is a good option, as Python is one of the most widely-used programming languages in the world. Students interested in game design might try the Roblox Studio course , which teaches students how to program their own Roblox games (or try the Beginner Roblox Game Coding course if they have limited previous coding experience.)

12. Robotics Club

Many different school programs offer robotics teams and robotics competitions , using tools such as VEX robotics . Robotics is a great way to combine computer science, mechanical engineering, and problem-solving skills. If there is no robotics team at your student’s school, consider trying a robotics kit such as the Makeblock mBot Ranger .

13. Egg Drop

This classic experiment is a lot of fun for students, and makes for a good competition as well. Students must build some sort of structure that will prevent an egg from breaking when dropped from a certain height (like the top of a staircase). It works best when students are restricted with the resources they can use; for instance, define a “ budget ” for parts that they can’t exceed, or give everyone the same materials to work with .

14. Debate Club

Whether deciding public policy or the best ice cream place in town, having the ability to engage in meaningful debate is critical. Debate forces students to self-analyze, listen, and think critically before making decisions. These skills benefit students’ futures by making them strong, independent thinkers. Check out these speech and debate competitions . And here are some tips for starting a debate club .

15. Science Fair

Science fairs pose an excellent opportunity for exploring the scientific method, both through creating personal projects and checking out other students’ presentations. By encouraging students to come up with their own projects, they must identify some question or problem and find a way to solve it. This can be the most challenging kind of problem-solving, as it requires the student to take initiative in finding their own ideas, but also can be the most rewarding. Try the Google Science Fair Competition .

Enjoy problem-solving activities for kids

And there you have it: problem-solving activities for students from elementary through high school age. Of course, there are many more ways to build critical-thinking abilities like problem-solving. For more ideas, check this list of awesome after-school enrichment activities !

Written by Create & Learn instructor Dominic Occhietti. Dominic is a graduate of Michigan State University, where he studied music performance and computer science. He thoroughly enjoys teaching, whether that be coding classes, French horn lessons, or even downhill skiing lessons!

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45 Fun and Clever Brain Teasers for Kids with Answers!

Written by Laney Kennedy

Reviewed by Sarah Tino, M.Ed.

Engage and motivate your students with our adaptive, game-based learning platform!

• Game-Based Learning
• What brain teasers are
• The benefits of brain teasers for kids

Math brain teasers for kids

Sometimes keeping your students engaged during a (long) school day feels like a losing battle. How do you gain their full attention while teaching the skills they need to succeed? How do you turn tough and intimidating concepts into fun, entertaining lessons that actually spark life in the classroom? 

Brain teasers for kids are a great form of game-based learning that not only entertain children but also inspire some creative thought in the classroom. People of all ages can indulge in these playful — yet challenging — activities.

And some examples of when teachers might want to use brain teasers are on a bulletin board in the classroom, as a partnered activity to start a new concept or lesson, or during a rainy day indoor recess box.

We’ve gathered 45 examples of brain teasers for kids with answers, organized by category:

Table of Contents

Language brain teasers for kids :

Riddles ; Language associations ; Lateral thinking problems.

Math brain teasers for kids :

Math riddles ;  Pattern problems ;  Prodigy.

Visual brain teasers for kids :

Spot the difference ;  Rebus puzzles ;  Optical illusions ;  Stroop effect test.

Use the list below to find the perfect brain teaser for your class!

What are brain teasers?

Before you explore our examples, you might be wondering what brain teasers actually are.

Cambridge Dictionary defines a brain teaser as “a problem for which it is hard to find the answer, especially one which people enjoy trying to solve as a game.”

Brain teasers are a type of puzzle — and as the list below reveals, they come in many different forms. Often presented as a riddle, question or activity, brain teasers require a little extra brainpower to solve.

It's important to note that if you have any English language learners in your class, brain teasers for kids might pose a challenge for them. If that's the case, they might need you to walk them through the brain teaser more closely, or you can find ones that better suit their language level.

Brain teasers for kids differ from other complex or abstract problems because they’re usually done for fun. Although you can use them to analyze problem-solving and critical thinking skills, they’re often used as an amusing activity to encourage logical and lateral thinking , or thinking “outside the box.”

45 Brain teasers for kids

We’ve compiled a list of language, math and visual brain teasers to get your students thinking. Get inspired by the examples below — including answers!

Language brain teasers for kids

When you hear the term “brain teaser,” a riddle is likely the first thing that comes to mind. Riddles are perplexing — sometimes misleading — questions or statements that require creative thought to solve.

Riddles are usually fun, and plenty of them can add some humour to your classroom.

Enjoy our list of riddles for kids below!

a) Billy’s mother had five children. The first was named Lala, the second was named Lele, the third was named Lili, the fourth was named Lolo. What was the fifth child named?

b) Choose the correct sentence: “The yolk of the egg is white” or “the yolk of the egg is white.”

c) It’s as light as a feather, but the strongest person can’t hold it for more than five minutes. What is it?

d) The more there is, the less you see. What is it?

e) What gets more wet while it dries?

f) You can find it in Mercury, Earth, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn, but not in Venus or Neptune. What is it?

g) It likes food, but water kills it. What is it?

h) What’s full of holes but can still hold water?

i) Which is heavier, a pound of feathers or a pound of rocks?

j) How far can a dog run into the woods?

k) You’re driving a city bus. At the first stop, three women get on. At the second stop, one woman gets off and a man gets on. At the third stop, two children get on. The bus is blue and it’s raining outside in December. What colour is the bus driver’s hair?

l) There are three houses. One is red, one is blue and one is white. If the red house is to the left of the house in the middle, and the blue house is to the right of the house in the middle, where’s the white house?

m) It’s at the center of gravity and you can find it in Venus, but not Mars. What is it?

n) What goes on four feet in the morning, two in the afternoon and three in the evening?  (This is from the classic myth,  Oedipus and the Riddle of the Sphinx )

o) What travels faster: heat or cold?

p) A man was walking in the rain in the middle of nowhere without a coat or an umbrella. He got soaked, but not a single hair on his head was wet. How can this be?

q) A cowboy rode into town on Friday. He stayed in town for three days and rode back out on Friday. How is this possible?

b) Neither. Egg yolks are yellow, not white!

f) The letter “R”

h) A sponge

i) Neither. Both weigh a pound!

j) Halfway. Once it reaches halfway, it’s running  out  of the woods.

k) Whatever colour your hair is. Remember, you’re driving the bus!

l) In Washington, D.C.

m) The letter “V”

n) A human. The times of day represent stages of human life. At the beginning of life, a baby crawls on four “feet.” As a person gets older, they walk on two feet. Later in life, a person will walk on three “feet” (two feet, plus a cane to help them walk).

o) Heat travels faster because you can catch a cold!

p) He was bald.

q) The horse’s name was Friday.

As a bonus, use these riddles to challenge preconceived notions and get students thinking about natural bias .

a) Two boxers are in a match scheduled for 12 rounds. (Pure boxing only - no kicking, UFC takedowns, or anything else). One of the boxers gets knocked out after only six rounds, yet no man throws a punch. How is this possible?

b) A father and son have a car accident and both are very injured. They are taken to separate hospitals for treatment. When the boy is taken in for an operation, the surgeon says, “I can’t do this surgery…. this boy is my son!” How is this possible?

a) The two boxers are women.

b) The surgeon is the boy’s mother.

2. Language associations

These brain teasers for kids explore the complexities of the English language. Use them to boost student knowledge of sounds, words, spelling, categorization and more.a)  Word association : find a word that associates with the following sets of words.

• Cake, swiss, cottage
• Glasses, screen, day
• Cream, cube, cap
• Knife, fly, cup

b) Find the mystery word . Replace the third letter of each word with a new letter to create a different word. When read vertically, the new letters will reveal the mystery word.

For example, the word MA K E could become MA R E, MA L E, MA T E and so on. It’s your job to figure out which one works to create the mystery word. 

Hint: It’s something you’ll find outside.

c) Find rhyming pairs . Unscramble the words below so that each pair of words rhymes.

• RBAE & HREAS
• WNROED & UTRHNDE
• TUGHAT & HBTUGO
• ODULC & ODOG

Mystery word: FLOWER

• BEAR (or BARE) & SHARE
• WONDER & THUNDER
• TAUGHT & BOUGHT
• COULD & GOOD

You can also use printable brain teasers for kids like this one:

Image source: Spelling Words Well

Answer: The “happy word” is SMILE.

3. Lateral thinking problems

Lateral thinking problems require creative thinking with an indirect approach.

These questions require logic and careful thought to solve. The most notable example of a lateral thinking problem is the classic Monty Hall problem .

Here are two examples of lateral thinking problems kids can try to solve.

a) The river crossing problem

Image source: Popular Mechanics

A farmer is travelling with a fox, a goose, and a bag of beans. During his journey, he comes across a river with a boat to cross it.

The farmer can only fit one thing in the boat with him at a time. If left alone together, the fox will eat the goose or the goose will eat the beans. How does the farmer get everything across the river safely?

b) The light bulb problem

There are three light switches outside of a room-- labeled number one, number two, and number three. The door to the room is closed and you can’t see in. All three switches are off.

You need to figure out which switch belongs to which bulb. You can use the switches however you want to, but can only enter the room once. How do you do it?

a) Here’s the step-by-step solution:

• The farmer brings the goose across the river first (if he leaves the goose alone, it will either eat the beans or be eaten by the fox).
• The farmer brings either the fox or the beans across and leaves the other one alone.
• Now the farmer has two items on the other side of the river, including the goose. If he leaves the goose again, the same problem will occur. So, the farmer must bring the goose back to the other side.
• The farmer brings the other item back (either the fox or the beans) and leaves the goose alone again. The fox and the beans are now on the other side of the river.
• The farmer returns and brings the goose across the river again.

b) Turn on the first switch and leave it on. Turn on the second switch for a few minutes, and then turn it off again. When you enter the room, one light bulb will be on. You’ll know it goes with switch one because you turned it on. Another bulb will be hot. You’ll know that goes with switch two because it was on for a little while. The bulb that’s off and cold goes with switch three because you didn’t touch it.

Like math puzzles , these brain teasers for kids can increase engagement with math content and inspire your students to work on math concepts and problems outside of regular lessons.

1. Math riddles

These riddles are just as amusing as the ones above, but they’re math-focused . Use them to give students some extra math practice and encourage resourceful thinking.

Math riddles

a) Divide 30 by ½ and add 10. What’s the answer?

b) A clerk at the butcher shop is six feet tall and wears size 10 shoes. What does he weigh?

c) A farmer has 19 sheep on his land. One day, a big storm hits and all but seven run away. How many sheep does the farmer have left?

d) Your sock drawer only contains 18 white socks and 18 blue socks. How many times do you need to reach inside the drawer and take out a sock to guarantee a matching pair?

e) You planted sunflower seeds in your back garden. Every day, the number of flowers doubles. If it takes 52 days for the flowers to fill the garden, how many days would it take for them to fill half the garden?

f) Using only addition, how can you use eight eights to get the number 1,000?

g) When Ashley was 15, her mother was 37. Now, her mother is twice her age. How old is Ashley?

a) It's 70. You’re dividing 30 by ½, not by two. Thirty divided by ½ is the same thing as multiplying it by two, which is 60. Plus 10 makes 70!

b) Meat. He works at the butcher shop, so he weighs meat for a living.

c) Seven. The riddle says  all but seven  run away, meaning there are seven left who didn’t.

d) Three times. On the third time, you’ll get either a white or a blue sock to match with one of the other two you’ve already grabbed.

e) It would take 51 days. If the number of flowers doubles every day, half the garden would be full the day before, on the 51st day.

f) 888 +88 +8 +8 +8

g) Ashley is 22. Her mother is 22 years older, so when Ashley is 22, she’s now half her mother’s age.

2. Pattern problems

These questions require students to identify a pattern before they can answer a particular question. Kids must use creative and logical thinking to find the answers.

4 + 4 = 168

5 + 5 = 2510.

b) What makes this number unique: 8,549,176,320?

c) Solve the pattern puzzle below. Find the missing number to replace the question mark.

Image source: Genius Puzzles

d) Solve the following:

Image source: AOL

a) The missing number is 3612. The answer is the number multiplied by itself and then the number added to itself. Six multiplied by six is 36, and six plus six is 12.

b) It contains each one-digit number, zero through nine, listed in alphabetical order.

c) The missing number is 17. Each number in the circle is the sum of the numbers in the opposite quadrant. In this case, the numbers are eight and nine — added together makes 17.

d) The answer is 14 (or 16), if you’re on the other side of the debate .

3. Prodigy Math Game

This math activity is a bit different from others on the list. It’s not a traditional brain teaser, but it can also be used as a fun, skill-building alternative to traditional math class.

Prodigy is a game-based learning platform that takes your students on an online fantasy adventure while they answer standards-aligned math questions. It’s engaging and effective at teaching necessary skills. 

Prodigy's free teacher tools help you differentiate learning, send assessments in-game and even collect student insights!

Visual brain teasers for kids

1. spot the difference.

This ever-popular activity might remind you of your own childhood — and kids still love it! Spot the difference puzzles require lots of deduction and attention to detail.

Here’s an example of a printable spot the difference activity.

Image source: Tim’s Printables

2. Rebus puzzles

A rebus is a visual word puzzle that uses lateral thinking to find its intended meaning. The word or phrase is depicted with a visual illustration, including letters and words. Students must think creatively to figure out the meaning from the clues they’re given. 

Image source: Wikipedia

Image source: Stack Exchange

a) Top secret

b) Think outside the box

Visit the link below if you want more fun rebus puzzles for your students:

3. Optical illusions

Get tricky with your students! Optical illusions use visual tricks that alter the perception of what you’re really seeing. Students will love trying to figure out what’s really going on in these examples.

a) How many legs does the elephant have?

Image source: Optics For Kids

b) Are the two squares different colours?

Image source: Brain Den

b) They’re exactly the same colour. If you place your finger over the spot where the squares meet, you can see they’re the same. Try this impossible paper puzzle if you want a more hands-on optical illusion. You can make one to show your class, then have students make their own as a fun brain teaser to show friends and family.

4. Stroop effect test

The Stroop effect was discovered in the 1930s by John Ridley Stroop. During the test, you’re given a list of colour names, with each word being a different colour than what they describe.

The test involves saying the colour of a word, rather than reading the word itself. Your mind must process the two conflicting pieces of information, which slows down reaction speed and requires careful thought to get through.

Image source: The Crafty Classroom

Benefits of brain teasers for kids

You know your students enjoy them, but did you know there are plenty of additional reasons to make brain teasers a regular activity in the classroom?

A study on the attention spans of six-year-olds found children who were given brain teasers were more attentive than those who were not — showing brain teasers were effective at boosting children’s attention spans.   

Brain teasers for kids can also:

• Strengthen problem solving and critical thinking skills
• Encourage lateral thinking and build new perspectives
• Improve cognitive abilities like memory and processing speed
• Inspire teamwork and communication
• Engage students and motivate them to learn
• Provide necessary breaks from traditional class work

How to use brain teasers in the classroom

In addition to their many learning advantages, brain teasers are a great way to break up the day and engage your students. Here are just a few ways you can use brain teasers for kids as a teaching strategy and maximize the benefits in your classroom:

• Engagement-boosting activity before or after lessons
• Bonus questions in assignments and tests
• Optional “free time” activity
• Encourage team building — split students into groups to solve them together
• Supplement lessons — choose brain teasers about the subject you’re teaching

Final thoughts on brain teasers for kids

No matter what subject or skill you want to focus on, a brain teaser is a great addition to traditional teaching methods. Plus, it’s something students will actually be excited to do.

Remember that brain teaser are designed to be fun for kids. it’s not about finding the right answer, but the mental exercise they get from trying to find the solution.

Use any of the brain teasers in this list whenever you need a boost of energy in your classroom. Bonus points if you can stump any adults!

Create or log in to your free teacher account on Prodigy – a game-based learning platform for math that’s easy to use for educators and students alike. Aligned with standards across the English-speaking world, it’s used by more than a million teachers and 90 million students.

10 Simple Activities to Teach Your Preschooler Problem Solving

By: Author Tanja McIlroy

Posted on Last updated: 5 June 2024

Categories Activities for Preschoolers & Kindergarteners

During the first years of a child’s life, an important set of cognitive skills known as problem-solving abilities are developed. These skills are used throughout childhood and into adulthood.

Find out what problem solving is, why it’s important and how you can develop these skills with 10 problem-solving games and activities.

What is Problem Solving in Early Childhood?

So, what exactly is problem solving? Quite simply, it refers to the process of finding a solution to a problem .

A person uses their own knowledge and experience, as well as the information at hand to try and reach a solution. Problem solving is therefore about the thought processes involved in finding a solution.

This could be as complex as an adult working out how to get out of a financial crisis or as simple as a child working out how two blocks fit together.

Problem Solving Skills for Kids

Problem-solving skills refer to the specific thinking skills a person uses when faced with a challenge. Some problems require the use of many skills, while others are simple and may only require one or two skills.

These are some examples of problem-solving skills for preschoolers , as listed by kent.ac.uk .

• Lateral thinking
• Analytical thinking
• Decision-making skills
• Logical reasoning
• Persistence
• Communication skills
• Negotiation skills

The Importance of Developing Problem-Solving Skills in Early Childhood

Problem solving is a skill that would be difficult to suddenly develop as an adult. While you can still improve a skill at any age, the majority of learning occurs during the early years.

Preschool is the best time for a child to learn to problem solve in a fun way. The benefits of learning early will last a lifetime and the beauty of learning anything at a young age is that it is effortless .

It is like learning to play an instrument or picking up a new language – it’s just much easier and more natural at an early age.

Of all the many things preschoolers need to learn , what makes problem solving so important?

There aren’t many situations in life, at work or at school that don’t require some level of problem resolution.

Child’s play itself is filled with opportunity upon opportunity to solve all kinds of tricky situations and come up with solutions to challenges.

Problem Solving in Preschool

During the foundational years, children are constantly solving problems as they play .

Here are just a few examples of problem solving in early childhood :

• Resolving a fight over the same toy
• Reaching a ball that’s stuck in the tree
• Forming a circle while holding hands
• Making a bridge to connect two block towers
• Tying or untying a shoe
• Making up rules for a new game
• Trying to get the consistency of a mud cake right so it stops falling over

The more creative play opportunities and challenges children are given, the more they get to exercise their problem-solving muscles.

During free play , there are non-stop experiences for this, and parents and teachers can also encourage specific problem-solving skills through guided activities .

Problem Solving for Older Children

During the grades, children experience problems in many forms, some of which may be related to their academic, social and emotional well-being at school. Problems may come in the form of dealing with life issues, such as:

• Problems with friendships
• Struggling to understand something during a lesson
• Learning to balance the demands of sport and homework
• Finding the best way to study for a test
• Asking a teacher for help when needed

Problems will also form a large part of academic life as teachers will be actively developing this skill through various activities, for example:

• Solving a riddle or understanding a work of literature
• Working on projects with a friend
• Finding solutions during science experiments
• Solving mathematical problems
• Solving hypothetical problems during lessons
• Answering questions and completing exam papers

Children who have had practice during preschool will be a lot more capable when facing these challenges.

Solving Problems in Mathematics

Mathematics needs to be mentioned separately as although it is part of schooling, it is such a huge part and it depends heavily on a child’s ability to solve problems.

The entire subject of mathematics is based on solving problems. Whether you are adding 2 and 3, working out how many eggs will fit into each basket, or solving an algebraic expression, there is a problem in every question.

Mathematics is just a series of problems that need to be solved.

What we refer to as problem solving in Maths is usually answering word problems .

The reason many children find these so difficult to answer is that the question is presented as a problem through a story, rather than just numbers with symbols telling you what operation to use (addition, division, etc.)

This means a child is forced to think carefully, understand the problem and determine the best way to solve it.

These problems can involve various units (e.g. mass, capacity or currency) as well as fractions, decimals, equations and angles, to name a few. Problems tend to become more and more complex over the years.

My experience in the classroom has shown that many, many children struggle with solving word problems, from the early grades right into the senior years.

They struggle to analyze the question, understand it, determine what information they’ve been given, and what exactly they are required to solve.

The good news is that exposing a child to regular problem-solving activities and games in preschool can greatly help him to solve word problems later on in school.

If you need one good reason to do these kinds of activities, let it be for a smoother experience in mathematics – a subject so many children unnecessarily fear.

Problem Solving in the Workplace

Adults in the workplace seldom thrive without problem-solving skills. They are required to regularly solve problems .

As adults, employees are expected to independently deal with the frequent challenges, setbacks and problems that are a big part of every working environment.

Those who can face and solve their own problems will go further and cope better than those who seek constant help from others or cannot show initiative.

Some  career websites even refer to problem solving as a universal job skill. They also mention that many employees are not good at it. 

Again, although it may seem far removed, learning this skill at a young age will help a child cope right into adulthood and in the working world.

How to Teach Children Problem-Solving Skills

If early childhood is the best time to grow these skills in your young children, then how does one go about teaching them to toddlers, preschoolers and kindergarteners?

Problem solving can be taught in such a way that you expose your child to various opportunities where they will be faced with challenges.

You would not necessarily sit your 3-year-old down and tell or “teach” him all about fixing problems. Instead, you want to create opportunities for your child to grow this skill .

Using the brain to think and find solutions is a bit like working a muscle over time. Eventually, your muscle gets stronger and can handle more “ weight. ” Your child will learn to problem solve in two ways:

• Incidentally – through free play
• Through guided opportunities provided by a parent or teacher

If you make a point of encouraging thinking through games and activities, your child will develop stronger skills than if you let it all happen incidentally.

Problem-Solving Strategies and Steps

If we take a look at the steps involved in solving a problem, we can see that there are many layers involved and different types of skills. Here are the problem-solving steps according to the University of Ken. 

Step 1: Identify the problem

Step 2: Define the problem

Step 3: Examine the options

Step 4: Act on a plan

Step 5: Look at the consequences

Therefore, activities at a preschool level need not present complicated high-level problems.

• A simple activity such as identifying differences in a picture can work on the first skill needed – identifying a problem.
• Playing with construction toys can develop a child’s ability to try various solutions and examine the options when faced with a problem such as trying to find the best way to build something.
• Playing Tic-Tac-Toe would make a child predict the consequences of placing their mark in a particular square.

The most basic of activities can work on all these skills and make children competent solution finders.

How to Teach Problem Solving with Questions

The language you use around your child and your questioning technique will also greatly affect their understanding of a problem or challenge as merely something waiting for a solution to be found .

While your child is playing or when she comes to you with a problem, ask open-ended questions that will guide her in finding a potential answer independently. Use the steps listed above to formulate your questions.

Here are some examples of questions:

• What do you think made the tower of blocks fall down?
• If we build it again, how can we change the structure so that it won’t fall down next time?
• Is there a better way we can do it? If you think of a different way, we can both try it and see which works better.
• Did that work? The tower fell again so let’s try another solution.

Resist the temptation to fix every one of your child’s problems, including conflict with friends or siblings. These are important opportunities for children to learn how to resolve things by negotiating, thinking and reasoning.

With time, your child will get used to seeing a problem, understanding it, weighing up the options, taking action and evaluating the consequences.

Problems will be seen as challenges to be faced logically and not “problems.”

10 Problem-Solving Activities for Preschoolers

Here are 10 simple, easy games and problem solving activities for kids at home or at school. Many of them are the kinds of activities children should have daily exposure to.

Puzzles are one of the best thinking activities out there. Each puzzle is basically one big set of muddled-up things to be sorted out and put back together again. Find out why puzzles are important for development .

Children should have regular exposure to puzzles. They are great for developing thinking skills.

The best types to choose are sturdy, wooden puzzles with a board. They last longer and the frame provides a structure to guide children when building.

2. Memory games

Memory games will develop your child’s memory and attention to detail.

Use pairs of matching pictures and turn them all face down, shuffled, on a table. Take turns choosing any two cards and turning them face up on the table. If you turn over a matching pair you keep the cards and if the pair doesn’t match, turn the cards back over until it is your turn to try again.

Encourage your child to concentrate and pay attention to where the pictures are and try to find a matching pair on each turn. 

(Get your own set of printable memory card games here!)

3. Building with Construction Toys

Construction toys such as engineering blocks, a proper set of wooden blocks or Legos (shown below) should be a daily staple in your home.

Everything your child builds is a challenge because it requires thinking about what to build and how to put the pieces together to get a design that works and is functional.

Leave your child to construct freely and occasionally set a challenge and ask him to build a specific structure, with conditions. For example:

• Make two towers with a bridge joining them together
• Build a creature that stands on its own and has 3 arms.

Then watch your child wracking his brain until he finds a way to make his structure work.

4.  Activity Books

These activity books are really fun and develop a child’s ability to identify problems and search for information.

5. Following Patterns

This simple activity can be played with a set of coloured blocks, shapes or counters.

Simply make a pattern with the blocks and ask your child to continue it. Vary the pattern by changing the colours, shapes or sizes.

This activity will train your child to analyse the given information, make sense of it, recognise the pattern and re-create it.

6. Story Time Questions

Get into the habit of asking questions during your daily story time that develop higher-order thinking skills . Instead of just reading and your child passively listening, ask questions throughout, concentrating on solving problems.

Here are some examples:

• Why do you think the bear did that?
• Do you think his friend will be happy? Why?
• What would you do if you were the monkey?
• How do you think Peter can make things better with his friend?
• If the crocodile had decided not to eat the rabbit, how could the story have ended?

7. Board Games

Board games are an excellent way to develop problem-solving skills.

Start off with simple games like Ludo and Snakes and Ladders to teach the skill of following rules and moving in a logical sequence.

Card games like Go Fish are also great for teaching young children to think ahead and solve problems.

8.  Tic-Tac-Toe

This is a perfect game to teach decision-making skills , thinking before acting and weighing up the possible consequences.

Use a Tic Tac Toe Board or d raw a simple table like the one above on paper or a chalkboard.

Take turns to add a nought or a cross to the table and see who can make a row of three first.

Your child will probably catch on in no time and start thinking carefully before placing their symbol. This game can also be played with coloured counters or different objects.

9. Classifying and Grouping Activities

This activity can be done with a tin of buttons or beads or even by unpacking the dishwasher. The idea is to teach the skill of classifying and categorizing information by learning with physical objects. Here are some other ideas for categorizing:

• Separate the washing – mom’s clothes, dad’s clothes, etc; or socks, tops, shorts, etc.
• Empty out the cutlery drawer for cleaning, mix all the utensils up and then sort into knives, tablespoons, teaspoons, etc.
• Classify and sort out the toys in your child’s bedroom together – all books, construction toys, soft toys, etc.
• Play category games .

Here are more button activities for kids .

10. Building a Maze

This activity is lots of fun and suitable for any age. It is also going to be way more fun than doing a maze in an activity book, especially for younger children.

Draw a big maze on the paving with sidewalk chalk . Make passages, including one or two that end in a dead-end. Teach your kids to find their way out .

As your child gets better at figuring out a route and finding the way out, make the maze more complex and add more dead-end passages.

Are you a preschool teacher or working in Early Childhood Education? Would you like to receive regular emails with useful tips and play-based activity ideas to try with your children? Sign up for the newsletter!

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Friday 3rd of June 2022

hi maam , This Is Uma from India,Can i get this in pdf format or a book. Thank You

Tanja Mcilroy

Monday 6th of June 2022

Hi Uma, thanks for your message. These articles are not available in PDF, but you are welcome to copy and paste them from the website, as long as you add the reference: https://empoweredparents.co/problem-solving-activities-preschoolers/ Thanks for reading!

Wednesday 20th of May 2020

Very very useful content. Good work. Thank you.

Friday 22nd of May 2020

Thanks Ann.

Tuesday 19th of May 2020

Would like to download the free activity pack please.

Hi Kelly, Please download the activity pack on this page: www.empoweredparents.co

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30 Fun Activities For Busy 10-Year-Olds

• Elementary Education

Engaging in activities with your children can be quite exciting, and this article aims to provide you with a list of 30 fun activities to keep your busy 10-year-olds entertained. These activities are perfect for helping them develop essential skills, stay active, and create lasting memories.

1. Cooking Together: Teach your child how to prepare simple dishes and encourage them to help out in the kitchen.

2. Painting: Let your child’s creativity flow through painting on canvas, paper, or even rocks.

3. Origami: Learn the art of paper folding together and create beautiful designs.

4. Crafting: Provide supplies for your child to make their own crafts, such as jewelry or decorations.

5. Gardening: Teach them about planting seeds, watering plants, and harvesting vegetables.

6. Reading Club: Start a reading club with friends or family members and discuss your favorite books.

7. Board Games Night: Set aside an evening for playing classic board games like Monopoly or Scrabble.

8. Scavenger Hunt: Organize a scavenger hunt outdoors with clues hidden around the neighborhood or park.

9. DIY Science Experiments: Conduct safe science experiments at home to satisfy their curiosity about the world around them.

10. Biking: Take bike rides together and explore your local area.

11. Hiking: Find nearby nature trails and spend time outdoors.

12. Sports Clinic/Classes: Encourage your child to join a sports clinic or class at a nearby facility or community center.

13. Dance Party: Turn on some music and have a fun family dance party in the living room.

14. Movie Night: Transform your living room into a movie theater with popcorn, blankets, and pillows watching all-time favorite movies.

15. Swimming Pool Fun: Spend an afternoon splashing around at the local swimming pool together.

16. Camping Trip: Plan a weekend getaway and camp out in a local or state park.

17. Visit Museums: Explore art, science, or history museums for a day of learning and discovery.

18. Puzzle Solving: Encourage your child to solve crosswords, Sudoku puzzles, or mind-challenging riddles.

19. Karaoke Night: Sing along with your favorite songs at home or at a karaoke place.

20. Volunteering: Teach them the importance of giving back by volunteering at a local charity or shelter.

21. DIY Jewelry: Create homemade bracelets, necklaces, or earrings using beads and various materials.

22. Storytime: Write stories together and take turns reading them out loud.

23. Family Fitness Challenge: Challenge each other to daily exercises and keep track of progress.

24. Photography Walk: Take a walk together, capturing photographs of nature and cityscapes around you.

25. Homemade Puppet Show: Craft simple puppets using socks or paper bags and stage a puppet show.

26. Sports Day: Organize a family sports day with various games like soccer, basketball, or relay races.

27. Pottery/Painting Class: Sign up for a pottery or painting class together at a local community center.

28. Picnic in the Park: Pack your favorite foods and blankets for a fun picnic outing at the nearby park.

29. Talent Show: Encourage your child to discover their talents and showcase them in a family talent show.

30. Family Bike Ride/Adventure: Plan an adventurous bike ride with picnic stops along the way to explore new sights together.

These activities will help keep busy 10-year-olds entertained while ensuring they develop essential skills like social interactions, teamwork, critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, physical fitness, and more. These shared experiences will create lasting memories that both you and your child.

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Decision-making

7 Fun Problem Solving Activities to Support Kids’ Growth

by Suzanne Wintner, MSW, LICSW, PhD

The ability to evaluate a situation, assess your options, and choose the most appropriate course of action can bring feelings of peace and happiness. Problem solving skills are an amazing gift to bestow on your developing child to help them feel empowered and prepared to take on life challenges.

Play presents a powerful opportunity for learning. Approach teaching problem solving skills as yet another learning game with the following fun activities:

1. Interactive storytelling. Children of all ages are easily captivated by a compelling story. From picture books for preschoolers to young adult literature, there’s always a plot offering up a conflict to solve or a social problem to work through. Help your child enjoy a more engaging reading experience by asking questions about what the main character may be feeling or experiencing, and ask for their opinion about what steps the character could take to solve the challenges they may be facing.

2. Pretend play . Roleplaying is a fun way to expose your child to new experiences or situations in a safe, low-pressure setting. Join your child in creative play and gently guide them towards scenarios that require problem solving. For instance, if you’re playing school, take on the role of a student who doesn’t want to do the assigned activity. If you’re playing grocery store, act as if a power outage has made the cash register inoperable. What should we do now? Invite your child to save the day with their solution and talk about a variety of ways they could tackle the problem.

3. Board games. Family game night can be even more meaningful than simply spending time together because it provides a potential opportunity for problem solving.. Check out games like Lion in My Way, Quirkle, Mind Blox, Cat Crimes, or more traditional options like chess or checkers, based on the age ranges and interests of your family. Board games are also an excellent lesson in taking turns, being a good sport, and anger management.

4. Team building activities. Working together to solve a problem is an ideal way to practice social skills in a small group, while also focusing on critical thinking skills. Organizations like Odyssey of the Mind challenge children of all ages to think creatively while working collaboratively, but you could arrange something less formal with a friend group, sports team, or scout den. Many of the activities consist of using everyday items in unusual ways. For instance, ask the group to build a structure using seven pieces of paper — no tape, paperclips, string, or other components — and award points for every inch of height. Set a timer for a group planning period and then a time limit for completing their challenge. Encourage the group to review the project after the fact to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of their strategy.

5. Treasure hunt. For a fun rainy day or indoor activity, design a problem-solving treasure hunt for your child by hiding small items or treats around the house along with cards that contain obscure hints that would direct them to the next clue. You can use picture-based clues or riddles regarding household objects to easily customize your treasure hunt to your child’s age range or skill level.

6. Question and answer quiz. Thought-provoking conversation is an excellent learning aid and a good way to keep the family entertained on long car rides, in waiting rooms, or at your dinner table. Make up a list of “What would you do if…” type questions and ask everyone to take turns answering. If your child thrives off of friendly competition, you can up the ante by assigning points for the most creative or unusual answer or continue the conversation by asking even more questions based on their offered solution.

7. Open ended play. Sometimes the best way to learn can be through life’s more natural lessons. Young children discover a lot about cause and effect and creative thinking through unstructured play. Provide toys like LEGO, train tracks, art supplies, or wooden building blocks and step back and watch the magic happen. Open-ended play is the perfect way to “teach” problem solving as it is a natural and fun way to practice trying solutions independently.

Note from Mightier Clinicians

You can’t solve every problem for your child, but you can teach them how to use critical thinking and problem solving skills, which are a far more valuable contribution to their self-esteem and personal development. Help your child learn how to identify an issue, ask the right questions, brainstorm ideas, choose the best option available, and reflect on the outcome by framing problem solving as a fun activity instead of an obstacle.

Learn more about how Mightier helps kids manage their emotions.

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51 Exciting Activities For 10-Year-Olds

November 14, 2023 //  by  Brittany Collens

There’s never a dull moment with 10-year-olds; they’re full of energy and always on the move. However, if you don’t have activities ready to go, they can get restless, and that’s when trouble starts and you find yourself trying to think up things to keep them amused. We’ve got you covered and have pulled together an amazing list of all kinds of activities from educational explorations to fantastically fun games. Why not work your way through this list of exciting activities with 10-year-olds? You can thank us later!

1. Brainteasers

Brainteasers are great for anyone but are especially great for your 10-year-old students. They’re a brilliant way to keep them busy for hours on end, and you can even join in with them! Not only will they bring a moment of calm as their minds work away, but these puzzles also help them to work on their critical thinking skills!

Learn More: Picklebums

2. Make a Map

Have your kiddos create their very own map! Let them map out whatever they want; it could be the classroom, the school grounds, or their route to school! This activity is the perfect way to let them get creative as they enjoy drawing and coloring all the different areas. You could also then use these in a math lesson about directions and compass points!

3. Visit Local Farms

It’s hard to find a kid who doesn’t know the song about Old MacDonald’s farm, but have any of them ever been to a real-life farm? This field trip is a great educational experience and a lot of fun for everyone involved! Local farmers might give them a behind-the-scenes look at life on the farm and sometimes on certain farms, you can even pick your own fruit!

Learn More: Play Learn Thrive

4. Go Camping

If you are up for a bigger adventure (and if you’re brave enough!) you could take your class camping! Teach them how to set up a tent, forage for firewood, and appreciate the great outdoors. They’ll love sitting around the campfire exchanging stories and making s’mores!

5. Laundry Basket Toss

We bet that your kids can be occupied with anything that feels remotely competitive and that’s why a simple laundry basket toss is the perfect game! Set up a couple of laundry baskets and give them bean bags, balls, or even soft toys, and have them compete in teams to see which team can get the most items into their basket.

Learn More: What Moms L o ve

6. DIY Mini Golf

If a field trip is off the cards, have your kids create their very own mini-golf course on school grounds. Get creative and encourage them to use materials like recycled cans or boxes, LEGO,  and pool noodles to create a challenging course that they’ll need to guide a ball around!

Learn More: What Mom s L ove

7. Make an Indoor Clubhouse

Add a bit of magic to your school or classroom by getting your kiddies involved in making an indoor clubhouse. They can use cardboard boxes, blankets, pillows, and bedsheets to create a cozy secret room that’s just for them; no adults allowed! It’s the perfect place for them to relax with a book or hang out with friends!

Learn More: The Art of Simple

8. Puppet Show

Making puppets is super fun and very easy! With a few simple craft materials like pipe cleaners, googly eyes, and pom poms, you can make them out of paper bags or socks. Take this fun craft a step further by creating a puppet theater and letting your kids come up with a compelling storyline and put on a fun play.

9. Indoor Obstacle Course

There’s nothing worse than a rainy day that keeps your students inside at recess. Get your kiddos to burn off all that extra energy with an indoor obstacle course. With a little imagination, you can set this up in so many ways, using the most simple materials. After an hour of jumping, crawling, running, and more, their weather blues will be long forgotten!

Learn More: YouTube

10. Write a Letter

Fixing your learners up with a pen pal is a fantastic way to improve their social skills and their functional writing in the process! They’ll get excited every time they receive mail from their new friend and be counting down the hours until their next writing session where they can pen their response.

Learn More: Pathways

11. Head to the Beach

If you have a beach nearby, it can make for a fantastic field trip. It’s the perfect spot to take your kiddies to learn more about the environment; from exploring the wildlife present to doing a beach clean, the possibilities are endless. You could even take some games and food down with you and have a bit of fun after learning!

Learn More: What To Get My

12. Games For Being On The Road

If you’re taking a field trip soon, you might want to have some games ready to keep your kids occupied on the journey. You could challenge them to design their own games that can be played on the bus en route or rely on classics like ‘I Spy’ or a memory game like ‘Shopping List’!

13. Go on a Bike Ride

Riding bikes is great exercise and will keep your kids entertained for hours! Take them out and about on their bikes either around the neighborhood if it’s a safe space or around the school grounds. You could even take the opportunity to teach them about bike safety with this series of amazing activities from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration!

Learn More: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

14. Build a Model

Your kids will be blown away when they discover all the things they can build with pre-made sets! There are airplane models, boat and ship models, and so much more. Pick up a couple of these sets and let your kids have fun following the instructions to piece them together. Everyone is sure to be impressed with the final results!

Learn More: Amazon

15. Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt can be a super activity to get your 10-year-olds up and moving! The beauty of this activity is that you can theme it however you want; you could link it to your topic, or take things outside and hunt for items in nature or the local neighborhood!

Learn More: A Healthy Slice of Life

16. Build LEGOs Using The Brickit App

There is no end to the fun your kiddos can have with LEGOs. Their versatile nature invites kids to not only build set items but also to let creativity flow and build whatever springs to their minds. The Brickit app is an amazing tool that shows your kids different options they can build with the bricks they have – just lay the bricks out and snap a picture with the app!

Learn More: Budgeting For Bliss

17. Playdough Fun

Who doesn’t love playing with Playdough? Give your kids a range of different colored Playdoughs and some tools and watch as their creative minds take over! You could have them make items relating to a topic or even use it as concrete material in math lessons on fractions or division.

18. Virtual Amusement Park

VR is becoming increasingly popular with kids and is something that they’ll definitely be using in the future! Give them a taste of this in school with a virtual trip to an amusement park! 3D videos make it possible for them to experience a ton of rides. All they’ll need is a headset and YouTube!

Learn More: Indy’s Child

19. Make Friendship Bracelets

The Taylor Swift fans in your class are already jumping on the friendship bracelet trend, so they’ll be super excited when you announce this activity! You can keep things simple and have your kids use yarn, string, beads, or even elastic bands to bring their wearable art to life!

20. Make Popcorn Garland

What better way to build excitement for the holiday season than by making some DIY decorations? Making popcorn garlands couldn’t be simpler for your kiddos; just have them use a needle and some thread to string together pieces of popcorn and cranberries. We can’t guarantee that all the popcorn will make it onto the string, but your kids are sure to have fun!

Learn More: Woman’s Day

21. Decorate Your Classroom For The Holidays

Bring out the holiday decorations and turn up your Christmas playlist! Spending an afternoon decorating with your kiddies is the ultimate way to get everyone enjoying the Christmas spirit. Letting them join in really makes this a shared experience and will foster a real sense of community in your class!

22. Tea Party Time

Grab the fine china and host a tea party for your class! This is a super way to give your kiddos a bit of a reward after a period of hard work or a tough test! Treat them to a fancy lunch and add to the fun by having everyone dress up and bring some snacks to enjoy.

Learn More: Matchless Day

Get creative in the kitchen with this next idea! For your kids who love to spend time in the kitchen, baking is a super activity that you can get everyone involved with. From measuring out the ingredients and timing the bake to decorating their creations, there are plenty of learning opportunities! Don’t forget the taste-testing at the end!

Learn More: Matchless Daily

24. Host A Fitness Class

You don’t have to be a fitness fanatic to host an energetic fitness class for your little ones; there are plenty of free options on YouTube. From dance parties to yoga sessions, there’s something to suit everyone’s fancy! This is a healthy way for your class to spend an hour and get some of their energy out.

25. Check Out Bugs and Plants in Your Area

Get outside and explore the local wildlife with your learned! Checking out different bugs and plants is educational for kids and they can even use an app to identify them. This may not be everyone’s favorite activity, but it’s a super way to grow an appreciation for the environment and highlight why it’s important to protect it!

Learn More: Kiplinger

26. Make a Movie

Aaaand…..action! Challenge your kiddies to film their own short movie about anything they like. Editing on iMovie or something similar is an excellent way to improve their digital skills and has them considering literacy aspects like narrative and storylines. Be it a documentary, a movie trailer, or a music video, they’re sure to have fun with this project!

Learn More: IdTech

27. Play I Spy

Everyone loves a good game of I Spy! Each child can take a turn at identifying an object that they can see and gives the other players the first letter of the object. The other players then desperately race to be the first to guess what the mystery object is so that they can have the next turn.

Learn More: Mommy Poppins

28. Do a Puzzle

Puzzles are perfect for creating a moment of calm in your classroom. Bring out the jigsaws and let your kids methodically work to organize and put together pieces to reveal the picture. It’s an ideal opportunity to have them working cooperatively in teams as they each take charge of a certain aspect of the work.

29. Create Stickers

Give your learners an exciting opportunity to improve their digital skills by making their own stickers! Show them how to use Canva to design their stickers using existing templates that they can put their own creative stamp on. Then print them onto some vinyl sticker paper for them to take home!

Learn More: Canva

30. Make A Robot

Your tech-savvy students will love this project! Making an art robot is a great screen-free activity for your 10-year-olds that encourages them to problem-solve and use their scientific knowledge. They’ll create these funny robots that have markers for legs and that move, drawing as they go! 

Learn More: Science Buddies

31. Learn To Code

Coding is a skill that lots of your pupils will use in their future careers. Scratch offers a whole host of fun and rewarding virtual activities that are perfect for your 10-year-old learners. Not only will they learn essential problem-solving skills but they’ll also start creating their own amazing programs and games! 

Learn More: Scatch

32. Have A Nerf Battle 

Ready, aim, fire! Nerf battles are a fun and active way for your kiddos to socialize and have some friendly competition! You can set these simple activities up on your school grounds to give them a chance to run around and blow off some steam. You might just be surprised by their cunning strategy and skill!

Learn More: Dart Dudes

33. Test Paper Airplanes

Calling all future aviators! We’re pretty sure your kids are all well-practiced in making a paper airplane, but have they ever tried folding different types of paper airplanes? Challenge them to experiment with different designs and let them discover which ones fly the farthest or the fastest! All they’ll need is a piece of paper and their imagination!

Learn More: Teach Engineering

34. Build K-Nex 

The creative possibilities of K-Nex are endless! These awesome building toys are not only fun to use, but they can help develop problem-solving skills and an engineering mindset. From simple towers to complex rollercoasters, your kiddos will never run out of things to build! 

Learn More: Instructables

35. Grow An Herb Garden

Your class won’t need a lot of encourage- mint to spend thyme growing an amazing herb garden! This is an excellent way to teach them about a whole host of topics; from the growing process and the life cycle of a plant to looking after nature and the benefits of fresh food. Choose a sunny spot, plant some herbs, and watch them grow!

Learn More: PBS

36. Make Stop-Motion Movies

Stop-motion movies are a super way to get your 10-year-olds excited! With just a few supplies like an iPad with a stand, some toys or putty, and a plain background, they can have fun creating a silly animation! Once the filming is done, have them create a voice-over then let them premier their movie to the rest of the class on the big screen!

Learn More: Tinker Lab  

37. Sell Lemonade

Spark your students’ entrepreneurial spirit! Give them a bunch of lemons and let them get squeezing to make some delicious fresh lemonade to sell in the playground or at a school event! Have them consider creating some advertising to let people know about their stall and then decide what they’ll use their profits for! 

Learn More: Lemonade Day

38. Learn to Crochet

Crochet is a fun and easy skill to learn, and it’s perfect for 10-year-olds! By teaching your kiddos just a few basic stitches, they’ll make all sorts of things, from hats and scarves to blankets and toys! What are you waiting for? Dig out the crochet hooks, or show them how to use their fingers and start creating!

Learn More: Yarnspirations

39. Build A Video Game

The gamers in your class will love this one! Bloxels is a fun, interactive activity for kids who are interested in coding and game design. They’ll need to use their imagination and just a few blocks to create their own world, characters, and challenges. They can use the app to create their own characters too!

Learn More: Bloxels

40. Practice Card Tricks

Step aside Dynamo! Let your kiddies become masters of sleight of hand as they learn these jaw-dropping card tricks! Most are relatively simple and easy to follow, so they’ll be able to perform a whole load in no time. What a fun way for your children to impress their friends and family!

Learn More: First Cry Parenting

41. Play Laser Tag

Imagine your pupils’ faces when you announce your next field trip is to laser tag! The game is fast-paced and exciting, and will require your kiddos to use quick thinking and sharpen their reflexes to stay one step ahead of their opponents! So grab your lasers and get moving! 

Learn More: Steradian Laser Tag

42. Fold Origami

Your students will love mastering this traditional form of Japanese art! Origami is a relaxing hobby that they can progress the difficulty of whenever they feel they’re ready for something more challenging. They’ll create various objects, from simple shapes to complex sculptures. It’s a great way to enjoy a creative moment of calm in your classroom. 

Learn More: Origami Expressions  

43. Build A Bridge

What’s the best way to build a bridge? Your 10-year-olds will love answering this question as they complete this super STEM activity. Start them off with a few simple materials like popsicle sticks and glue, then let their imaginations and problem-solving work together to construct a sturdy, functional bridge. 

Learn More: 17 Build-A-Bridge Activities For Students Of All Ages

44. Play 20 Questions

Develop your class’ critical thinking and questioning skills with this next game! Twenty Questions is a classic game that is a great way to test their knowledge and powers of deduction. You can think of anything; a person, place, object, animal, or number, then have your students try to guess what it is by asking only 20 yes or no questions! Can they do it?

Learn More: The Genius of Play

45. Make A Cardboard Arcade

If you have a load of cardboard boxes waiting to be recycled then this is the activity for you. Give the boxes to your kids along with some scissors, glue, and tape, and let them build their very own arcade games! This fun and creative activity is something the whole class can get involved with and enjoy.

Learn More: PBS Kids

46. Play Cops and Robbers

Cops and Robbers is a classic game of tag that is absolutely spot-on for 10-year-olds! Divide your class into two teams and let them chase each other around until all the robbers are caught (or tagged) by the cops! Encourage your robbers to be sneaky and use the surroundings to their advantage!

Learn More: Scouts

47. Play Hand Clapping Games

Hand-clapping games are a blast, and they’re a great way for your kiddos to have some fun without needing screens or game equipment. From Mary Mack to Concentration, the list of these different rhyming and clamping games goes on! Encourage them to have a go and they may be surprised at how much they actually enjoy it!

Learn More: Today’s Parent

48. Set Up A Laser Maze

Can your kiddies complete this Mission Impossible-style obstacle course? Creating a laser maze is a hilariously challenging activity that will test their teamwork and problem-solving skills, as well as their spatial awareness. In this activity, they must navigate a maze of yarn lasers without making contact; the first team to make it through wins!

Learn More: Welcome To Nana’s  

49. Make A Rube Goldberg Machine

Rube Goldberg machines are the ultimate lesson in cause and effect! This activity is perfect for your learners who love to tinker and create with simple materials. Their wacky contraptions will set each other off in an exciting chain reaction that will amaze and delight anyone watching. They’ll need to be resourceful and creative to find different elements they can use!

Learn More: Tinker Lab

50. Play A Card Game

No screens? No problem! A deck of cards will keep your kids entertained for hours once you show them a few classic card games. From Solitaire to Speed to Spoons, there are hundreds of different games they can play to stave off boredom. 

51. Play Who am I?

Who am I? is a fantastic icebreaker activity for any class. Give each student a card or sticky note with a person or object on it to stick on their head. They’ll then mingle and ask each other yes or no questions to figure out who or what they are. The first person to guess correctly wins the game!

Learn More: Ice Breaker Ideas

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Home • Kid • Development

15 Fun Activities To Teach Problem Solving To Kids

Problem-solving skills help children efficiently manage difficult moments in their lives.

Dr. Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri, popularly referred to as ‘The Celebrity Shrink,’ is an award-winning neuro-psychiatrist and mental health advocate with over 15 years experience.She is the medical director and psychiatrist-in-chief at Pin... read full bio

Advaitaa is a digital marketing and content writing specialist with around seven years of experience. She’s worked on a variety of genres including travel, fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and health and w... read full bio

Harshita is a graduate in commerce and holds a PG Diploma in Patent and Copyrights Law from NALSAR University. She has also pursued CA and has more than three years of internship experience in auditin... read full bio

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Children receive numerous opportunities to learn about the world as they get older. However, they also regularly encounter problems, whether it is peer pressure, difficult arithmetic calculations, or disagreements with their peers. The benefits of problem-solving skills for kids are numerous and can help them effectively deal with such situations.

They will learn to find practical solutions independently without relying on an adult. Further, when they encounter difficulties, they will be more confident in their ability to employ their problem-solving skills and develop innovative solutions on their own.

Read this post to know the importance of problem-solving abilities for children, how to inculcate this skill in them, and for some exercises to help them develop this essential skill.

Importance Of Problem-Solving Skills For Kids

Problem-solving benefits children in numerous ways. It helps them

• Cope with challenges in everyday life.
• Make effective decisions.
• Pick up other skills, such as cooperation , critical thinking, and collaboration along the way.
• Resolve problems without breaking them down.
• Think outside the box.
• Become more independent.

How To Inculcate Problem-Solving Skills In Children

Here are a few ways to encourage your child to utilize their problem-solving skills.

1. Test it out

Whenever your child encounters a problem, ask them to acknowledge it and embrace the challenge. It will help hone their analytical and reasoning skills. If the outcome is ineffective, they can try different brainstorming approaches to find a practical and effective solution. It will nudge your child’s creativity and encourage them to look at problems from different angles.

2. Ask for advice

Sometimes, you may struggle to make decisions in your everyday life. For instance, you might struggle to decide what to cook for dinner or what to wear to the movies. Ask your children to help you make these simple decisions . When you ask them for their advice, it teaches them that they’re not the only ones who face problems. When you value their ideas, it will give them the confidence to solve problems independently. Besides, it will churn their thinking and analyzing skills, which will eventually help them in decision making.

3. Take a deep breath

One of the first steps to effective problem solving is remaining calm. Even with youngsters, when their emotions go out of hand, it’s difficult to look at things rationally, and the tendency to make impulsive decisions becomes higher. It’s important to teach your child to take deep breaths every time they feel they’re losing control of their emotions . Once they’re calm, they can assess the situation better.

4. Verbalize the problem

It would help your child if they verbally express how they feel and what they’re struggling with after calming down. It helps them gain perspective and makes it easier for them to come up with potential solutions.

5. Don’t provide “the answer”

While it’s difficult to watch your children struggle with an issue, do not give them the answer outright. Instead, give them hints to help them solve the problem independently. This way, they can learn to come up with creative solutions independently, using their logic and creativity.

6. Lead by example

Children are like sponges and pick up things very quickly. So, when you confront a problem and come up with an effective solution, they’ll notice how you address issues and try to emulate you.

7. Allow natural consequences to unfold

Sometimes, letting the problem run its course is the best way to deal with it. So, when your child is faced with a problem, let them be. Let’s suppose your child spent all their weekly allowance in a day or two; let them go the entire week without allowance. This will set them up to make better choices in the future.

15 Problem-Solving Activities For Kids

There’s no better way to learn than through play. The following activities are quite fun and require children to display their problem-solving skills.

One of the best problem-solving activities for children is puzzles. They come in various difficulty levels. Based on your child’s age, you can pick the appropriate one. Give them a puzzle, and they will learn to analyze the problem/question, find different ways of solving it, and arrive at the solution .

Additionally, the activity will help improve their critical-thinking skills, gross motor skills, and hand-eye coordination.

2. Scavenger hunt

One of the educational activities that every parent should introduce to their children is scavenger hunt. It is an inexpensive, easy, fun activity that can be done both indoors and outdoors and requires nothing more than the items you already have at home. The activity allows children to think outside the box. Without being aware, they’re learning problem-solving in a fun way, using their exploration skills.

Korbalagae, a former preschool through grade one teacher, shares an exciting idea for a problem-solving scavenger hunt. She narrates, “One of my favorite low prep lessons was the gingerbread man. I mostly needed buy-in from my colleagues and some cookie dough. Once we had read the book, I would have my students make gingerbread cookies, but as in the stories, ours would go missing.

“Our head cook, Mr Patrice, came to give us some terrible news that our cookies had disappeared when he went to look in the oven. This started our problem-solving. We had to figure out where our cookies had gone and how to get them back… We then had to come up with a plan of how to find them and where to look… My students had a chance to solve a problem. We had different theories of how our cookies went missing and where they could be, and for each idea, we examined it as a group. What was always wonderful to see was how one student’s idea would be picked up by another student and expanded upon ( i ).”

3. Storybooks

Reading offers a plethora of benefits. One of them is problem-solving. When children read stories , they come across various characters and the roles they play. Most often, children get attached to these characters. So, when they come across a problem, ask them how their favorite character would have solved it. Encourage them to come up with a variety of solutions and discuss the possible outcomes of each.

Engaging them in arts and crafts is another excellent way to teach children problem-solving skills. Give your child a variety of materials lying around the house and let them unleash their imagination. Let them come up with all sorts of exciting creations or repair broken toys or gadgets. Allow them to work independently, and guide them only when they are out of ideas.

5. Open-ended questions

Asking open-ended questions is an excellent way to improve your child’s ability to think creatively and critically and improve their problem-solving skills . With these questions, there’s no right or wrong answer, and the answer goes beyond a simple ‘no’ or ‘yes.’ They have to put some thought into their answers. Here are a few questions you can ask after each session.

• What was difficult? What was easy?
• What did you learn?
• What do you think will happen next?
• How did you arrive at the solution?
• What would you do differently the next time?

Mazes are fun and safe for all age groups. When they work on mazes, it makes them think. The activity also improves their motor skills, observational skills, sense of direction, and problem-solving skills. Think beyond book mazes – you can find many maze games on the web. With practice, they’ll get better at finding their way out. Eventually, you can give them more complex mazes to solve, which help enhance their problem resolution skills.

7. Mini treasure hunt

Treasure hunt is one game that can get the entire family involved. You can keep their minds at work, especially if they know they’re going to win something in the end. Give them clues that encourage them to think outside the box and use their problem analysis skills to find the treasure in the end. Here are a few hints you could use to let them find the treasure:

• My job is to put an end to your sleep. I do so with a beep, buzz, or music. (Ans: alarm clock)
• I don’t have a face or arms, but I have hands that move at a steady pace. (Ans: Clock)
• I’m filled with soft feathers, and it’s quite impossible for you to sleep without me. (Ans: Pillow/blanket)
• Use me to clean your car in a jiffy or to give plants a drink. (Ans: Water hose)

8. Building with toys

Give your children LEGO blocks, wooden blocks, engineering blocks, etc., and make them build whatever they wish. Building with toys provides ample experimentation opportunities that require children to think and develop creative solutions to ensure a functional design. You can once, in a way, ask them to build something challenging, such as a creature with three arms or two towers with a joining bridge. Watch them rack their brains as they try to come up with a structure.

9. Wool web

Give the children a multi-colored yarn and ask them to stand in a circle. One person loops the ball of yarn across a finger and passes it to another person. Once every person gets a chance to hold the ball and loop the yarn across their finger, a web would be created.

Now, blindfold one member and ask them to follow the verbal instructions of the others to unwind the web. This group activity involves teamwork, focus, patience, coordination, concentration, and problem-solving skills to figure a way out.

10. The human knot

It is a simple game that’s extremely fun. In this game, you need a group of children. Make the children form a circle and raise their hands. Start with one player, who has to use their right hand to hold onto a player’s hand from across the circle and their left hand onto someone else’s hand. Check if everyone has held both hands with different players. Now, without breaking the circle, they must untangle themselves. The challenge is complete once everyone’s hands are free and they are back in the circle.

11. Impromptu skits

Divide the players into teams. Write down different scenarios, such as dealing with bullying in school or resolving a fight between siblings, on pieces of paper, fold them, and place them in a bowl. Each team/player picks a chit and acts out the scenario. You can give them a time limit to prepare. Such impromptu activities help children identify a problem, formulate a solution, and execute it.

12. Group drawing

Another excellent team-building activity for sharpening children’s problem-solving and communication skills is group drawing. Divide children into teams of three. Each of the three players in the team has a role to play .

One person is the drawer, who takes directions from the instructor to attempt to create a design. They should stand with their back to the instructor and viewer and must not talk.

Next is the instructor. The instructor is the one who gives out verbal instructions as to how the drawer must draw a particular design.

The viewer looks at the design. But, they’re not allowed to talk and can only communicate with the instructor via gestures.

You have a winner when the viewer is satisfied with the drawer’s picture. You can let the children take turns playing different roles.

13. Clue me in

Clue me in is a fun detective game that encourages cognitive development, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Start by selecting five to six target answers, such as a public figure, animal, historical event, social trend, or profession. Now, collect five to ten items associated with each target answer. They can be pictures from the Internet too. Place them in different bags.

Now decide how many clues a child can pick before making a guess. If it’s two, let the child pick up two clues from a bag and make their first guess. See who’s able to answer the quickest.

14. Survivor scenarios

Here’s another game that doesn’t require any items. In this game, you have to create pretend-play scenarios for children, who have to analyze and think out of the box to solve. For instance, give them this scenario, “You’re stuck on an island, and you know help will not come for two days. So how will you create a shelter for yourself with items around you?” Thinking about solutions to such situations will take a child’s innovation and imagination skills to the next level.

15. Moral dilemma

Children often find themselves in a dilemma. This simple game, without their knowledge, will help them cope with such scenarios. On pieces of paper, write down different dilemmas, such as ‘The cashier gave me $1 extra in change; what should I do?’ or ‘I saw my friend bullying someone at school. Should I stop them or let them be?’ Then fold it up and place it in a bowl. Get each child to pick one piece of paper, read it aloud, and come up with creative solutions on the spot to handle the situation. This fun activity will help children in problem identification and resolution, using contemplation.

16. Tic-Tac-Toe

Tic-Tac-Toe is one of the popular problem-solving activities for kids. It helps children learn patterns and symbols while boosting their problem-solving skills by building strategic and logical thinking. Draw a 3×3 grid and engage two children as players (one player uses X and the other O). Let each child take turns placing X and O in an empty square. The target is to get three consecutive Xs or Os in a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal pattern, and the first player to do so wins.

17. Board games

Board games are a great way to help children learn strategic thinking and foresight. There are several age-appropriate board games to choose from. Popular ones include Ludo, Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly, Chess, Checkers and Scrabble. The number of players will vary based on the instructions in the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. At what age do children begin problem-solving?

Children are believed to acquire the basics of problem-solving by age three. But it is not refined since it is intervened by short attention span and difficulty in understanding the problems on their own. Their problem-solving skills develop as they grow up (1) .

2. What are three problem-solving strategies?

The three common problem-solving strategies are (2) :

• Trial and error: Trying different ways to solve a problem until it is resolved
• Algorithm: Following a step-by-step formula to solve the problem
• Heuristic: Following a problem-solving framework such as breaking it into steps

3. What are the most common mistakes children make when solving problems?

One common mistake is children rushing to solve the problem out of excitement without understanding the problem. They may not try to comprehend the wording of a problem, which prevents them from identifying the facts. The urge to complete one question quickly and move to the next also makes them give the wrong answers.

4. What are the potential challenges of teaching problem-solving to kids?

Some of the challenges that educators face when teaching problem-solving is the developing cognitive skills in children that may prevent them from understanding specific concepts. The absence of background knowledge to solve a particular problem also hinders the process. In addition, children tend to have limited attention affecting their focus on solving a complex problem. Finally, a lack of appropriate materials and resources can also challenge teaching problem-solving.

Problems are a part of life, and the sooner children learn to tackle them, the better. Problem-solving for kids is an important skill because it helps them cope with everyday difficulties, challenges them to think differently, and learn more critical thinking skills. You may teach problem-solving skills to your children by encouraging them to share their problems, driving them to find their answers, or setting a good example. You can also involve them in problem-solving activities, such as puzzles, scavenger hunts, and mazes. Your focused efforts will help your children grow independent and confident in their problem structuring skills.

Infographic: “IDEALS” – A Method Of Problem Solving

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Key Pointers

• Problem-solving skills teach kids to think out of the box and independently cope with life’s challenges.
• Guiding them to acknowledge the problem and letting them solve the problem themselves could teach problem-solving skills in children.
• Puzzles, scavenger hunts, mazes, and many more fun and engaging activities to hone your child’s problem-solving skills as you scroll down.

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team

Personal Experience: Source

MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.

• ACADEMIC AND FUNCTIONAL LITERACY Outcome Component 2: Demonstrates Competence in Problem Solving; https://cales.arizona.edu/sfcs/cyfernet/nowg/academic_component2.html
• Problem Solving; https://opentext.wsu.edu/psych105/chapter/7-4-problem-solving/
• Fact-checker

Dr. Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri MD

Advaitaa ravi bba, harshita makvana b.com, pg dip, nisha bharatan b.tech, latest articles, when can babies see clearly and their vision development.

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Problem Solving for Kids: How-To Guide, Activities & Strategies

Children need to be able to solve their own problems. In daily life, kids face a lot of set of social circumstances and challenges. Whether they’re trying to figure out how to make friends, deal with bullies, or solve academic problems, they need strong problem-solving skills to be successful.

Problem-solving is a critical life skill that all kids need to learn. By teaching them how to identify and solve problems on their own, you’ll be setting them up for success in school and in life.

What are Social Problem-Solving Skills?

Social problem-solving skills are a skill set that involves behavioral and cognitive processes which allow an individual to find adaptive and positive ways of handling problematic situations that can arise in the social environment in our daily life. These skills comprise an understanding of emotions, empathy, self-awareness, prosocial behavior, anger management, perspective-taking, establishing positive relationships, and so on.

Why It’s Important for Children to Learn the Skills to Problem-Solve

Social problem-solving skills are important for kids to learn because they allow them to cope with the various challenges they face in their social environments, such as peer pressure, bullying, and exclusion from social groups. In addition, these skills can help them resolve conflicts effectively and build positive relationships with others.

How to teach Problem-Solving skills

There are many ways to develop social problem-solving skills in kids . One way is to provide them with opportunities to practice these skills through different activities and games.

There are a few key things that parents and educators can do to help kids develop strong problem-solving skills:

Teach Children to Identify the Problem

One of the most important steps in solving any problem is being able to accurately identify what the problem is. This can be tricky for kids, especially if they’re feeling emotional about the situation. Help them by teaching them how to take a step back and look at the problem objectively.

Help Kids Brainstorm Solutions

Once kids can identify the problem, it’s time to start brainstorming possible solutions. This is where creativity and out-of-the-box thinking come in handy. Encourage kids to think of as many possible solutions as they can, no matter how far-fetched they might seem.

Help Kids Weigh the Pros and Cons

After Children can come up with a few potential solutions, it’s time to help them figure out which one is the best option. This is where critical thinking comes in. Teach kids how to weigh the pros and cons of each solution and make a decision based on logic, not emotions.

Help Kids Implement the Solution

The final step is helping kids actually implement the solution they’ve chosen. This might involve role-playing different scenarios, practicing what they would say or do, or writing out a plan. Whatever the case, be sure to provide support and guidance every step of the way.

Praise Kids

It’s essential to praise your child when they demonstrate social problem-solving skills. This will help him feel confident in his abilities and encourage him to continue using these skills.

Also, proper guidance and opportunities to practice problem-solving skills should be provided for kids to be efficient enough to solve problems on their own. In addition to providing opportunities for practice, it is also important to model problem-solving skills for your child. 

By following these tips, you can help your child develop strong social problem-solving skills that will serve him well throughout his life.

Problem-solving in Child Development

Most children go through similar phases of problem-solving as they develop. However, the timing may vary depending on the child’s individual temperament and circumstances.

Here are some common milestones:

• Ages 2-3: During the age of 2-3 years, kids begin to understand that problems can be solved. They also start to develop a sense of self-control and can begin to use words to express their emotions.
• Ages 3-4: By 3-4 years old, kids are usually better at problem-solving and can use more logical thinking. They’re also beginning to understand other people’s feelings and perspectives.
• Ages 4-5: Around 4-5 years old, kids can usually think of multiple solutions to a problem. They’re also starting to understand the concept of cause and effect.
• Ages 5-6: By 5-6 years old, most kids can apply problem-solving skills in their everyday lives. They’re also able to understand complex emotions and empathize with others.
• Ages 6-7: Around 6-7 years old, kids are usually able to understand even more complex emotions. They’re also starting to see the world from other people’s perspectives and can use this knowledge to solve problems.
• Ages 7-8: By 7-8 years old, kids are often able to solve problems quickly and efficiently. They’re also able to think abstractly and see the world from multiple perspectives.
• Ages 8-9: Around 8-9 years old, kids are usually able to solve problems independently. They’re also beginning to understand the concept of time and how it can be used to solve problems.
• Ages 9-10: By 9-10 years old, kids are often able to solve complex problems. They’re also able to think abstractly and see the world from multiple perspectives.
• Ages 10-11: Around 10-11 years old, kids are usually able to solve problems independently. They’re also beginning to understand the concept of time and how it can be used to solve problems.
• Ages 11-12: By 11-12 years old, kids are often able to solve complex problems. They’re also able to think abstractly and see the world from multiple perspectives.
• Ages 12-13: Around 12-13 years old, kids are usually able to solve problems independently. They’re also beginning to understand the concept of time and how it can be used to solve problems.

As children get older, they should be able to solve more complex problems. If you’re concerned about your child’s problem-solving abilities, talk to their doctor or a child development specialist.

 Social Problem-Solving Strategies

There are several strategies that can help children of primary age to solve problems. Some of them are as follows:

• Encouraging children to take turns and share. This strategy helps children to be more patient and to understand that other people have feelings too. It also allows them to share their own feelings and thoughts more openly.
• Helping children to understand and express their emotions. This strategy helps children to identify and understand their own emotions , as well as the emotions of others. It also allows them to express their emotions in a more positive way.
• Teaching children how to compromise. This strategy helps children to understand that sometimes it is necessary to give up something in order to get something else. It also teaches them how to negotiate and how to reach an agreement with others.
• Encouraging children to think about other people’s perspectives. This strategy helps children to understand that other people have different points of view. It also allows them to see the world from another person’s perspective and to empathize with others.
• Helping children to understand and follow rules. This strategy helps children to understand that there are certain rules that must be followed in order to maintain order and peace. It also teaches them how to respect the rules of others.
• Teaching children how to improve their skills to problem-solve. This strategy helps children to understand that there are many ways to solve a problem. It also teaches them how to think creatively and to come up with their own solutions.

These are just a few of the social problem-solving strategies that can help children of primary age to solve problems. For more information, please talk to your child’s doctor or a child development specialist.

Social Problem-Solving Skills Activities

Games and activities for socialization are an excellent way for children for learning how to behave in social surroundings such as school or in the community.

It is essential for children to learn how to take turns, share, cooperate and resolve conflicts.

Here are some activities to improve social problem-solving skills for children of different age groups:

Social Problem-solving Activities for Preschoolers

Preschoolers are very young and need a lot of help to learn social problem-solving skills. The following activities are fun and will help them develop problem-solving skills.

• Circle Time: This is a great activity for kids to learn how to take turns and share. Give each child a turn to be in the center of the circle and share something about themselves such as their favorite color, food , animal, etc.
• Simon Says: This classic game is a great way for kids to listen and follow instructions. It also helps with problem-solving skills as they have to figure out what Simon is saying.
• Role-Playing: This is a great activity for kids to learn how to resolve conflicts. Have kids act out different scenarios such as sharing toys or taking turns. After each scene, discuss what happened and how the conflict could have been resolved.

Social Problem-solving Activities for Kindergarteners

Kindergarteners are still very young. So, they may need assistance when it comes to social problem-solving skills.

The following activities will give them a chance to practice these skills in a safe and fun environment.

• Cooperative Building: Have the kids work together in small groups to build towers or houses out of blocks or Legos. This activity will help them learn to share, take turns, and cooperate with others.
• Role-Playing: Act out different social situations with puppets or toys. For example, one child can be the customer in a store and the other children can take turns being the salesperson. This activity will help kids learn how to handle different social situations.
• Feelings Matching: Cut out pictures of people with different facial expressions from magazines or newspapers. Ask the kids to match the pictures with the corresponding feeling words (e.g., happy, sad, mad, etc.). This activity will help kids learn to identify and understand different emotions.

Social Problem-solving Activities for School-Aged Kids

As kids get older, they become more independent and are able to handle more complex social situations.

The following activities will help them practice their social problem-solving skills.

• Brainstorming: This activity can be done individually or in a group. Give your child a scenario and have them come up with as many solutions as possible. For example, “Your best friend just cancelled your play date. What are three things you could do?”
• Exercising empathy: It’s important for kids to be able to empathize with others and see things from their perspective. When they’re struggling to solve a problem, help them think about how the other person is feeling. For example, “Your friend might be feeling upset too. Maybe you can talk to her about why she cancelled the play date.
• Problem Solving Games: Games are a fun way to teach children the skills of solving problems. Try playing some classic board games like Chutes and Ladders or Candyland, which require players to make decisions and strategize. There are also many great online games, like Mission to Mars and Robot City, that help kids practice problem-solving.
• Discussing Problem-Solving Skills: As a family, discuss different problem-solving strategies. For example, “If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed or don’t know what to do, take a deep breath and think about what would be the best thing to do in that situation.”
• Model Good Problem-Solving Skills: As a parent, you are your child’s biggest role model. So, it’s important to model good problem-solving skills yourself. Whenever you’re faced with a problem, talk aloud about how you’re going to solve it. For example, “I’m having trouble finding my keys. I think I’ll check the couch first and then look in the car.”
• Encourage positive thinking: Help your child look on the bright side by encouraging them to think of the positive outcomes of a situation. For example, “Even though your play date was cancelled, you now have some free time to do something else you enjoy.
• Practice: It’s important to give kids opportunities to use their problem-solving skills in everyday life. When they’re faced with a social challenge, take a step back and let them try to figure it out on their own. Of course, be there to support them if they need help.

Social Problem-solving Activities for High-School Students 

High-school students often face a variety of social problems. They may have difficulty making friends, fitting in with classmates, or dealing with bullies.

Some students may also struggle with more serious issues, such as gangs, drugs, or violence.

There are a number of activities that can be used to help high-school students with improving their social problem-solving skills. These are as follows:

• Peer Mediation: This activity involves two or more students who are in conflict with each other. The mediator(s) helps the students to communicate with each other and find a resolution to the problem.
• Role-Playing: This is a great activity for helping high-school students to understand different perspectives. Students can take on the role of the person they are in conflict with, and then discuss how they would feel in that situation.
• Problem-Solving Groups: These groups usually consist of 4-6 students who meet to discuss a particular problem. The group leader(s) helps the students to brainstorm solutions and come up with a plan of action.
• Attending Debates: Debates can be a great way for high-school students to learn about different perspectives on social issues. Students can also practice their own argumentative and problem-solving skills by participating in debates.
• Service Learning: This is a type of community service that helps high-school students to understand and address social problems. Students typically work with organizations that focus on issues such as poverty, homelessness, or hunger.

Cultivating Resilience in Children

Developing resilience in children is a key aspect of nurturing their emotional health and equipping them to face life’s challenges head-on. It involves helping them understand that difficulties and setbacks are a normal part of life, and they can grow stronger from overcoming them.

By fostering a secure and loving environment, and by being role models of resilience ourselves, we can instill in children the ability to adapt to change and cope with stress.

One effective method to cultivate resilience in children is by encouraging them to express their feelings and thoughts openly.

Providing a safe space where they feel heard and understood helps them to understand their emotions better, which is a crucial step in resilience building. It’s important to validate their feelings, not minimize them, as it teaches them that it’s normal to experience different emotions, and it’s okay to discuss them.

Another significant way to build resilience is by teaching problem-solving skills. Guiding children through the process of identifying a problem, brainstorming possible solutions, choosing the best one, and reflecting on the outcome can equip them with valuable life skills.

As they practice, they will become more adept at facing challenges, whether big or small, and this boosts their confidence and self-efficacy. The beauty of resilience is that it isn’t an inherent trait; it’s a skill that can be learned and cultivated, one challenge at a time.

Teaching social problem-solving skills can help high-school students learn how to handle these types of situations. These skills can also help them in other areas of their lives, such as dealing with family conflict or managing their emotions.

Through these activities, high-school students can learn important problem-solving skills that will help them in their everyday lives.

There are many different activities that you can do to help your child develop problem-solving skills. Choose activities that are appropriate for your child’s age and interests.

And, most importantly, have fun!

Tips, D. (2022). Developing Problem-Solving Skills for Kids | Strategies & Tips | Kodable Blog. Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.kodable.com/learn/problem-solving-skills-for-kids/

How to Teach Problem-Solving Skills to Children and Preteens. (2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://biglifejournal.com/blogs/blog/how-teach-problem-solving-strategies-kids-guide#:~:text=Allow%20your%20child%20to%20choose,the%20process%20of%20problem%2Dsolving .

Teaching Kids How to Solve Their Own Problems and Make Good Decisions. (2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.verywellfamily.com/teach-kids-problem-solving-skills-1095015

(2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.werockthespectrumkidsgym.com/social-skills-activities-that-teach-kids-problem-solving/

srivastava, m., & srivastava, m. (2022). 12 Problem-Solving Activities For Toddlers And Preschoolers. Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.momjunction.com/articles/problem-solving-activities-for-toddlers_00795607/

20 Evidence-Based Social Skills Activities and Games for Kids. (2022). Retrieved 6 June 2022, from https://www.positiveaction.net/blog/social-skills-activities-and-games-for-kids

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