Modeling Effective Problem Solving Skills
Let your own problem-solving strategies be examples for your children.
- Provide your child with an example of how to manage unexpected events and involve them by asking them to suggest their own solutions!
- Acknowledge when situations don’t go as planned. It is reassuring for kids to realize that adults make mistakes too!
- Think about how you solve your own problems. Model your thought process by saying your thoughts outloud and keep a positive attitude.
When everyday difficulties arise, talk aloud as you work through them. While getting dressed in the morning, you might say,
“I have a problem. I wanted to wear this shirt to work but it is still in the dirty laundry pile. What do you think I should do? What else could I wear? I feel disappointed, but I know I can wear the shirt tomorrow once it’s clean.”