The Importance of Problem Solving
Problem solving skills are an essential part of our daily lives, from small to big issues. Children and young people need these skills to help them navigate the challenges that life throws their way and develop positive mental health. Good problem solving skills equip children and young people with the ability to cope with stress, make informed decisions, and increase their self-confidence.
- Encourage open communication One of the most important aspects of problem solving is communication. Encourage your child or young person to talk about their problems, thoughts and feelings. This will help them to understand their emotions and become more comfortable expressing themselves.
- Teach the steps of problem solving Problem solving skills are best taught when they are broken down into steps. Children and young people can be taught the following steps:
- Identify the problem
- Gather information
- Generate options
- Evaluate options
- Make a decision
- Implement the solution
- Encourage active problem solving Encourage children and young people to be proactive in solving their problems. This means that they should take the initiative to look for solutions, instead of just relying on others to solve their problems for them.
- Provide guidance and support As a parent or carer, you can provide guidance and support to help your child or young person solve their problems. This means giving them the space to explore their options and encouraging them to come up with their own solutions. However, you can also provide support by offering advice and practical suggestions.
- Emphasize the importance of positive thinking Positive thinking is an essential part of problem solving. Children and young people need to be encouraged to think positively, even when things are not going well. This means that they need to focus on the things that they can do, rather than the things that they cannot do.
Conclusion Teaching problem solving skills is crucial for the positive mental health of children and young people. By following these guidelines, parents and carers can help their children and young people develop the skills they need to face life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
References
- “Problem Solving Skills: Definition, Steps and Examples”, Open Learning, accessed on 20th September 2021, https://openlearning.com/courses/soft-skills/problem-solving-skills/
- “The Importance of Problem Solving Skills in Children and Young People”, Better Help, accessed on 20th September 2021, https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/general/the-importance-of-problem-solving-skills-in-children-and-young-people/
