Developing Critical Thinking: Problem Solving Scenarios for Kindergarteners
This morning, I discovered a hole in my sock while getting ready for work! I shared that story with my students during math and asked them to give me ideas on how I might have solved the problem. As one might expect, their ideas were both creative and hilarious.
As educators and parents, we know it’s just as important to teach life skills as it is to teach academics. Problem-solving, in particular, is a skill that helps children develop both critical thinking and resilience. Kindergarteners are at the perfect age to explore these skills, and in my class, we start from day one. I am always looking for ways to help my students practice analyzing information so that they can make informed decisions.
One of my favorite ways to foster problem-solving is by introducing dilemmas—everyday challenges that encourage kids to think critically by offering creative solutions. Exploring dilemmas is a practice that I have been doing in my mentoring group. So, I thought ... why not figure out a way to bring this concept into my teaching practice? That's how Mrs. Thinkeroo came about!
Who is Mrs. Thinkeroo?
Mrs. Thinkeroo is a fictitious teacher who always seems to face quirky dilemmas. The dilemmas can be social, academic, or just an everyday life kind of scenario. Mrs. Thinkerroo is cheerful, resourceful, and loves asking for help from her students!
Why Mrs. Thinkeroo’s Scenarios Work
These scenarios are not focused on finding the “right” answer. They are designed to help students explore possibilities in creative ways. They also allow kindergarteners to build confidence in their ability to share their mathematical thinking.
Students love helping Mrs. Thinkeroo solve the various problems! I remind my students that great learning happens when we work our way through a problem. Of course, we spend a bit of time exploring what a "problem" is before hand!
What’s Included in This Resource
This resource is packed with tools to make problem-solving fun and interactive:
- 30 Engaging Scenarios: Thought-provoking dilemmas that spark creativity.
- Visual Scenario Cards: Illustrations that help children understand each problem.
Ways to Use This Resource
Here are some of my favorite ways to incorporate problem-solving into our day:
Role-Playing: Turn scenarios into skits by having students act out both the problem and their solutions.
Morning Circle: Add a dilemma to you morning message. Have students do a turn and talk to share their thinking.
Writing/ Math Journals: Have students draw or write their solutions to the dilemma.
Ready to Jump In?
Are you ready to empower your students with creative problem-solving skills? Grab this resource today and watch their critical thinking grow with Mrs. Thinkeroo!
Looking for games to support logical thinking?
Here are some I love to use in my class!
Happy teaching!
TP@SparkingCreativity
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