The Most Important Key To Teaching Problem-Solving To The Very Young
- Nanci Bradley
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Start early!
Parents and caregivers start teaching children to solve their own problems as soon as they're born. They do that by reacting to them and communicating with them. People who have had many such positive interactions in their own early childhood tend to do this without thinking. Others can learn.
Every time you react to an infant by lifting them up and smiling at them fondly, or let them swipe at a toy while talking them through it instead of grabbing it for them, you're teaching them to solve problems. Be aware of how you're supporting their learning.
A great place to stay up to date on child development issues is the Harvard Center on the Developing Child. I'll include a link to their site in my citations, where you can browse short videos with great examples of these brain-building interactions occurring in everyday life.
Most people want to raise children who are smart, strong, and compassionate. During the first few years of life, we have a unique opportunity to develop all three traits by teaching this single, all-encompassing skill of problem-solving.
But how? There is so much information out there, how do we know what's real and what's hyperbole? And who has time to do research when actually caring for young children who rarely let us rest?
Relax, at Early Childhood Rocks, we know how important you are to them, so we've done the homework for you and condensed years of research and experience into 4 scientifically-backed strategies that enhance early brain development and problem-solving.
These strategies require time and dedication. The more often they're engaged in, the better the results.
They are:
Creating Connections
Identifying Feelings
Supporting Play
Setting Boundaries Without Blame
This is a short, easy-to-read, easy-to-implement presentation that is relatable to real parents and caregivers.
The first two techniques are already done by many loving parents and caregivers, but techniques 3 and 4 are, regrettably, missed by some.
We want to make problem-solving as easy for you as possible. Children test limits. Parents, teachers, nannies, caregivers, and grandparents need support, not blame. That's why our guide is not only free but also instantly accessible, even if you don't want to join our community of people dedicated to changing the world through early childhood care and education. You can get your copy regardless.
You can always join us later for even more free ideas and support. We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to you. We know that your actions today create the world of the future.
Here's the secret: Click the little black star on our website, and you'll see all 4 techniques right away!
Nanci J Bradley is an early childhood and family educator, author, teacher, family aerobics instructor, and all-around fun-loving person. She believes in the power of sleep, healthy eating, lifelong learning, and most of all, PLAY! (click on the word) She studied early childhood education at Triton College and received her BS in education from NIU in 1986. She received her MA in human development from Pacific Oaks College in 2011. She lives and teaches in Madison, WI.
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