Why Problem Solving Skills are Critical for Students

Problem solving skills equip students with the ability to think critically, adapt to new situations, and excel in academics and future careers, fostering lifelong success.

Problem solving abilities refer to our capacity to analyse issues in depth and quickly come up with workable solutions. Our capacity to bounce back swiftly from adversity and difficulties is referred to as resilience.  

Rainbows and children have symbolic meanings. After darkness and rain, the rainbow serves as a reminder of positivity. In a similar manner, children remind us that there’s a better tomorrow and help us build more strength and resilience. But with the evolving world around us, with increased competition and academic responsibilities for children. They can face challenges in day-to-day life. To manage all the obstacles coming in their path, children need to develop good problem solving skills to believe in themselves and move forward in life with confidence and optimism.

Discovering Problem Solving Skills.

Children develop problem solving skills at a very young age. It begins when they start to fix their broken toys while using the hit and trial method. Problem solving involves defining a problem, figuring out its root cause, identifying, ranking, and choosing potential solutions, as well as putting those solutions into action. One of the most crucial abilities children may learn is how to solve problems since it equips them to handle more difficult scholastic and social problems as they get older.

Every child learns at their own speed and has a unique set of strengths and skills. As a result, it’s important to teach them how to tackle problems and problem solving with determination and creativity. It’s also crucial to remember that not every problem calls for the same approach. Children, for instance, wouldn’t approach finishing an academic project the same way they would manage a conflict in friendship. Therefore, it’s helpful to remember that there are various types of problems and that each problem has to be managed differently. Children can learn which kind of problem solving approach will be most effective based on the situation by understanding various forms of conflict.

Why is problem solving crucial for a child’s development?

1. Improve curiosity and confidence – Children with effective problem solving abilities become innovative and independent by learning through their experiences. Also, they build confidence as it encourages them to believe in their abilities.
2. Better decision making – It helps children make rational decisions and not to be dependent on others for it.
3. Problem solving helps students do better in academics – It enables children to deal with various factors coming their way and reach their academic goals.
4. Improved social relationships – It helps children develop healthy relationships as they are capable of managing conflicts in relationships and building better social skills. Effective problem solving skills also encourage students to teamwork. It enhances collaboration and promotes new leaders.
5. Enhances critical thinking – Problem solving skills improve cognitive abilities like attention, focus and memory. Also, cause and effect are more deeply understood by students who can solve problems effectively. Hence, critical thinking skills are also improved.
6. Develops patience – Children also develop patience while solving problems effectively which helps them in taking calculated risks.
7. Builds resilience – Finally, it helps children be adaptable to change and build resilience towards difficult circumstances.

 

How parents can encourage problem solving skills?

Children look up to their parents as role models. At a very young age, they begin to observe and pick up problem solving skills from watching their parents. Parents should encourage their children to solve problems by appreciating them even when they fail. Moreover, by emphasising to children that it is a crucial aspect of life.

• Help to identify the problem – Children occasionally go to their parents when they are upset about an issue. Here, parents can actually assist their children in identifying the problem by asking appropriate questions. Children can learn to recognise problems, as well as what problems they can fix and what things are beyond their control.
• Balance between autonomy and support – Children do require parental help, but parents must remember that children often learn best from the process of trying and failing. They ought to be given the autonomy to think of a solution to a problem on their own. This will enhance both their analytical and creative thinking. Offer assistance if your child needs it to carry out their plan. But make sure to give your child as much independence as you can. They will become more self-assured and independent as a result.
• Encouragement – Encourage children to practise problem solving skills. In order to improve these abilities, parents can also use games and cognitive activities.
• Appreciate and reward their efforts – Recognise and value each effort a child makes to find a solution to a problem. Rewarding them after the process can build confidence in them and help them be motivated to continue efforts.

 

The ability to solve problems is an integral part of a child’s development. This important ability involves more than just coming up with a solution. Instead, it entails applying one’s creative abilities, exploring options, analysing various courses of action, and applying logic to tackle challenging issues.

Authorities, teachers, and counsellors collaborate together with the aim of developing problem-solving skills, communication skills creativity, and teamwork, in students as well as preparing students for the future.

 

North Shore Coaching College Problem Solving Platform