Problem Solving

The ability to find a solution to a situation or challenge 

This skill focuses on how to solve problems, recognising that while part of Problem Solving is  technical know-how and experience, there are also transferrable tools that individuals can  develop and use. 

The first steps focus on being able to follow instructions to complete tasks, seeking help and  extra information if needed. The next stage focuses on being able to explore problems by  creating and assessing different potential solutions. This includes more complex problems,  without a simple technical solution. 

Suggested activities to try at home to build the skill of Problem Solving: 

For younger children 

Play a simple board game. Read out the instructions to set up and then to play the game,  one step at a time.  

Follow a simple recipe. Read out, find and measure ingredients needed together.  Talk  through the recipe, following the instructions one step at a time. 

For older children 

Consider the problem: A village has a river flowing through it. Villagers need a bridge  to get across the river. Draw a sketch of a bridge design. Use junk-modelling to build a  model of the bridge. 

Consider the problem: How can we improve the environment? Research to find out  more about this problem. Create 3 solutions you could do at home or locally to address this  problem. Write or sketch to show how your proposed solutions might help solve the problem,  then share this with your household.