Dealing with new challenges is never easy, especially for children who may be facing life challenges for the first time. Here are some tips to help children develop the skills they need to problem solve on their own.

When your children complain that they are bored, do you start looking for activities for them? If they tell you they are having problems in school, do you feel the need to jump in and resolve the issue for them? Unless the situation poses an immediate threat to the children’s safety, a better approach is to sit down and have a conversation with them. Ask the children to describe the problem, get them to explain their thoughts and emotions. Also, do not forget to ask them to think of how they can make the situation better. You will be surprised at the inventiveness of children when it comes to problem solving. The role you need to play is one that acknowledges their feelings and provide the guidance and support that they seek.

Trust your children and do not be too eager to intervene on their behalf. Of course we know every child is different and they will not all act the same way. If you want to learn more about helping your children develop habits of self-efficacy, contact our academic director for a consultation session.