Want your little ones to be good critical thinkers? It’s the smart thing to do, for sure. The better they are able to evaluate information, the more sensible their decisions will be, and the better their grades will be too. But how exactly do you teach critical thinking without boring them to death?
1. Crossword Puzzles: Words That Make You Go Hmm
Kick things off with good old-fashioned crossword puzzles. They’re not just for Sunday morning coffee time anymore.
These wordy puzzles are actually treasure troves of critical thinking. They push your kids to think about words, their meanings, and how they fit together just right. Like a linguistic Tetris game, your children will be challenged even if they do have to use the word unscrambler from time to time.
Plus, watching your eight-year-old shout “Aha!” as they complete a tricky puzzle? Priceless.
2. Storytelling Games: Spin a Yarn
Next up, try storytelling games. You can find these in board game form or make up your own. Use the story rope kit to help build the process.
The goal is to create a story piece by piece, but here’s the twist—each person can only contribute a small part before the next person takes over. This not only cultivates creativity but also encourages logical thinking as they figure out how to connect the narrative dots. Who knew bedtime stories could be a boot camp for brainiacs?
3. Mystery Boxes: Guess What?
Create a mystery box by placing various objects inside a container that kids can’t see into. Have them reach in and figure out what’s inside just by touching. This sensory game enhances tactile skills and critical thinking as they deduce the mysteries within. It’s like their own little detective novel, but more hands-on.
4. Riddle Me This
Introduce them to the world of riddles. Riddles require kids to look at problems from different angles and think outside the box.
Start with simple ones, and as they get the hang of it, gradually increase the difficulty. It’s a brain exercise that feels more like a game of wits. Who doesn’t love outsmarting a grown-up? 😉
5. Building Blocks and LEGO Challenges
Dump a pile of LEGO or building blocks in front of them and issue a challenge. Can they build a bridge that supports weight? A model of their dream house?
Building tasks help with problem-solving, engineering thinking, and patience (lots of patience). Plus, you get new things to display on the mantle that are conversation starters — like having a LEGO toilet next to the family photos.
6. Board Games That Mean Business
There are countless board games out there that promote critical thinking. Games like “Settlers of Catan” or “Ticket to Ride” require strategic thinking and planning ahead. Not to mention, they require a little bit of cunning to trade and claim routes before opponents do. Game night just got a lot more interesting.
7. Cooking Concoctions: Chef’s Challenge
Yes, cooking! Have your kids help you with a recipe and challenge them to modify it.
What happens if we change this spice? What if we have to substitute one ingredient? Cooking involves chemistry, math, and creativity, which are all critical thinking skills.
Bonus: You get a helper in the kitchen, or at least a very enthusiastic taste tester. Never thought you could have fun and make your kids future thinkers at the same time, did you?
