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Problem Solving with Children
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This lesson takes a step-by-step approach to helping children learn to solve their own problems. Topics include recognizing emotions, identifying methods for dealing with conflict, and techniques to use with children as they develop socially and emotionally. (2 hours)
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Lesson objectives
- Understand why it is important for children to develop their social and emotional skills.
- Describe ways to help children recognize how others are feeling.
- List three things that a child care practitioner can do to begin teaching children how to problem solve with others in proactive ways.
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Why is Problem Solving Important in Child Development?
- Skills Spotlight
All students can learn how to become adept problem solvers! Discover why problem solving is so important in child development.
Children develop problem-solving skills at different rates; nevertheless, it is imperative that children learn to tackle problems with grit and creativity, especially as they learn to cope with setbacks or resolve conflict. Moreover, problem solving is one of the most important skills children can develop, because it prepares them to face increasingly complex academic and interpersonal issues as they mature.
Experts agree that the ability to meet challenges confidently is “a critical skill for school readiness.” In many cases, children learn by watching parents or caregivers solve problems.
This article will explore three benefits of learning problem-solving skills at school:
Improved Academic Performance
Increased Confidence
Career Readiness
The earlier children begin solving problems, the more ready they are to deal with bigger challenges as they mature.
By introducing problem solving skills in the classroom, children learn to think in terms of manageable steps as they:
1. Identify Problems
2. Brainstorm Possible Solutions
3. Test Appropriate Solutions
4. Analyze Results
By viewing problems as opportunities to grow, children broaden their understanding while building confidence.
The classroom is a safe, controlled environment, with experienced teachers who direct students as they hone problem-solving skills.
Good schools know that problem solving is important in child development. Therefore, we incorporate problem-solving exercises into a wide range of classes. Marlborough’s goal is to ignite intellectual inquiry by combining problem solving with creativity, collaboration, and communication, thereby empowering our students to become actively engaged global citizens .
We ask our middle school girls to solve various types of problems; thus, they develop flexibility. Since our students regularly practice problem solving, they dramatically improve their academic performance.
Problem-Solving Skills Improve Academic Performance
One reason that problem solving is important in child development is that it teaches discernment, helping young people distinguish what is a solvable problem.
Problem solving also develops grit, a trait that successful students routinely display.
Often, it takes an entire team to solve a problem. Since it can feel intimidating to collaborate or ask for help , the classroom is a perfect space to take risks. Together, students learn how to ask determining questions, such as:
Why is this situation so challenging?
Do I know how to address the problem?
Who can help me find a workable solution?
Students who learn how to solve problems have a deeper understanding of cause and effect. Teachers often urge students to look for patterns or make predictions. Problem-solving skills, then, boost reflective, critical thinking.
At Marlborough, we foster practical, analytical thinking through individual and collaborative school projects. Here are two middle school elective courses that show how problem-solving skills lead to academic success:
Middle School Debate teaches the art of research, deliberation, and argument. Students consider both sides of a question, discussing realistic solutions, and presenting their findings with clarity and eloquence.
Crime Scene Investigation: CSI Marlborough synthesizes biology and chemistry as students learn about forensic science. Students systematically solve problems by investigating a fictional crime, securing the crime scene, gathering detailed evidence, testing hypotheses, identifying potential suspects, then solving the case.
Problem-Solving Skills Build Confidence
Solving problems means making choices. Typically, effective problem-solving skills result in “happier, more confident, and more independent” individuals.
When children tackle problems on their own, or in a group, they become resilient. They learn to look at challenges from a fresh perspective. Therefore, they take more calculated risks.
Problem solving is important in child development because confident, capable children usually grow into confident, capable adults. <
If students practice problem solving consistently, they can develop greater situational and social awareness. Additionally, they learn to manage time and develop patience.
As students mature, problems they face become more complex:
How do I make lasting friendships?
How can I bring justice to my community?
Which career suits my abilities and interests best?
Marlborough recognizes the need for practice; no one masters problem solving overnight. Consequently, we offer a wide range of courses that teach middle school girls how to solve problems in the real world.
Here are a few middle school electives that focus on critical thinking, thus enhancing students’ confidence:
Makers’ Space 1.0 introduces middle school girls to original, school projects that they design, then create with hand and power tools.
Tinkering and Making with Technology invites girls to play with electronics + code. They learn the basics of electronics, ultimately completing an interactive and/or wearable technology project.
Drawing and Animating with Code uses text-based computer programming to teach girls to write code and create computer graphics drawings or animations.
As students develop their problem-solving skills, they learn to rely on independent, creative thinking, which enhances their sense of independence; these skills, then, prepare students for life and future careers.
Problem-Solving Skills Prepare Students for Future Careers
Children who learn how to solve problems when they are young tend to appreciate lifelong learning. They are curious, motivated, and innovative.
Employers want new hires to think imaginatively, especially since many problems that society faces today are new.
The push for school STEM programs in schools reflects this trend. For instance, coding requires students to envision a goal, then identify logical steps, and plan ahead. Coding also requires persistence, which means that students must be able to power through failure.
Notwithstanding the need for personal excellence, employers also really want team members. Taking classes that encourage group problem solving can be invaluable as students look ahead to college and careers.
As a result, our students participate in academic teams that build leadership through problem-solving activities, including these middle school elective courses:
VR and Animation is a project-based class that invites middle school girls to create a virtual reality (VR) theme park attraction with interactive artwork and digital designs.
Robotics classes allow middle school girls to design, build, program, and operate a robot. Our students also participate in the national FIRST Tech Challenge.
Marlborough is preparing girls to enter the workforce. Problem solving is important in child development because it trains young people to think independently and to collaborate. Marlborough’s graduates are ready to enter adulthood because they know how to solve problems.
Why Choose Marlborough?
Marlborough serves girls in grades 7 through 12. We are a private, college-preparatory secondary school, conveniently located in the heart of Los Angeles, California.
Our goal is to ignite intellectual inquiry and to build the problem-solving, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills that our students will need to innovate, invent, and lead in college and beyond.
If you want your daughter to become a curious, agile thinker, consider Marlborough. We will enhance your daughter’s problem-solving skills, helping her gain an academic edge as she builds confidence and prepares for the future.
Want to know more about the Marlborough experience?
Contact us today
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Problem Solving in the Moment
Problem Solving in the Moment Highlight Video
Narrator: Welcome to this short module on problem solving in the moment. This video highlights the ways that teachers can support children in learning how to use problem solving to deal with the upsets and conflicts and other social problems that may occur in a preschool classroom.
For many young children, the preschool classroom is a new social experience. They will need to learn how to share space with other children, share toys with other children, and share the teacher's attention. It can be hard. Some problems are bound to occur. Let's find out how to help children learn to problem solve.
Problem solving in the moment can be an effective way to prevent challenging behaviors, and it teaches children useful social skills. Problem solving in the moment is one of a series of in-service suites about behavior guidance. These strategies and practices help teachers create classrooms that are filled with effective and engaging interactions and environments.
That's the foundation of the National Center on Quality Teaching and Learning's House Framework for Effective Practice. The other parts of the house are use of research-based curricula and teaching practices, ongoing child assessment, and highly individualized teaching and learning. There are five steps that help teachers guide children's behavior and encourage their problem solving in the moment: Anticipate. Be close. Provide support. Create multiple solutions, and celebrate success. Let's see what these look like.
The first step is to anticipate. As teachers observe their children, they will begin to notice the times and activities where problems are likely to happen. It might be when all the children need to transition to a new activity at one time or when children have to wait their turn. Teachers anticipate and get ready to problem solve.
The second step is to be close. The teacher regularly scans the room or playground. When the teacher has a hunch that something might lead to a problem, the teacher moves toward the action. Then the teacher uses a calm voice to figure out the situation.
Next, the teacher provides support. For the children, learning to solve problems in the moment can be difficult. The teacher needs to remind children how to use words. The teacher might have pictures or signs that remind children how to solve a problem. The teacher can cue the children by saying, "I see we have a problem. What should we do?" Or, "This is a new toy, and everyone wants to play with it at the same time. That's a problem. How can we solve it?"
[Video begins]
Teacher: Uh-oh. Say, "I have a problem."
Girl: I have a problem.
Teacher: Tell her, "I'm using those."
Girl: I'm using those.
Teacher: So, what can we do to solve our problem?
Girl: We'll use something...
Teacher: Claire has an idea. You can share the bin of blocks.
Girl: Here.
Teacher: That was a good idea.
[Video ends]
Narrator: The next step is to generate multiple solutions. There are all sorts of solutions to typical preschool problems. Children can pick a number or flip a coin or use a timer or make another choice. Some teachers create solution kits, solution lists, or solution books that contain ideas for children to try.
Teacher: Do you want to look for an idea in the basket? Grab the book. See what you can come up with. Playing together. So, you would build it together. Do you want to build together, Jamy? Look it. Amy's talking to you.
Narrator: The final step is to celebrate success. Make sure that you let the children know that you appreciate their hard work in figuring out a solution. And give yourself a pat on the back. Problem solving in the moment means that you've taught the children some really important social skills.
There are five steps, so remember to think five. Use these five steps to help children be better problem solvers. These steps will also help prevent little classroom conflicts from becoming much bigger problems. Remember that learning to solve problems takes time and practice. Practice problem solving during circle time or lesson time, so that children will be better problem solvers during the rest of the day.
Thank you for listening.
This module highlighted a behavior guidance strategy that we call problem solving in the moment. Learn more in our longer module. Refer to the Tips and Tools to use problem solving in your classroom.
Teachers can use the problem solving approach of this in-service suite with children in their classrooms. It helps children resolve social problems as they arise "in the moment."
Materials for Trainers
Presentation [PPT, 82MB]
Presenter Notes [PDF, 2MB]
Learning Activity: Problem Solve [PDF, 80KB]
Learning Activity: Anticipating Problem Situations [PDF, 73KB]
Learning Activity: Brainstorming Multiple Solutions [PDF, 483KB]
Learning Activity: Celebrating Success [PDF, 100KB]
Supplemental Videos [PPTX, 130MB]
Supporting Materials
Tips for Teachers [PDF, 104KB]
Tips for Teachers: Dual Language Learners [PDF, 634KB]
Tips for Families [PDF, 297KB]
Teacher Tools [PDF, 488KB]
Tools for Supervisors [PDF, 71KB]
Helpful Resources [PDF, 87KB]
This zip file contains presentation materials including training videos and handouts. To view or use these materials without internet access, download Problem Solving in the Moment 15-minute In-service Suite in advance. Please ensure your browser is updated to the newest version available. If you have difficulty downloading this file, try using a different browser.
For more information, please contact us at ecdtl at ecetta dot info or call (toll-free) 844-261-3752.
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Resource Type: Video
Last Updated: July 29, 2021
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How to Teach Kids Problem-Solving Skills
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Amy Morin, LCSW, is the Editor-in-Chief of Verywell Mind. She's also a psychotherapist, international bestselling author and host of the The Verywell Mind Podcast.
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Ann-Louise T. Lockhart, PsyD, ABPP, is a board-certified pediatric psychologist, parent coach, author, speaker, and owner of A New Day Pediatric Psychology, PLLC.
KidStock / Blend Images / Getty Images
- Steps to Follow
- Allow Consequences
Whether your child can't find their math homework or has forgotten their lunch, good problem-solving skills are the key to helping them manage their life.
A 2010 study published in Behaviour Research and Therapy found that kids who lack problem-solving skills may be at a higher risk of depression and suicidality. Additionally, the researchers found that teaching a child problem-solving skills can improve mental health .
You can begin teaching basic problem-solving skills during preschool and help your child sharpen their skills into high school and beyond.
Why Problem-Solving Skills Matter
Kids face a variety of problems every day, ranging from academic difficulties to problems on the sports field. Yet few of them have a formula for solving those problems.
Kids who lack problem-solving skills may avoid taking action when faced with a problem.
Rather than put their energy into solving the problem, they may invest their time in avoiding the issue. That's why many kids fall behind in school or struggle to maintain friendships .
Other kids who lack problem-solving skills spring into action without recognizing their choices. A child may hit a peer who cuts in front of them in line because they are not sure what else to do.
Or, they may walk out of class when they are being teased because they can't think of any other ways to make it stop. Those impulsive choices may create even bigger problems in the long run.
The 5 Steps of Problem-Solving
Kids who feel overwhelmed or hopeless often won't attempt to address a problem. But when you give them a clear formula for solving problems, they'll feel more confident in their ability to try. Here are the steps to problem-solving:
- Identify the problem . Just stating the problem out loud can make a big difference for kids who are feeling stuck. Help your child state the problem, such as, "You don't have anyone to play with at recess," or "You aren't sure if you should take the advanced math class."
- Develop at least five possible solutions . Brainstorm possible ways to solve the problem. Emphasize that all the solutions don't necessarily need to be good ideas (at least not at this point). Help your child develop solutions if they are struggling to come up with ideas. Even a silly answer or far-fetched idea is a possible solution. The key is to help them see that with a little creativity, they can find many different potential solutions.
- Identify the pros and cons of each solution . Help your child identify potential positive and negative consequences for each potential solution they identified.
- Pick a solution. Once your child has evaluated the possible positive and negative outcomes, encourage them to pick a solution.
- Test it out . Tell them to try a solution and see what happens. If it doesn't work out, they can always try another solution from the list that they developed in step two.
Practice Solving Problems
When problems arise, don’t rush to solve your child’s problems for them. Instead, help them walk through the problem-solving steps. Offer guidance when they need assistance, but encourage them to solve problems on their own. If they are unable to come up with a solution, step in and help them think of some. But don't automatically tell them what to do.
When you encounter behavioral issues, use a problem-solving approach. Sit down together and say, "You've been having difficulty getting your homework done lately. Let's problem-solve this together." You might still need to offer a consequence for misbehavior, but make it clear that you're invested in looking for a solution so they can do better next time.
Use a problem-solving approach to help your child become more independent.
If they forgot to pack their soccer cleats for practice, ask, "What can we do to make sure this doesn't happen again?" Let them try to develop some solutions on their own.
Kids often develop creative solutions. So they might say, "I'll write a note and stick it on my door so I'll remember to pack them before I leave," or "I'll pack my bag the night before and I'll keep a checklist to remind me what needs to go in my bag."
Provide plenty of praise when your child practices their problem-solving skills.
Allow for Natural Consequences
Natural consequences may also teach problem-solving skills. So when it's appropriate, allow your child to face the natural consequences of their action. Just make sure it's safe to do so.
For example, let your teenager spend all of their money during the first 10 minutes you're at an amusement park if that's what they want. Then, let them go for the rest of the day without any spending money.
This can lead to a discussion about problem-solving to help them make a better choice next time. Consider these natural consequences as a teachable moment to help work together on problem-solving.
Becker-Weidman EG, Jacobs RH, Reinecke MA, Silva SG, March JS. Social problem-solving among adolescents treated for depression . Behav Res Ther . 2010;48(1):11-18. doi:10.1016/j.brat.2009.08.006
Pakarinen E, Kiuru N, Lerkkanen M-K, Poikkeus A-M, Ahonen T, Nurmi J-E. Instructional support predicts childrens task avoidance in kindergarten . Early Child Res Q . 2011;26(3):376-386. doi:10.1016/j.ecresq.2010.11.003
Schell A, Albers L, von Kries R, Hillenbrand C, Hennemann T. Preventing behavioral disorders via supporting social and emotional competence at preschool age . Dtsch Arztebl Int . 2015;112(39):647–654. doi:10.3238/arztebl.2015.0647
Cheng SC, She HC, Huang LY. The impact of problem-solving instruction on middle school students’ physical science learning: Interplays of knowledge, reasoning, and problem solving . EJMSTE . 2018;14(3):731-743.
Vlachou A, Stavroussi P. Promoting social inclusion: A structured intervention for enhancing interpersonal problem‐solving skills in children with mild intellectual disabilities . Support Learn . 2016;31(1):27-45. doi:10.1111/1467-9604.12112
Öğülmüş S, Kargı E. The interpersonal cognitive problem solving approach for preschoolers . Turkish J Educ . 2015;4(17347):19-28. doi:10.19128/turje.181093
American Academy of Pediatrics. What's the best way to discipline my child? .
Kashani-Vahid L, Afrooz G, Shokoohi-Yekta M, Kharrazi K, Ghobari B. Can a creative interpersonal problem solving program improve creative thinking in gifted elementary students? . Think Skills Creat . 2017;24:175-185. doi:10.1016/j.tsc.2017.02.011
Shokoohi-Yekta M, Malayeri SA. Effects of advanced parenting training on children's behavioral problems and family problem solving . Procedia Soc Behav Sci . 2015;205:676-680. doi:10.1016/j.sbspro.2015.09.106
By Amy Morin, LCSW Amy Morin, LCSW, is the Editor-in-Chief of Verywell Mind. She's also a psychotherapist, an international bestselling author of books on mental strength and host of The Verywell Mind Podcast. She delivered one of the most popular TEDx talks of all time.
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Heart-Mind Online
5-step problem solving for young children.
- Solves Problems Peacefully
Even young children can be taught to solve their problems peacefully with these 5 steps:

Step One: How do you feel? Calm down. – Often when we encounter a problem, we feel frustrated or angry. Before we can solve our problem, we need to know how we are feeling and calm down. There are different ways to calm down; we could take a break, take three deep breaths, use " milkshake breathing [ 1 ] ".
Step Two: What is the Problem? – We need to know what the problem is before we can solve it. Why do you feel angry or upset? Remember this problem belongs to you, not other people.
Step Three: Come up with Solutions – It is helpful to think of as many different solutions to the problem as possible. Not every solution will work. A solution might work one time but not another time. The more problems you solve, the easier it is to think of solutions.
Step Four: What would happen? – Think about what would happen if you chose each of the solutions you came up with. Is the solution safe? A safe solution means no one will be hurt or upset. Is the solution fair? How will everyone feel?
Step Five: Try the Solution – Choose a solution. Try your solution. Did it solve the problem? If the solution does not solve the problem, you can try one of the other solutions you came up with.
Lesson Plan: Solving Problems Peacefully
Background & learning outcomes:.
This activity [ 2 ] is written for children ages 4-6 for a child care setting, preschool, kindergarten or in the home. It can be adapted, however for other ages. By teaching children basic problem solving steps and providing opportunities for them to practice this skill, children can become competent problem solvers.
- Large paper and marker for writing solution ideas
Teaching and Learning Activities:
Introduce the topic of "problems." Ask children to share problems they have had recently. You can add your own examples of problems you have had or problems you have observed in the classroom.
Explain to the children that they can become expert problem solvers by using five problem solving steps.
Introduce and briefly explain each of the problem-solving steps.
Pick an example of a problem the children shared. Work through the problem with the children using the five problem solving steps.
Step 1: How do you feel? Calm down. Ask the children to identify how they felt or how they might feel if this problem happened to them. Ask them for suggestions to calm down. Practice ways to calm down, like taking three deep breaths.
Step 2: What is the Problem? Ask children to describe what the problem is. Help children to reframe the problem so it is defined as their problem, not someone else’s problem. For example: “I want to use the red crayon,” instead of, “they won’t share the red crayon.”
Step 3: Come up with Solutions. Encourage children think of as many solutions as possible. In the beginning, you may need to help them with solutions. Write down the possible solutions. The focus at this step is just to generate as many solutions as possible, not to evaluate solutions.
Step 4: What would happen? Ask children to think what would happen next if they chose a solution. Is the solution safe? A safe solution means no one will get hurt. Is the solution fair? How will everyone feel? Have the children go through the solutions they generated and think about what would happen next. Role playing the solutions can help children understand the possible consequences.
Step 5: Try the Solution. Have the children pick a solution to the problem. Will the problem be resolved? The chosen solution can also be role played.
Adaptations:
- Accompanying each step with a visual cue is helpful, particularly for children with limited verbal skills.
- Depending on the age and attention span of the children, practicing the problem-solving steps using an example problem can be split into different lessons. Start by introducing the five steps in the first lesson, then in each subsequent lesson, practice one step.
- Role play different solutions to problems with children to help them understand the consequences of solutions.
Follow-Up Activities:
Once children have been taught these five steps to problem solving, they need opportunities to practice using them. These follow-up activities reinforce the problem-solving steps and provide practice opportunities:
Post visuals of the problem-solving steps in the room where they are visible for children to refer to on an ongoing basis.
Return to the problem solving steps regularly. Have the children provide other examples of problems they have encountered or create hypothetical problems that are relevant to their lives. Work through these problems as a class, using the problem solving steps.
When problems arise in the classroom, remind children to use their problem solving steps and guide them through the process. As they become more competent problem solvers, they will require less assistance to work through the steps.
Role model effective problem solving for your child.
Select children’s books where the characters encounter a problem. Ask the children how the character in the story could solve their problem. Encourage a variety of solutions. Have the children act out the problem and possible solutions. Book examples include:
A Good Day (2007) by Kevin Henkes. Bird, Fox, Dog, and Squirrel are not starting their day off very well. However, with a little patience, they find that they are able to overcome minor setbacks in order to have a very good day after all. Ages 0-6.
Bobby vs. Girls (accidentally) (2009) by Lisa Yee. Bobby and Holly have been best friends for years, until a disagreement threatens to break them up for good. However, when their argument accidentally sparks a full-out war between the boys and girls in their fourth-grade class, they must come up with a way to return things to normal. Ages 6-12.
- Conflict Resolution
- Self-Regulation
- Early Years
- Middle Years
Learn more about "milkshake breathing" and ways to teach children this and other important calming skills.
Adapted from: Joseph, G.E. & Strain, P.S. (2010). Teaching Young Children Interpersonal Problem-Solving Skills. Young Exceptional Children, 13, 28-40.

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3 fun ways to practice problem solving, play and learn together at home..

Opportunities for learning are around every corner – even in your own home. Playing together is a great way to discover new things and build key skills. Our friends at the LEGO Foundation launched PLAYLIST – a collection of fun learning activities for families – and we're delighted to share a few with you. Give them a try with your little one to work on problem solving. Who knew learning could be so much fun?!
Build a road through your house...with books! This fun activity will develop motor, creative and problem-solving skills.
You will need: As many books as you can find. A toy car, or maybe a ball. Why not build a car using LEGO bricks?
1. Start putting paperbacks on the floor to build a road through your house.
2. Hardback books are great for things that need to stay upright. Maybe you could use them for building tunnels and bridges.
3. Let the books drive your imagination! Build a house with a roof and add a hill or a roundabout.
4. It's your world, so get creative!
Explore and paint using wind power. This wind power game is a great activity for understanding movement and space through sensory skills.
You will need: LEGO bricks, dried leaves, pieces of card and paper, tubes (or straws) of different sizes, paint and stones or other small objects.
1. First, let's think and talk about the wind before using its power. Can you see it? Taste it? How does it feel on your hair, or your skin?
2. Take a piece of card or a leaf, close your eyes and blow it using wind power.
3. Now we can see how the wind works on heavier things. Try blowing heavier objects like LEGO bricks or stones to see what happens.
4. Time to make a wind print. It's easy! Just use a straw to blow paint across paper. You can even trace the shape of objects by blowing the paint round them.
Paper planes
Can you build a plane that flies? Try this fun paper plane game which helps you learn how to solve problems by testing ideas, practice concentrating and get better at handling frustrations. You can make the paper plane game even trickier by adding weights to your plane.
You will need: Paper of different sizes, colours and thicknesses, scissors, pens and sticky tape.
1. Each player takes a piece of paper. Have a think about what would make a great plane. You can discuss it between you.
2. Either individually or in teams, build your paper plane and watch it fly.
3. How did it do? Try a different design and see if goes any further.
4. You can decorate your plane if you want to, or even give it a name.
5. When everyone is happy with their plane, have a competition. Whose plane can fly the furthest? Whose can do tricks? Whose looks the best?
For even more ways to play, visit the PLAYLIST from our friends at The LEGO Foundation .
More to explore
The playbox.
Supercharge your child's learning through the power of play
Playtime, anytime!
Turn everyday routines into fun playful moments for learning and brain development
What is free play and why should you encourage it at home?
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A Harvard professor's tips on how to boost your baby's brain development

Children who say "no" to everything you say need to be given boundaries for proper behavior in your home care environment. Many experienced child day care providers provide such children with a choice that gives the child a certain degree of freedom and control over his or her environment, though choices that stay within the boundaries of acceptable behavior and scheduling offered by the care provider.
Children who hit, pinch or push others should receive gentle reprimands followed by an explanation of why such behavior is unacceptable. If the child continues with such behavior, it is suggested that he or she be placed in "timeout", or be asked to play separately from others unless the child agrees to limit such behavior. If that method doesn't work, it is suggested that the day care provider discuss the issue with parents to determine a solution.
Studies have shown that positive reinforcement, encouragement, and plenty of love and affection help to minimize temper tantrums and unacceptable behaviors. This is not to say that your best efforts are going to prevent disagreements or fights over toys, or is able to prevent Sally from whining incessantly because she's not allowed to watch her favorite cartoon. However, patient caregivers are aware of various techniques that may help to reduce such issues.
For example, if two children want to play with the same toy, a childcare provider might offer each individual a fair amount of time alone with the toy. For example, Jake can have the truck for 15 minutes, and then he has to give it to David to play with for 15 minutes. Depending on their age, the caregiver may even broach the question of how to deal with the issue to the children themselves.
Children required to be away from home for long periods of time may grow fussy, frustrated, and angry. Let them know that you care, but do not allow them to take their frustrations out on others. This can be done with firm reprimands followed by kindness or signs of affection to let them know that you understand their feelings.
For more serious breaches of behavior, the "timeout" chair is appropriate for most age groups. However, extended periods of sit time are not effective for most age groups. A rule of thumb to follow is that a three-year-old sits in the chair for three minutes, a four-year-old for four minutes, and so on.
In addition, childcare providers are cautioned to provide 'alerts' or 'warnings' when one activity needs to be changed for another. For example, a schedule that requires the children cease playing in self-directed or free play in order to eat lunch or take a nap necessitates the childcare provider to give the children warning ahead of time that activities are changing soon. For example, say, "Okay, in ten minutes, we have to stop finger-painting so that we can eat lunch…"will give children an adequate amount of time to transition from one activity focus to another. This will also help to alleviate negative behaviors and outright refusals.
Some day care providers are asked to care for handicapped children who have special needs. For other daycare providers, the constant barrage of individual parent requests may often be overwhelming.
When it comes to dealing with such issues, day care providers must often bite their tongue and maintain a professional attitude, which includes being courteous and respectful, regardless of how picky, demanding or angry a parent might be. However, day care providers must also be able to stand firm regarding the rules of business regarding scheduling fees, hours, sick policies, and pickup times.
Communicate with parents on a daily or weekly basis. If you start to notice a trend of one parent picking up their child later and later every day, mention it before it gets out of hand. Relate your concerns and issues with a parent without threatening or insulting them. Many parents make the mistake of believing you are merely, "a babysitter". It is up to you to correct this attitude by assuring parents that you are performing and offering a valuable service, much like any service provider in the community, and that your schedule needs to be abided by.
If parents continually ignore your concerns or are chronically late in picking up their children or paying you for services, it is often necessary to terminate your relationship with these parents. Remember, you're not only doing them a favor, you're in business for yourself. It doesn't matter whether you are providing day care, nursing care, or plumbing services, a business is established to provide service or products to others and bills must be paid on time and office hours abided by.
The great majority of home daycare providers are young women with children of their own who have supportive spouses. Of course, there are some women who provide day care who aren't married, or who may be older with grown children who have since moved out of the home. However, most day care providers have husbands and small children who must be consulted about changes that may occur or expectations that may be required prior to opening a home daycare business.
Children of daycare providers often feel jealous, ignored, and overwhelmed by the sudden activity and demands on his or her mother. They often become irritable, tense, and develop negative behaviors in a bid for extra attention. Husbands may grow inpatient and dissatisfied with the demands placed on a spouse to provide childcare after work hours, weekends, and holidays.
Before initiating any child care business, it is essential that not only the child care provider knows what she is getting into, but that friends, spouses and children know and understand regarding the changes that can be expected with such a decision. Often, all it takes is an adjustment period that may last from a couple of weeks to a couple of months before additional family members have had an opportunity to adapt to the new environment. However, there are some cases in which spouses and children of a care provider are unable to or refuse to adapt to the new situation, which may doom your childcare business hopes.
To prevent such scenarios, it is suggested that child care providers and their spouses and children visit local day care centers around the neighborhood to gain some sense of a new and possible changes in environment in their own home. Potential childcare providers are also encouraged to ask questions about concerns or worries that may affect every member of a family.
If your business is growing, you may realize that you can't provide all of the necessary care on your own. At this point, you may need to hire an assistant or a partner. Help may be found through newspaper ads or through child care agencies, depending on individual need. Finding someone who is trained and able to share the responsibilities of your business requires careful interviewing and screening processes. Most of all, it requires patience.
Local or community childcare support groups are also available in many states, and may be found through your local Chambers of Commerce, Department of Social Services or telephone books. Whenever possible, it is suggested that child care providers join support groups and networks in order to gain exposure and experience with a wide range of individuals and small home-based businesses, who may be able to help clarify issues, questions, or concerns.
Networks and support groups are also be able to offer information and guidance on activities to do with children of multiple age groups, as well as guidance for such topics as self-esteem, development, and behavior issues. Several such organizations and associations may include but are not limited to the following:
Of course, there are many more out there, including the National Fire Protection Association, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, the National Association of Childcare Resource and Referral Agencies and so on.
Childcare providers are also encouraged to visit the state childcare websites that may often be accessed through the Departments of Child Services or asking for specific information from the National Child Care Information Center.

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Why problem-solving is important
As parents, the way you manage problems or disagreements in your relationship affects your children.
By managing problems positively and constructively, you help your children develop well and thrive. When children see you behaving and communicating with your partner in this way, children learn to behave this way too. It can teach them important skills for life.
When you and your partner find solutions together, you help the whole family have happier, healthier and stronger relationships. And you help to protect your children from the downsides of conflict.
This is because a problem-solving approach can help you and your partner to:
- confront issues, rather than avoiding them
- talk and listen respectfully and patiently
- find solutions that you’re both happy with
- feel like you’re working as a team.
Ground rules for problem-solving
Before you start problem-solving, it’s a good idea to set some ground rules. It’s also important for you and your partner to come up with these rules together.
Here are suggestions for problem-solving ground rules to get you started:
- Either person can raise a problem for discussion at any time.
- Either person can say ‘no’ if they don’t want to talk about it right then, but agree to make another time soon to discuss it – no more than 1-2 days after it first comes up.
- If the discussion gets heated, either person can call for a ‘break’ to calm down.
- Raise problems at a good time and place. For example, do it when the children aren’t around, when there’s enough time to discuss the issue, when there are no other competing demands like making dinner, and when you’re both calm.
- Try to actively listen so you both understand what the other person is saying.
- Agree that you won’t raise conflict topics or show disrespect in front of other people and your children.
- Keep in mind that if one of you has a problem, it’s likely to affect both of you.
Problem-solving: how to do it
Positive problem-solving has six basic steps:
- Define the problem.
- Clarify what you each want.
- Brainstorm solutions.
- Evaluate solutions and choose one.
- Try the solution.
- Review the solution.
1. Define the problem
Be clear and specific about the problem:
- Describe what’s happening, how often it’s happening, and who’s involved. For example, ‘In the past three weeks, I’ve noticed we’ve argued a lot more than usual’.
- Focus on the issue, not the person. For example, ‘We’re always doing chores or taking the children to sport, and we haven’t been able to relax together. I think it’s affecting our relationship’.
- Acknowledge your role or contribution to the problem. For example, ‘I know I started a few of those arguments’.
- Describe the problem with a neutral, non-blaming approach. You could try phrasing the issue as a question. For example, ‘I’m worried that we haven’t had time for each other lately. Can we talk about how we can spend some time together?’
2. Clarify what you each want
Be clear about what’s important to each of you. Asking questions can help you clarify things. For example:
- Why is that so important?
- Why do you want/need that?
- Why are you concerned/worried/afraid about that?
- Why don’t you want/need that?
- What would be so awful about that?
Your goal is to have a clear understanding of what you both want. Be patient and focus on listening to each other’s answers.
3. Brainstorm solutions
Write down any and all possible solutions:
- Take turns to suggest ideas.
- Try to get as many ideas as you can, even if some don’t seem relevant. Aim for at least 8-10 ideas.
- Include all ideas. Rejecting ideas can hurt each other’s feelings and stop you from sharing your ideas.
- Wait until you’ve got all your ideas down before you talk about them.
4. Evaluate solutions and choose one
Narrow down your brainstorming list to one practical option that can solve your problem:
- Cross off ideas you both agree won’t work.
- If one of you thinks an idea might work, leave it on the list.
- List the advantages and disadvantages for each idea you have left on the list. Look at the advantages first – try to find something positive about every idea.
- Keep discussions brief so you have enough time to discuss all ideas left on the list.
- Cross off any ideas that clearly have more disadvantages than advantages.
- Rate the remaining options from 1 (not very good) to 10 (very good).
- Choose a solution that you and your partner agree to try – it might not be your preferred solution but it should be one that you’re comfortable with.
If you can’t find a solution , repeat the brainstorming step and try to come up with different ideas.
If you need some new ideas, you could ask trusted friends or family. But first check with your partner if they’re OK with this. Your partner might prefer to keep some of your problems private.
If this still doesn’t work , you could both agree to trying your choice of solution this time and your partner’s choice next time.
5. Try the solution
Make a commitment to the solution by agreeing on the following:
- Who will do what, when and where?
- What will happen if we don’t do the things we’ve agreed on?
- Do we need to keep track of how well our solution is working?
- When will we review how the solution is going?
If your solution is related to your children, consider getting them involved in trying the solution, if it’s appropriate.
6. Review the solution
After a set time, look at your solution and talk about how it’s going. You could ask questions like:
- Is the solution working?
- What has worked well? What hasn’t worked?
- What could we do to make things work more smoothly?
If the solution is working, you’ll both notice that the problem is going away. If it isn’t, ask yourselves these questions:
- Was the solution reasonable?
- Did we both give and take?
- Were rules and responsibilities clear to both of us?
- Were consequences for breaking the agreement used, and were they appropriate?
- Have other issues come up that we need to talk about before our solution will work?
You might find that you need to start the problem-solving process again to find a better solution.
It’s natural to have some ups and downs along the way – set a realistic time frame to try the solution.
And remember to encourage and support each other as you try to solve the problem. For example, ‘I’m glad we’re trying to work on this together’ or ‘It helps when we talk things through. Thanks’.
Your goal is to do things differently and work on compromise. With patience, effort and support for each other, you can find a way to solve your relationship problems.
Getting help with problems in your relationship
If working on problems makes you or your partner very upset or angry, it might help to speak to a relationship counsellor. Relationship counsellors can help you identify what’s causing conflict between you and help you come up with practical solutions. You could try the following options:
- Call Relationships Australia in your state or territory on 1300 364 277 .
- Call Family Relationships Online on 1800 050 321 .
- See your GP to talk things through and get a referral to a psychologist or relationship or family counselling service.
- Find a psychologist or counselling service through the Australian Psychology Society , Australian Counselling Association or Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia .
It’s good if you and your partner can see a counsellor together. But if your partner doesn’t want to go, it’s still worth seeking help by yourself.
Family violence is not OK. If you’re in a relationship that involves family violence, call the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
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5 daycare problems solved
By Tracy Chappell

You’ve found a wonderful daycare . The care providers are friendly and knowledgeable, their goals and values match your own, and your child is happily settled in. It’s perfect.
Well, almost perfect. At pickup one day, you see something that gives you pause. Are those Froot Loops in the trail mix? Or maybe their toilet-training techniques aren’t quite in sync with yours. Sometimes it takes a little intervention on your part to make a good daycare situation great. Here are tips on tackling five common concerns.
1. Food friction The good news is that nutrition is a priority in today’s licenced daycares, thanks to government mandates and a societal shift toward healthier eating. Centres are required to provide healthy options and cover the four food groups, with many menus approved by dietitians. If you’re concerned that what looks healthy on paper doesn’t meet your real-life standards, speak to the supervisor and ask to see the recipes . Most centres offer choices, and you can ask that your child skip something, such as juice or a processed food.
Licenced home care providers are required to follow similar regulations as daycare centres, with monitoring by their home care agency. If you have a concern about a snack, say, speak to your provider; the agency can also help you work with the provider to come up with a solution, says Annett Holeschek, manager of daycare operations at the Ontario home care agency Wee Watch.
Unlicenced home care providers are not subject to supervision. While most do a great job, there is typically only one person planning the menu. So if you’re unhappy with the menu, it’s your job to ask for changes.
Some parents are skilled at tactfully approaching touchy topics, while others worry about offending the care provider and end up just letting things go. Holeschek says it’s all about finding the right time and the right words.
“Some people can handle a bit of criticism easily and others might get defensive,” she says. “Book an appointment or ask if it’s OK to pick up your child a little early one day so you can have a few minutes to talk about what your child wants to eat. That way, you have time, and she knows to expect the conversation.”
Holeschek continues: “Start out by explaining what your child likes to eat at home or give suggestions for things you’d like to see on the menu.” If your care provider doesn’t post the menu, tell her it would be great to know what your child is eating during the day so you can better plan meals. “You’re leaving it open, making it conversational,” says Holeschek. “Sometimes, a provider just needs to see where a parent is coming from.”
Ange Schellenberg, who runs a home daycare in Morris, Man., says parents have options — they just have to ask. “I would consider changing something on the menu if a parent didn’t like what I was serving,” she says. “If their suggestion was something that wouldn’t work with the other kids, I’d tell them they’re free to bring a snack for their child that day.”
2. Potty pressure Your child is newly diaper-free at home (hurray!). She’s comfortable on the potty and almost always makes it there on time. However, her care provider isn’t quite as enthusiastic about her readiness for big-girl pants and you’re frustrated to find her in a diaper when you pick her up. Again.
Or maybe the opposite is true. Your child’s care provider excitedly reports that your son loves sitting on the potty and just peed in it for the first time! You know you should be happy, but you have a new baby due in a month — or you’ve just started packing for a move — and can’t devote the energy necessary for training right now.
What’s a parent to do?
“It’s really important parents remember it’s their child and they make the decisions,” says Jennifer McDonald, program supervisor of the Ingersoll (Ont.) Children’s Centre. She explains that daycares will discuss their toilet-training procedures at registration. Some encourage parents to initiate training at home, where the child is most comfortable. At McDonald’s centre, toddlers sit on the potty at each diaper change. “But even then, it’s the parents’ decision when they want their child out of that diaper.”
Your child’s daycare should be your best ally in the great toilet-training adventure, but be aware that some kids are motivated by the group dynamic at daycare, while others happily sit on the potty at home, but refuse in a group setting. Share what you’re seeing in your child and listen to what the care provider has witnessed so you can devise a strategy together.
While some older children may need extra encouragement, there should be no pressure on the child from either side. When and how to train your child is ultimately your choice, so if you’re feeling pressured by staff, go to the supervisor immediately. And although a daycare should follow your wishes, be sure that they are realistic and in the best interests of your child.
“There is no way you can push a child into toilet training. No way,” says McDonald. “It’s a very natural process and it should be a fun thing to learn.”
3. No more nap? Your child is out of bed for the sixth time tonight, his usual eight o’clock bedtime come and long gone. On weekends, you’ve been eliminating his afternoon nap , riding out the grouchy period, and getting him to bed on time. But he’s still napping at daycare and his weekday bedtime is starting to rival yours. Can you ask daycare to nix the nap?
“Absolutely,” says McDonald. “It’s very hard to keep a child awake if he wants to sleep, but if a parent asked me not to let a child nap because he’s going to bed too late, I would do my best. He would still have quiet time in his bed with his blanket and some special toys , but a staff member would gently interact with him now and then to keep him awake.”
You could also suggest adjusting your child’s nap, rather than eliminating it altogether, which can make all the difference, according to Schellenberg. “I cared for a three-year-old who was napping for two hours and up really late in the evenings,” she says. “We played around with the timing and found that a 50-minute nap works perfectly for all of us. Many kids still do need to sleep in the day, so it’s best to cut back the nap very gradually until you find what works.”
Let the care provider know if there are special circumstances (maybe your child had a late night), so exceptions can be made.
4. “Mommy, Sarah bit me!” Your child’s care provider intercepts you at pickup. Your panic button goes off, but she is calm when she explains that your child was bitten. Biting happens at daycare, it’s just a fact. But that doesn’t make it any less shocking when you see teeth marks on your little one.
Biting is a tough issue for care providers; it’s a phase many kids go through as they struggle to communicate, and it’s almost impossible to stop ahead of time. But there are steps care providers can take.
“I’d work very hard to find out why the biting happened,” says McDonald, who explains that any biting incident is noted and discussed with the parents of both children that day (however, a daycare won’t tell you which child bit yours). “Is it because the child doesn’t have the words or the understanding, or is there another problem? The staff shadows a child who is a biter and tries to redirect him to another activity before it happens. By watching closely, they might discover that the issue is as small as two kids wanting the same toy, so they’d provide two of that toy.”
If you happen to see evidence of a bite, or other aggressive behaviour , report it to the daycare and make sure that steps are being taken to try to prevent repeat offences. Also, if your child has bitten a playmate or sibling, let the care providers know. Biting is a phase that most kids just have to outgrow.
5. Daily dish Is your child learning to print? Growing a bean plant? Helping younger kids get their coats zipped up? Unfortunately, our children aren’t often the best source of information on how they have spent their day. Daily written reports on infants are standard, but once kids move beyond diapers, many daycares offer only verbal reporting. When pickup and drop-off are rushed, or if your child’s primary caregiver is already gone when you arrive, you may never find time for conversations about your child’s accomplishments, friendships or his favourite things to do.
There are, however, lots of communication methods that you can suggest, including periodic written reports to track your child’s progress, monthly calendars outlining themes and activities , or short daily or weekly forms with information on small details or big accomplishments. Some daycares keep logs of each child’s day, so that any teacher present at pickup can answer your questions. “It helps the more things are visual, without you having to ask,” says Holeschek, suggesting that daycares use bulletin boards to post photos, artwork, menus and notices.
Schedule phone chats or face-to-face meetings to discuss goals and concerns, so that these important conversations aren’t always happening on the fly. Use email to communicate messages (but not to discuss problems, as tone can be easily misinterpreted). Making time for these conversations is essential. You know your child best, and your care provider will benefit from your guidance as much as you value hers.
Speak up — you won’t be sorry Many parents feel intimidated to approach care providers with problems for fear they—or their child—may be seen in a negative light. The key is to think of it as a conversation, not a confrontation.
“Get comfortable dealing with things on a consistent basis, instead of thinking that something will just improve over time,” says Annett Holeschek, manager of daycare operations at the Ontario home care agency Wee Watch. “Start with little things. Ask how they deal with a certain situation, so you can be consistent at home. Make suggestions about what works for you that they may want to try. Then, the next week, ask if there’s been any progress, or if they have other ideas. The more you talk, the easier it is to bring up something down the line. If you can communicate every day, a little problem remains little and is dealt with, instead of a whole bunch of things building up and becoming a big problem.”
This article was originally published on August 2009.
Read more: How to find a pay for childcare> 10 things you daycare may not tell you> Daycare germs: What you need to know>
Addressing the Child Care Crisis
In the U.S., many parents who are employed outside the home need care for their children while they work. Even before the pandemic began, the U.S. was facing a child care crisis. There are not enough licensed child care programs available for parents who need care for their children, particularly infants and toddlers.
Class description
And for parents who can find openings in licensed child care programs, the financial cost of such programs is frequently too high. At the same time, child care businesses operate at extremely thin margins and struggle to stay in business due to a combination of factors, including rising operational costs and challenges finding qualified staff. In this class, multidisciplinary student teams will hear from leading child care experts, and they will incorporate insights from law, social work, policy, business, and other fields. Using problem-solving tools, students will examine systems that contribute to this problem, and at the conclusion of the course, students will present identified solutions to key stakeholders who can implement reforms.
- Meeting Time : Wednesdays 3:15-6:30 p.m.
- Instructors : Tifani Sadek ( Law ), Annette Sobocinski ( Law )
- Credits : 3.0
Instructors

Tifani Sadek

Annette Sobocinski

eXtension Alliance for Better Child Care
Ways Child Care Providers Can Teach Young Children to Resolve Conflicts

Many preschoolers have problems sharing, taking turns, and negotiating roles when they play together. These day-to-day conflicts are great opportunities for child care providers to help 3- to 5-year-olds practice the skills needed to resolve disagreements. Even the youngest preschoolers can learn the basics of conflict resolution with appropriate help and guidance from supportive child care providers.
Benefits of Teaching Conflict Resolution to Young Children
Learning to handle conflicts in productive ways is an important social skill that children will use throughout their lives. When child care providers help preschoolers practice resolving conflicts, they become more sensitive to the needs and feelings of others. Children also develop self-confidence when they learn how to solve their problems in a positive and assertive way. Conflict resolution involves good communication, real listening, and searching for solutions that children can agree to. This kind of problem solving teaches children how to think creatively and to evaluate solutions.
Steps in Resolving Conflicts
Child care providers can begin teaching children to negotiate and solve disagreements by guiding them through some simple steps. Remember that children need repeated practice to resolve conflicts. Child care providers will need to lead children through the steps at first. With repeated practice, preschoolers and school-age children can learn to work through these steps by themselves.
- Find a quiet place to talk. Before helping children resolve the conflict, child care providers need to remove children from the place where the conflict occurred. Find a quiet place in the room where everyone can sit and discuss the situation without interruptions.
- Everyone gets a say.
- Everyone listens without interrupting.
- Everyone gets to propose a solution.
- All solutions must be discussed.
- The group must choose the best solution together.
- Give each person a say . Go around the circle and ask each child to tell her side of the story. Use questions like “Amy, what happened?” and “Beth, what happened?” to allow each child to share. Remind children to listen without interrupting. Be sure everyone has the chance to speak about the problem.
- State the problem clearly . Based on the information that all children shared, summarize the problem in a few words. You might say something like, “Amy and Beth, it sounds like you both want to be the mother in dramatic play. Is that right?”
- Ask each person to suggest a solution . Go around the circle again and ask each person, “What do you think we should do to solve this problem?” Again, remind children to listen without interrupting. Encourage each child to suggest a solution, even if the suggestion is the same as the one proposed by another child.
- Help the group choose a solution . Guide the children in discussing the pros and cons of each solution. Ask them to think about how they would feel about that solution, and encourage them to consider how the solution would affect others as well as themselves. For example, you might say, “Amy has suggested that both of you get to be the mother and take care of your own babies. Beth, how would you feel about that solution? Are there any problems with this idea?”
- Put the solution into effect . Congratulate the children on coming up with a solution together. Go with the children as they begin trying out their solution. Remind them of the agreement if children are not following the solution chosen.
- Observe and check in if needed . Watch the children interact for a little while. Watch the ways that they are playing together, and pay attention to any problems that still seem to be happening. If the solution is not working, or children are unhappy with the solution, bring the group back together to renegotiate a better solution.
With time and repeated practice, preschoolers can learn to use these steps to solve problems without the help of their child care provider. Resolving conflicts helps children learn valuable communication skills and can encourage them to be more accepting of different points of view.
For More Information
Remember that guiding children’s behavior is an ongoing process. For more information, check out the eXtension Alliance for Better Child Care section on Guidance and Discipline in Child Care . Specific articles that may be of interest include the following:
- Encouragement Is More Effective Than Praise in Guiding Children’s Behavior
- Helping Children in Child Care Handle Anger
- Ways Child Care Providers Can Teach Preschoolers Self-Control
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Child Care Resume Skills [40+ Examples]

This list of child care resume skills will help you write a resume that impresses the hiring manager at a great daycare or preschool.

Want to make your child care resume stand out? Here are the top child care skills for your resume:
1. Child development knowledge
If you’ve studied the fundamentals of child development, say so on your resume.
For instance, if your target job requirements include recognizing developmental milestones, show employers that you’re familiar with common theories like the Montessori method .
You can also describe how you’ve used your child development knowledge to:
- help children develop with age-appropriate activities like putting together puzzles
- keep accurate records of a child’s progress
- identify any developmental concerns — physical or social — so they can be addressed early on
- keep up-to-date with the latest in developmental research
As a child care worker, you have to understand children’s needs, give them support, and help them to express their feelings.
Emphasize the following child care resume skills to highlight your empathy:
- Conflict management
- Cultural sensitivity
- Active listening
- Emotional awareness
- Calm and gentle demeanor
3. Infant care skills
Parents are wary of leaving their newborns with others. So show the hiring manager at the daycare or preschool you’re applying to that you have expertise in infant care.
Prove you’re equipped to care for infants by listing relevant certifications on your resume , along with other hard skills like:
- infant CPR/AED certification
- taking infants’ temperature, and vitals
- routine hygiene and feeding
- soothing techniques (like swaddling)
- knowledge of safe-sleeping protocols
4. Interpersonal skills
When you work in child care, you regularly interact with people, including:
You’ll interact with children in an age-appropriate way, establishing clear rules but also knowing how to have fun.
You’ll give parents regular updates on their children.
If you work at a daycare or school, you’ll communicate and coordinate with other child care workers.
Show that you’re a good communicator on your resume by listing interpersonal skills like:
- a good sense of humor
- leadership skills
- sensitivity and compassion
- communication skills
- respect and professionalism
5. Energy and focus
Children have tons of energy, so you’ll spend most of the workday on your feet when you work in child care. Tasks like carrying infants or chasing toddlers are physically exhausting.
Child care also requires good mental focus. Accidents can happen anytime, so you’ll need to be on high alert even when you’re tired.
Show that you’re an energetic, focused person by adding these skills to your child care resume:
- Physical fitness
- Self-control
- Ability to monitor multiple children at one time
6. Teaching skills
Impress employers by showing how you can help educate kids.
Include skills like:
- sourcing age-appropriate toys or materials
- designing interactive learning activities
- encouraging children to explore their curiosity
- preparing children for formal schooling
- helping older children with homework

7. Problem-solving skills
Problem-solving ability is key when dealing with disobedient children. Outline any discipline or reward systems you’ve used to keep children in line.
Here are other problem-solving skills to put on your child care resume:
- Time management skills
- Organizational skills
- Quick and confident decision making
- Logical thinking
8. Basic health knowledge
While you don’t need medical qualifications to be a child care worker, you should have enough know-how to create a safe environment for kids.
You should be able to identify unusual symptoms, administer child-safe medication, and act responsibly during emergencies. You also need to prepare nutritious food, encourage outdoor play, and reduce screen time.
Mention these health care skills on your resume:
- Medical certifications (CPR, first aid, and AED)
- Training in child safety regulations
- Knowledge of food safety and nutritional needs
- Caring for children with special needs
How to put child care skills on your resume
Once you’ve determined the child care skills you’d like to highlight, it’s time to put them on your resume. Here’s how:
1. Make your child care skills shine with data
Support your resume skills with hard numbers. Your resume will stand out to hiring managers if you include specific evidence of your abilities.
Give precise data about the ages and numbers of children that you cared for in previous positions. Where you can, provide statistics about any accomplishments on your resume .
Here are two versions of an example work experience entry for a child care resume. The first version is plain and unimpressive, but the second version describes relevant skills with numbers and examples that will grab the hiring manager’s attention:
Unimpressive
- Supervised young children every day
- Wrote reports about the children
- Disciplined children
- Supervised 15 children aged 4–7 every day
- Wrote detailed weekly reports on child behavior and development
- Introduced a rigorous discipline method, reducing tantrum incidents by 45%
2. Put your child care skills all over your resume
Add your child care skills to the following 3 resume sections :
Resume objective
Grab the employer’s attention with a resume objective that spotlights your abilities. Summarize your most relevant experience and child care skills, using skills-based resume keywords from the job ad to target the hiring manager’s interest.
Here’s an example of a well-written objective filled with relevant child care skills :
Dedicated child care provider with 5+ years of experience caring for children aged 2–5 . Specialize in creating fun and stimulating learning activities and implementing effective daily routines . Certified in CPR, PT, and nutritional science , and passionate about promoting healthy habits for kids .
Work experience section
You should also put your skills in your resume’s work experience section. By doing this, you can prove how you’ll transfer your skills to the job in a compelling way.
Here’s an example of a child care worker linking soft skills to real-life examples in their resume:
CATERPILLAR EARLY LEARNING CENTER, Flint, MI Child Care Provider, January 2017–July 2019
- Implemented creative daily outdoor programs to promote physical fitness and holistic wellness
- Prepared 3 nutritionally complete, child-friendly meals daily while adhering to food hygiene protocol
- Guided young children to developmental milestones, including potty training and instruction in basic manners
Skills section
List any relevant skills that didn’t fit into the rest of your resume on the skills section of your resume .
Include a mix of hard and soft skills , formatted as a list, like this:
Additional Skills
- Computer skills (Microsoft Office, Google Calendar)
- Fluent in English and Spanish
- Obsessed with learning about child psychology
Click to rate this article

Written by Aaron Case, CPRW
Aaron Case is a Content Specialist & Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) at Resume Genius, where he loves writing resume and cover letter tips that give job... more
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You Can Do It: Teaching Toddlers Problem-Solving Skills

Problem-solving skills are necessary for early childhood development
Problem-solving skills build upon how toddlers sense, think, and understand the world around them, making them vital for early childhood development. By being active participants in exploration, toddlers learn to make connections they can apply to other areas of life through new experiences.
Luckily, curiosity and play-based activities come naturally to toddlers. But you can encourage them to develop problem-solving skills by showing them exercises and activities that will inspire them to think creatively and critically.
Identify the problem
Problem-solving means finding solutions to a problem. And the ability to solve problems requires mental development, which toddlers need to think, communicate, and take action.
In terms of cognitive development, problem-solving skills include the following:
- Analytical thinking, breaking down a problem into manageable parts
- Lateral thinking, solving problems creatively
- Decision-making
- Logical reasoning
- Persistence
- Communication
- Negotiation
Toddlers are like little scientists constantly experimenting with cause and effect, socially and physically. This interest is a marker for the development of problem-solving skills, so keep their natural efforts focused to encourage their problem-solving.
Determine the solution
Although as adults we are inclined to help toddlers, letting them solve problems on their own helps them learn better problem-solving skills. Independence will also encourage them to develop the confidence needed for more advanced problem-solving.
The language you use to address a toddler or answer their questions also presents an opportunity to teach problem-solving. Ask a toddler for their opinion on or interpretation of a problem, and make an effort to guide them toward their own solution. Ask questions that start with what , why , how , when , where , and who , and look to them for answers.
Aside from giving a toddler independence to play and learn, consider the following simple activities to promote their problem-solving:
- Working with blocks, nesting boxes, or stacking rings
- Putting together puzzles
- Playing hide-and-seek with objects
- Grouping like items together
- Engaging in imaginative play with household objects
- Playing games such as Simon Says, Tic-Tac-Toe, or spot the difference between two similar pictures
- Playing dress-up
- Drawing in their own book
- Doing simple chores such as wiping counters or sweeping
- Stringing macaroni, cereal, or chunky beads
- Building forts from boxes or sheets
- Matching animals with their sounds
- Playing memory games
- Answering story-time questions
Challenging a toddler to solve problems doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive, but you should do so while they’re still young. Investing time and effort into helping them learn these skills now will give them a foundation to overcome obstacles independently throughout life. The VA Infant & Toddler Specialist Network helps improve the quality of care for infants and toddlers through extensive resources, services, and education for caregivers. Learn more about how we can help you improve the standard of care.
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IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Problem Solving with Children This lesson takes a step-by-step approach to helping children learn to solve their own problems. Topics include recognizing emotions, identifying methods for dealing with conflict, and techniques to use with children as they develop socially and emotionally. (2 hours) View the course for free in On Demand
By introducing problem solving skills in the classroom, children learn to think in terms of manageable steps as they: 1. Identify Problems 2. Brainstorm Possible Solutions 3. Test Appropriate Solutions 4. Analyze Results By viewing problems as opportunities to grow, children broaden their understanding while building confidence.
Teachers can use the problem solving approach of this in-service suite with children in their classrooms. It helps children resolve social problems as they arise "in the moment." Materials for Trainers Supporting Materials Presentation [PPT, 82MB] Presenter Notes [PDF, 2MB] Learning Activity: Problem Solve [PDF, 80KB]
Help your child develop solutions if they are struggling to come up with ideas. Even a silly answer or far-fetched idea is a possible solution. The key is to help them see that with a little creativity, they can find many different potential solutions. Identify the pros and cons of each solution.
Work through the problem with the children using the five problem solving steps. Step 1: How do you feel? Calm down. Ask the children to identify how they felt or how they might feel if this problem happened to them. Ask them for suggestions to calm down. Practice ways to calm down, like taking three deep breaths. Step 2: What is the Problem?
1. Start putting paperbacks on the floor to build a road through your house. 2. Hardback books are great for things that need to stay upright. Maybe you could use them for building tunnels and bridges. 3. Let the books drive your imagination! Build a house with a roof and add a hill or a roundabout. 4. It's your world, so get creative! The wind
Childcare Providers Tips: Problem Solving Techniques Introduction No matter what business or field a person works in, there are bound to be problems that present themselves from time to time. Occasionally, problems will appear in the child home day care setting scenario as well.
Try the solution. Review the solution. 1. Define the problem. Be clear and specific about the problem: Describe what's happening, how often it's happening, and who's involved. For example, 'In the past three weeks, I've noticed we've argued a lot more than usual'. Focus on the issue, not the person.
"If their suggestion was something that wouldn't work with the other kids, I'd tell them they're free to bring a snack for their child that day." 2. Potty pressure Your child is newly diaper-free at home (hurray!). She's comfortable on the potty and almost always makes it there on time.
In this class, multidisciplinary student teams will hear from leading child care experts, and they will incorporate insights from law, social work, policy, business, and other fields. Using problem-solving tools, students will examine systems that contribute to this problem, and at the conclusion of the course, students will present identified ...
Problem-solving. The child care environment can be unpredictable. This makes the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills a priority. Child care professionals might need to come up with creative solutions to daily problems, always maintaining the safety and health of the children in their care. They might also need to find ...
Some of the skills needed for child care include communication, creative problem-solving, patience, physical stamina, teaching skills and leadership, which are detailed as follows: Communication When communicating with children, you'll explain concepts and instructions in simple terms that they can understand.
Common ground rules for children resolving conflicts include: Everyone gets a say. Everyone listens without interrupting. Everyone gets to propose a solution. All solutions must be discussed. The group must choose the best solution together. Give each person a say. Go around the circle and ask each child to tell her side of the story.
Encourage children to be creative, and then to try out their plans. 2. Treasure Hunt. Not only is a treasure hunt a great way to build problem-solving skills, it can also teach kids how to work together, an integral part of most preschool activities. Decide on 5 to 10 locations around the house and write out one clue to place at each location.
Problem-solving ability is key when dealing with disobedient children. Outline any discipline or reward systems you've used to keep children in line. Here are other problem-solving skills to put on your child care resume: Time management skills Organizational skills Quick and confident decision making Logical thinking Innovation Tip
Problem-solving means finding solutions to a problem. And the ability to solve problems requires mental development, which toddlers need to think, communicate, and take action. In terms of cognitive development, problem-solving skills include the following: Creativity. Analytical thinking, breaking down a problem into manageable parts.
Affordable childcare is possible — and access to it would benefit us all. Mar 19, 2023. Childcare is a challenge for families everywhere — but solving the problem also presents a major economic and social opportunity. Image: Getty Images.
There are 43 part time child care providers near you in Santa Clara, CA who may be able to provide you with the right amount of care. Displayed caregivers have had active Care.com profiles within the last 60 months but may not have current active accounts or background checks. Results are illustrative only and may not reflect current availability.
problem-solving strategies resolve the perceived stressful events. Greater attention to the cultural context of applied problem solving and coping will expand existing theoreti-cal models and greatly enhance the empirically based un-derstanding of applied problem solving, as well as promote psychology s ability to enhance effective problem solving