Problem-solving activities for preschoolers, by age

Preschoolers solve problems best through play: fitting shapes, building a tower that stands, finding a way through a maze, sharing toys fairly. The trick for parents is to ask a question instead of giving the answer, and to let a little struggle happen before stepping in.

By age

• Age 3: shape sorters, simple jigsaws of 6 to 12 pieces, stacking cups, "where does this go?" tidy-up games.
• Age 4: 12 to 24 piece puzzles, building with blocks to a goal ("make a bridge for the car"), simple mazes, sorting by two rules.
• Age 5: picture sequences, longer mazes, simple board games with choices, early coding toys and puzzle apps.
• Age 6: multi-step puzzles, strategy games with an opponent, building from a picture.

How to help without solving it

• Ask "What could you try?" before offering an idea.
• Name what they did: "You turned it round and it fitted."
• Offer one clue, then wait.
• Treat mistakes as information: "That didn't work. What do we know now?"

Problem solving in Jupo World

Problem solving is one of the 26 skills in Jupo World's skill map. Games such as Catch the Raccoon lean most on problem solving and logical reasoning.

Questions parents ask

How do I know if a puzzle is too hard?

If your child gives up after one try every time, it is too hard. If they finish without thinking, it is too easy. Aim for the middle.

Are puzzles better than apps for problem solving?

Both help. Physical puzzles add touch and talk; good apps add hints and adjust to the child.