Guest Author - Vanette (Vannie) Ryanes

Problem-solving is a skill that's applicable to all facets of your children's lives--from school work to relationships.



Here are six steps to teach your children how to tackle any problem they're facing:

STEP 1: Identify the problem

This is the most important step, and often the most overlooked. Your child can't solve a problem until he can state what it is.

STEP 2: Come up with a list of solutions

Brainstorm on possible solutions, even ones that initially seem farfetched. Just keep the ideas flowing.

STEP 3: Assess each idea.

Now is the time to judge the merit of each idea, weighing the pros and cons of each solution.

STEP 4: Pick one or two of the ideas

Have your child pick the top two solutions and have him talk about the specific reasons for choosing those ideas.

STEP 5: Put the decision into action

Before he puts the decision into action, talk about possible outcomes. What are the possible obstacles? What help can you expect? How can you avoid traps?

STEP 6: Evaluate and learn

How did the solution work? What changes need to be made to make it work better? What would he try the next time?

Following the above steps can help your child learn early on to begin solving his or her own problems. This often leads to living a more successful and healthier lifestyle.


Hone your skills for work and family and you hone them for living life to the fullest


Copyright: vryanes/fd/lic.