Problem-Solving & Reasoning

Using logic, trial-and-error, and creative thinking to overcome challenges and figure things out.

Examples & Achievements

  • Figures out how to reach a toy that is out of reach (uses stool, asks for help)
  • Solves a simple maze on paper
  • Tries different block arrangements to make a structure stable
  • Explains why something happened ("the tower fell because it was too tall")
  • Suggests a solution to a social problem ("we can take turns")

How to Measure

  • Completes a simple paper maze with no more than 2 wrong turns
  • Provides a logical explanation for a cause-and-effect scenario
  • ASQ-3 Problem Solving section score
Sources (4)
  • ASQ-3
  • Piaget
  • HighScope
  • CDC/AAP

8 Exercises

Reach-the-Treasure "Three Ways" Challenge Mighty Mazes — Solve & Build Build-It-Stable — Tower Engineer Challenge Chain Reactions — Dominoes, Ramps & Marble Runs Solution-Finder — How Many Ways Can We Fix It? Guess My Secret — Clue-by-Clue Deduction Command the Coder — Step-by-Step & Find the Bug Three-in-a-Row & Thinking-Ahead Games