Preschoolers are naturally curious. They’re learning how to make choices, ask questions and solve everyday challenges. These problem-solving and critical thinking skills are key for school readiness—and for building the kind of confidence that helps kids keep trying, even when things get tricky.

Let Them Explore

One of the best ways to support your child’s critical thinking is to give them space to explore—and resist the urge to jump in with answers right away.

• Open-ended play is powerful. Offer toys like blocks, art supplies or puzzles that don’t have a single “right” answer. Let your child experiment and solve problems while playing.
• Get curious outside. Head outside and explore your neighborhood or local park. Ask questions like, “Why do you think the clouds are moving so fast today?” or “How many different bug sounds can we hear right now?”

Practice Following Directions

Learning to listen and follow directions is a big part of problem-solving, and something your preschooler will need every day in kindergarten.

• Start with simple instructions. Try: “Can you put the blue block on top of the red one?” This helps them learn to listen, process and act.
• Break tasks into steps. Instead of “Clean your room,” say, “Put your stuffed animals in the bin, then put your books on the shelf.” Step-by-step instructions help them feel capable and avoid overwhelm.

Show How You Solve Problems

Your child is always watching how you handle frustration, mistakes and decisions. By thinking out loud, you can teach them problem-solving in real time.

• Narrate your thinking. Say, “Hmm, I’m missing my keys. I remember using them near the kitchen. I’ll start looking there first.” This helps them see how to approach a challenge without getting upset.
• Ask guiding questions. When your child is stuck, try: “What do you think we could try next?” or “What might help us fix this?” You’re giving them the tools to think through problems, not just solve them for them.

Help Them Practice Making Decisions

Making choices gives preschoolers a sense of control, and builds decision-making skills they’ll use their whole life.

• Give simple choices. Try, “Do you want to wear your red or green shirt?” or “Would you like carrots or apple slices with lunch?” Letting them choose helps them feel confident and responsible.
• Reflect together. After a decision, ask, “How did that work out?” or “Would you do anything differently next time?” These conversations help them learn from experience.

Celebrate Their Effort (Not Just the Right Answer)

Your encouragement matters—especially when they’re trying something new.

• Praise the process. Say things like, “You really thought about where to put those puzzle pieces!” or “I love how you kept trying different ways until it worked!”
• Normalize mistakes. Everyone messes up. Let your child know it’s okay to get things wrong—that’s how we learn. “It’s okay that it didn’t work out. Let’s figure out a new way together.”