reasoning and problem solving

Make connections. Children learn to process information, connect related information and prior knowledge, and then complete a task or solve a problem (e.g., our shoes are dirty so we need to wipe them on the mat before going indoors).

Recognize cause and effect relationships. Children learn to recognize when one thing makes another thing happen (e.g., poking a bubble will make it pop).

Compare, contrast, and sort. Children learn more about things by observing how certain characteristics are similar or different (e.g., color, shape, size, texture, or sound), and they classify, match, and sort objects based on those characteristics (e.g., putting all the blue objects into one group).

Consider and choose from multiple solutions or options. Children learn to investigate multiple solutions or options to solve a problem. They think critically about each one and evaluate it, then choose the most appropriate or effective solution.

Evaluate their choice. Children learn to reflect on the solution or decision they made and decide whether or not it was successful. If it was not the best choice, they may go back and try another option.