Debunking Problem Solving

Problem solving feels like the hardest skill for children to develop, but it doesn’t have to be. The problem with “word problems” for children is typically that the language is confusing, they can’t relate to the problem, or they don’t know where to start. There is a constant search for tricks and heuristics to simplify problem solving and give students steps to follow. We are trying to shortcut something that is not meant to be. Often times there is an emphasis on the answer rather than the process. Math isn’t just about giving an answer, there needs to be understanding too.

We need to backtrack and go back to the basics of how to make problem solving meaningful. Here are some research-backed recommendations about tackling story problems with your children:

The first step to reducing fear and anxiety is to tell your child that problem solving is actually not that scary and they CAN do it!

Talk about the power of “yet” to help them build confidence and a growth mindset.

Once you build a positive attitude around word/story problems they will be available for learning.

The next step is to make them accessible and meaningful to the child by making it FUN.

How can you make problem solving fun at home when you have a whole worksheet full of them for homework and your child is dreading it?

• Act it out OR draw it out

• Change the names in the problem to your child’s and/or your family and friends and pets

• Change the context of the problem to something your child cares a lot about

• Read the problem like a story with characters

These aspects of a word/story problem have no impact on the calculations and so are very easily interchangeable to help your child feel engaged and motivated.