Early Atlas

Activity

Many Ways to Solve It

Children tackle a small, open-ended challenge and are encouraged to find more than one way to do it, building flexible thinking.

Ages 18–60 months

Inspired by Reggio Emilia Play-based learning flexibility problem-solving open-ended executive-function

Supports this milestone

  • demonstrates the ability to be flexible in actions and behavior. — Head Start ELOF
  • demonstrates flexibility in thinking and behavior. — Head Start ELOF

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Materials

  • A simple challenge setup, such as blocks to bridge a gap or a ball to move across a rug
  • A few different tools or objects that could each work

Steps

  • Present the challenge and let the child try a first approach.
  • When an approach does not work, say warmly, "That was one way. What is another way?"
  • Offer the assorted objects so the child can try a different tool or method.
  • Celebrate each new idea, even ones that do not fully work.
  • Talk about how trying a second way helped solve the problem.

Variations

  • Make a tower that can survive a gentle bump, then rebuild it a new way.
  • Find three different ways to sort the same set of objects.

Differentiation

  • For toddlers, model two simple ways and let them copy each.
  • For older children, ask them to predict which way will work best and why.

Accessibility

  • Offer larger, easy-grip objects for children with motor differences.
  • Accept ideas shown through gesture or pointing, not only words.

Safety

  • Use lightweight, soft materials so building and bumping stay safe.

Practices these skills

Evidence

Early Atlas