Independent problem solving allows our children to formulate ideas, try these ideas out, and accept or reject what they learn. Constructing knowledge by making mistakes is part of the natural process of problem solving. Through exploring, then experimenting, trying out a hypothesis, and finally, solving problems, children make learning personal and meaningful.

**************************************

This activity allows children to independently explore problem solving in a non-threatening ‘game-type’ way. Ages 5-11

THREE WAY MIX UP

Jack has three blue tiles, three yellow tiles and three green tiles.

He put them together in a square so that no two tiles of the same color were beside each other.

Can you find another way to do it?

Can you find ALL the ways to do it?

If your younger children have difficulty discerning colors, this alternative may be useful: 

Link to print:
THREE WAY MIX UP IN BLACK AND WHITE

******************************************************************

The challenge in this problem is to decide in which order the information in the clues is useful. (Ages 5-9)

ONE OF THIRTY-SIX

Can you find the chosen number from this square using the clues below?

1. The number is odd.
2. It is a multiple of three.
3. It is smaller than 7×4.
4. Its tens digit is even.
5. It is the greater of the two possibilities.

Link to print activity:
one of thirty-six