The ability to think critically and solve problems is a valuable skill that young children do not use instinctively. They look up to adults to solve their problems and well-intentioned adults often give in, rather than fostering problem-solving skills. We must allow young children to find ways to solve their own problems, encourage them to do so, and provide environments rich with opportunities to face and accept challenges. This will let the young child develop stronger thinking skills, become a better problem solver, and blossom into an independent individual and enthusiastic learner.

Critical thinking instruction addresses the wide range of developmental levels and varied learning styles of children, which promotes higher level thinking skills by emphasizing the thought process rather than a specific answer. The fun and interesting problems given are often open ended, lending themselves to several interpretations and multiple solutions. Instead of having only one right or wrong answer, the puzzles presented in the series call on the children to think through a problem from different angles, determine a logical course of action, and be able to justify their answers. Critical thinking skills do not come easily and must be practiced and reinforced, and when taught from early childhood, it teaches the child to think at a higher level.  

The materials used give the children a means by which to enhance their ability in collecting information, (naming, listing, categorizing), evaluating relationships, making plans and patterns, testing, and comparing solutions. Patterns, puzzles, and picture formats are used, where difficulty level varies widely not only to meet the child's initial skill level, but also to address the skill growth with increasingly difficult challenges. Illustrations are carefully chosen to reflect developmentally appropriate and generally familiar subjects and items, which are relevant to a child's daily life. 
No reading or math skills are required at all!

How can we create an environment for thinking for our children?

How can we encourage deeper thinking skills?

What is an Analogy and how does it work?