Thinking Out of the Box

Teaching our kids to identify problems is great.
Teaching them to think out of the box to solve problems is another thing.

In our home, we are working on problem solving.

1. Identify a real need: Like improving our country’s energy resources.

2. Study and Brainstorm possible solutions: For instance, finding a way to produce better solar energy producers.

3. Critique plan: Does simply creating solar fields solve the problem? Is there a better way?

Now, before you think that I am more intelligent than I am let me explain. I am not an “out of the box thinker”. I have to stretch to find ways to inspire my boys to think in this capacity.

One of the ways I find creative conversation starters is finding unique and amazing videos about problems and solutions and then create a teaching environment.


Step one.
Find an inspirational image, video or product.



Step Two.
Using a probing question approach, set kids up to develop their own solutions to a true real life situation or need.

Look again at these prompts.
1. Identify a real need: How can we improve our country’s energy resources?
2. Study and Brainstorm possible solutions:  What about solar energy? Can we look for an out of the box solution to solve our energy needs?
3. Critique plan: Does simply creating solar fields solve the problem? Is there a better way?

Step three.
After the kids have come up with their best ideas, inspire them further by sharing the video clip you found here.

Step four.
After seeing the video (or image), can you think of a better solution?

We use fun templates to record our ideas. Here are some free notebooking resources. http://notebookingpages.com/free-resource-center

Have fun helping your kids become “out of the box” thinkers!