Why is Critical Thinking Important for Children?

Critical thinking in this day and age is very crucial and as such children should learn as well as be exposed to it it on a daily basis. It does not have to be a lesson but just simply a mere question and answer discussion. Take for example, "Why do you think the Coronavirus is dangerous?"

Allow them to give reasons or examples why they believe it is dangerous. Also, allow them to think on their own and know that it is fine to be confused and ask questions for clarity.

Even your little ones are exposed to critical thinking from an early age. Take for example, during play with a set of counters children may group them (counters) by colours, shapes or sizes. You can now help them to hone their skills by extending their understanding through questions such as " Why did you group all these together?" or place counters by patterns and ask "What colour do you think would come next and why?"

Try this exercise with your older children especially those preparing for the Primary Exit Profile (PEP).

Children are usually able to provide reasons for their answers however, they often do not; instead, they may make unsupported assertions. In order to address this simply ask them, 'why?'