Teaching Kids Problem Solving Skills: A Fun Homeschool Life Skill

What are problem solving skills for kids?

Problem solving skills for kids are the ability to think through a situation, consider different options, weigh the pros and cons, and choose a wise solution. Teaching children problem solving helps them build critical thinking, better decision-making, and confidence in everyday life.

These are skills that matter in academics—but even more in life.

Why problem solving matters in your homeschool

Homeschooling gives us the unique opportunity to teach more than just subjects. We also get to teach our children how to think.

When kids learn how to solve problems, they begin to:

think before reacting
consider consequences
make wiser decisions
stay calmer in stressful situations
build independence and confidence

That’s why problem solving is such a valuable homeschool life skill. It supports character, maturity, and common sense—not just schoolwork.

And honestly? Most kids need more practice in this area than we realize.

A simple method for teaching kids problem solving: SODAS

In this episode, Felice teaches a simple acronym kids can remember:

SODAS

Each letter stands for a step in solving a problem:

S = Situation
O = Options
D = Disadvantages
A = Advantages
S = Solution

This is a fantastic framework for homeschool families because it gives children a concrete way to stop, think, and work through what to do next.

It’s also something parents can use again and again in everyday life.

Teaching kids to think through consequences

One of the biggest challenges for children is that they often act first and think later. That’s normal—but it’s also something we can train.

A simple problem-solving process helps children move from impulsive reactions to thoughtful choices.

Instead of:

panicking
blaming
yelling
freezing up

…they begin to ask:

What happened?
What are my options?
What might happen if I choose this?
What would be the wisest solution?

That’s a skill worth practicing.

Just for Kids: Let’s Practice Problem Solving Together

Okay kids—this part is for you.

Have you ever had an adult ask you:

“What were you thinking?”

If they have… that probably means something didn’t go very well.

But here’s the good news: thinking is a skill, and like any skill, you can get better at it with practice.

When we solve a problem, we use our minds to figure out an answer or a solution. You already do this every day:

solving math problems
answering questions in school
figuring out mysteries in books
deciding what to do when something ...