Radio Commentary
Throughout childhood and adolescence, children’s
brains are developing in important ways.
One sign of this
development is the ability to think about abstract concepts, such as “truth”
and “justice.”
During
middle school, children become better at abstract thinking, but they still need
guidance.
Parents can
initiate activities and conversations that involve these skills. Here are some
examples that have worked for others:
• Challenge accepted ideas. Ask, “Why shouldn’t athletes cheat?” or “Why don’t
children go to school on the weekends?”
Making young
people support their accepted beliefs helps them understand the concepts behind
those beliefs.
•
Talk with your child about imaginary situations. Ask: “What if you won the
lottery?” or “What if eating ice cream became illegal?”
•
Do science experiments, and have children guess what will happen. Ask: “If we
shine a lamp on this plant, will it grow faster or slower?”
•
Play games that require thinking ahead. “Battleship,” checkers, and chess are
good examples of games that require some strategy.
•
Let your children make choices. It’s OK if they make minor mistakes, such as
spending their allowance too quickly. They’ll soon learn to plan better.
• Play “Twenty
Questions.” Use categorical questions in general terms. Ask: “Is it a city?”
instead of “Is it Miami?”
All these
strategies help children develop their critical thinking skills.
