Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will understand how to identify a problem and think of creative solutions to help solve it. They will learn to express their ideas and create a simple solution to a problem they notice in their daily life.

Materials and Prep

• Paper
• Crayons or markers
• Scissors (with adult supervision)
• Glue (optional)
• Examples of simple problems (e.g., a toy that is hard to find, a plant that needs water)

Before the lesson, think about some everyday problems that the student might encounter, and prepare to discuss these examples together.

Activities

• Problem Spotting:

  Take a walk around your home or yard and look for problems that need solutions. Ask the student to point out things that could be improved or fixed, like a toy on the floor or a plant that needs water.

• Drawing Solutions:

  Once a problem is identified, have the student draw a picture of their solution. Encourage them to be creative and think outside the box! They can use crayons or markers to illustrate their ideas.

• Story Time:

  Help the student create a short story about their problem and solution. They can narrate it while you write it down, and then they can illustrate it with their drawings.

Talking Points

• "What is a problem we see around us? Can you find something that needs help?"
• "How can we make it better? Let's think of some fun ideas!"
• "Drawing our ideas helps us see them better. What does your solution look like?"
• "Every great invention starts with a problem. What do you think we can invent today?"
• "Telling a story about our problem and solution makes it fun! What would happen next?"