Why is it so crucial to develop problem solving skills? As parents and teachers, we are often there to help children solve the problems and tasks they face, but we may not always be around to assist them. Therefore, children must develop the skills they need to solve problems efficiently and independently. Not just in their academic work, but throughout life in general. Nurturing children’s problem solving skills means they can face the tasks they’re given head-on and increase their confidence and leadership abilities too.

Studying computing and learning to code are some of the best ways of enhancing your problem solving skills. Programming tasks require well-developed abilities in creative thinking, brainstorming, decision making and communication. Applying all these skills in unison is key to becoming a great problem solver. RoboBrain teaches programming to children as young as 6 by bringing to life programming concepts and processes in a visual way, linking them to everyday tasks, decisions and/or objects. Studying coding from a young age gives children a significant advantage in developing their problem solving skills.

Decomposition.

It is one of RoboBrain’s main aims is to grow our students’ ability to think computationally. Decomposition is one of the four key elements of computational thinking. It allows you to break big problems into smaller parts that are easier to manage. For young learners, breaking down processes into individual steps is not so obvious. RoboBrain’s coding courses help children to practise decomposition in order to enhance their problem-solving abilities. Children who can decompose problems confidently will naturally use this tool in the future. They will divide complex problems into smaller tasks before successfully solving them.

Communication

RoboBrain’s coding classes emphasise communication. Accurately articulating complex ideas, breaking down tasks and discussing possible solutions are all encouraged in our lessons. Learning to communicate well solidifies a child’s knowledge and promotes the healthy development of crucial social skills. When programming, finding the best solution is often a collaborative process, so good communication is key to completing these tasks. In academia and throughout life, just solving a problem by yourself is not enough, you must also be able to communicate the solution to your peers.
Testing and Debugging.

Even when it seems like a coding problem has been solved, when the solution is tested, it often becomes clear that it is not. Programming is an iterative process, meaning that the solution found may require multiple rounds of testing and improvement. Each round will bring the student nearer to the most accurate and efficient solution. This process sharpens the investigative abilities of children. It builds up children’s confidence and encourages them to try different, more out-of-the-box, solutions. Testing and debugging teach children patience and perseverance. Locating bugs also grows their analytical skills. All these skills are key to efficient problem-solving.

Getting Started.

Learning to code offers children a safe and fun learning environment to become better problem solvers. This is just one of the many benefits of learning this skill. Find out more about our online coding courses for kids or click the ‘Free Taster Lesson’ button and join us for a free lesson where you and your child can experience our unique curriculum.