Creative Problem Solving

Educators speak of skills beyond the 3 R’s to define 21st century learning. These skills are often described as the 4 C’s of 21st century learning:

• Critical thinking and problem solving
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Creativity

These skills can be practiced and enhanced because they help not only in academic settings but life in general. These skills and others comprise the resilience helping healthy kids stay healthy. People who practice creative problem solving learn how to frame problems, create more options and become better problem solvers. Creative problem solving skills offset some risk factors associated with mental illness, including poor problem solving skills, inability to generate alternative solutions, elevated levels of stress and poor coping skills.

One activity called PIP (for Problem / Ideas / Plan) provides a model that individuals can practice to help improve problem solving skills. Educators can present it during a single class period with any size group.

Here are PIP tools for you to use:

PIP lesson and worksheet example

You may view more information about this practical activity in the slideshow below:

PIP CPS presentation

Please contact us if you are interested in identifying facilitators or more resources for creative problem solving and other wellness activities to help keep healthy kids healthy.