5 Ways to Work On Problem Solving in Speech Therapy

In speech therapy, helping kids build problem-solving skills is super important. These skills don’t just make them better at solving puzzles or figuring things out—they’re also key for improving social language and communication. When kids can think through challenges and come up with solutions, they’re better equipped to navigate all kinds of social situations.

Let’s dive into some fun and practical ways you can work on problem solving during your sessions! 👇🏼

1. Dive into Role-Playing Scenarios

Role-playing is such a fantastic way to teach problem solving because it mimics real-life situations. For younger clients, you can create simple, relatable scenarios. Maybe the story is about two kids who want the same toy, or someone who spilled their juice during snack time. Let your client take the lead and brainstorm how they’d handle it. Ask open-ended questions like, “What do you think could happen next?” or “How could we make sure everyone feels okay?” This helps them practice thinking critically and considering different outcomes.

💡 Bonus: it’s also a lot of fun to act things out!

2. Team Up with Collaborative Games and Puzzles

Games are magic when it comes to therapy. Pick activities that require teamwork, like building a block tower or completing a puzzle together. These kinds of games encourage kids to communicate, share ideas, and solve problems as a group. It’s also a great opportunity to highlight how teamwork makes problem-solving easier. For example, if a puzzle piece doesn’t fit, guide the conversation to something like, “What can we try next?” or “Do you think we should look for a different piece?” To see some of my favorite games to use in your speech room >> CLICK HERE! 
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3. Chat About Hypothetical Scenarios

Sometimes, it’s helpful to pause the hands-on activities and just talk. Present your clients with simple, hypothetical situations and ask them how they’d respond. For instance, “What would you do if you forgot your lunch?” or “What should you do if a friend is feeling sad?” Encourage them to think about different perspectives, weigh the pros and cons of their choices, and come up with creative ideas. These discussions can be eye-opening—and they’re a great way to model the problem-solving process.

4. Use Step-by-Step Worksheets

Sometimes, kids need a little extra structure to understand the steps of problem solving. That’s where worksheets come in handy! These can guide them through each stage, like:

• What is the problem?

• What are some possible solutions?

• What might happen with each solution?

• Which solution seems like the best choice?

Make it interactive by using visuals or letting them draw their answers. Worksheets don’t have to be boring, and they can give kids a clear roadmap for tackling challenges.

5. Bring Problem Solving into Real Life

The ultimate goal is for kids to use these skills outside of therapy. One way to help is by giving them homework that connects to their everyday lives. For instance, if a client loves animals, you could say, “What would you do if your dog wouldn’t stop barking?” Or, if they’re struggling with a sibling rivalry, talk about ways to solve arguments at home. These real-life examples make problem solving feel more relevant and meaningful.

A Few Extra Tips

• Celebrate small wins. Even if a solution isn’t perfect, acknowledging the effort helps build confidence.

• Model problem-solving language. Use phrases like, “Hmm, let’s figure this out together,” or, “What do you think we should try next?”

• Keep it fun! Whether it’s through games, stories, or creative activities, kids learn best when they’re engaged and having a good time.

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By weaving these strategies into your sessions, you can help your younger clients become better problem solvers and more effective communicators. It’s a win-win! They'll feel more confident in handling challenges, and you’ll see their social skills flourish. So, grab those role-play props, puzzles, and worksheets—and let the problem-solving adventures begin!