10 Problem-Solving Activities for Kids & Young Teens

Problem-solving is one of the most valuable skills a child can learn. It’s the foundation for handling challenges, whether figuring out how to share toys, deciding how to tackle a tough homework assignment, or navigating social situations. Problem-solving is also a skill anyone can develop with practice — and it can be fun and rewarding.

For kids who are neurodivergent, like those on the autism spectrum or with ADHD, problem-solving might look a little different, but it’s just as important. These children often bring unique strengths to the table, like creative thinking or an incredible eye for detail. 

With a bit of guidance and the right activities, you can help any child, neurodivergent or neurotypical, grow into a confident problem-solver. In this post, we’ll explore what makes problem-solving an essential skill, why it’s especially meaningful for neurodivergent kids, and 10 hands-on activities you can try at home to help them build these abilities.

Why Does Problem-Solving Matter?

Problem-solving is more than just figuring out answers. It’s about teaching kids to approach challenges with confidence, curiosity, and patience. 

When children learn to break problems into smaller parts, consider different solutions, and stick with it until they find an answer, they’re building skills they’ll use throughout their lives. For younger children, problem-solving might mean figuring out how to stack blocks without them falling or deciding what to do when they and a friend want the same toy. 

For teens, it might involve managing their time for a big school project or working through a disagreement with a friend. In every case, problem-solving helps kids become more independent and capable.

For neurodivergent children, problem-solving can also be a way to manage challenges related to their unique needs. For example, a child on the autism spectrum might use problem-solving skills to navigate social interactions or create a plan for managing sensory overload. A child with ADHD might learn strategies to stay organized or tackle tasks that feel overwhelming.

Problem-Solving and Neurodivergence

Neurodivergent kids often bring incredible strengths to problem-solving. A child with ADHD might come up with creative, outside-the-box ideas that no one else would think of. A child on the autism spectrum might have an exceptional ability to notice patterns or approach problems in a highly logical way.

That said, they may also need extra support to handle certain challenges. For instance, children with ADHD might struggle to stay focused long enough to carry out their ideas, while children on the autism spectrum might find it hard to interpret the social context of a problem. 

That’s where tailored problem-solving activities come in. These activities are designed to meet kids where they are, helping them build confidence and skills in a supportive environment.

10 Problem-Solving Activities for Kids and Teens

If you want to help and support a child on their journey to becoming a stronger problem-solver, these activities can help.

1. Everyday Detective Work

One of the simplest ways to engage kids in problem-solving is by turning everyday moments into detective games. Hide a small object somewhere in your home and give them clues to find it. 

Start with broad hints, like “It’s in a room where you can sit,” and gradually get more specific. This activity is a fun way to teach deductive reasoning while keeping kids entertained. For children who might need extra support, you can use pictures or tactile clues to help guide them.

2. Building Contraptions

Kids love creating things, and designing a simple contraption can be a great way to encourage problem-solving. Give them household items like rubber bands, paperclips, and cardboard, and challenge them to create a device that can launch a small ball or hold a certain amount of weight. 

They’ll learn through trial and error, tweaking their designs as they go. This hands-on activity works especially well for kids with ADHD who enjoy active, engaging projects, as well as for children on the autism spectrum who might appreciate the logical steps involved.

3. Social Dilemma Role-Play

Role-playing helps kids practice handling real-life social situations. Present a scenario, like “What would you do if a classmate teased you?” or “How could you help a friend who forgot their lunch?” 

Encourage your child to think of possible solutions and try acting them out. This kind of activity can be especially beneficial for neurodivergent kids who might struggle to interpret social cues. You can gently guide them by offering suggestions and talking through the emotions involved in each scenario.

4. Puzzle Challenges as a Team

Group problem-solving activities teach kids the value of teamwork. Working together to solve a jigsaw puzzle, build a LEGO structure, or decode a mystery encourages kids to communicate, share ideas, and collaborate. 

If one child prefers sorting puzzle pieces while another enjoys placing them, that’s okay! This activity shows that everyone has unique strengths to contribute, which is a great lesson in itself.

5. Math in Everyday Life

Problem-solving doesn’t always have to feel like a separate activity. Involve kids in practical math-based tasks, like planning a grocery trip on a budget. Ask them to figure out how many apples you can buy with $10 or how much change you’ll get back from a purchase. 

These real-world exercises help kids see how problem-solving applies to their daily lives. For kids who find math overwhelming, using visual aids or calculators can make it more approachable and fun.

6. Collaborative Storytelling

Creating a story together sparks creativity and teamwork. Start a story with a single sentence, like “A mysterious package arrived on the doorstep,” and take turns adding to it. 

This activity encourages kids to think on their feet and adapt to new twists in the narrative. If verbal brainstorming feels tricky, children can write down their ideas or draw parts of the story instead. It’s a playful way to build adaptability and cooperation.

7. Designing a Sensory-Friendly Obstacle Course

Creating and navigating obstacle courses is a fantastic way to combine physical activity with problem-solving. Kids can figure out how to move through a series of challenges—like crawling under chairs or balancing on pillows—without touching the floor. If they’re designing the course themselves, they’ll also practice planning and adjusting their ideas. 

This activity works well for kinesthetic learners and can be easily adapted for children with sensory sensitivities by using materials that match their comfort levels.

8. Escape Rooms at Home

Escape rooms are an exciting way to teach persistence and logical thinking. Set up a mini escape room in your home with clues and puzzles that lead to a final goal, like unlocking a box. Tailor the difficulty level to your child’s age and interests. 

Neurodivergent kids may benefit from extra prompts or visuals to help them process the clues. The sense of accomplishment when they “escape” is incredibly rewarding.

9. Journaling Through Challenges

Encourage kids to keep a journal where they can write about problems they face, brainstorm solutions, and reflect on what worked. It might be as simple as, “I couldn’t find my favorite toy, so I looked in three different places before I found it.” 

Over time, this habit helps kids develop self-awareness and confidence in their ability to solve problems. Journaling can be particularly helpful for neurodivergent children who benefit from structure and reflection.

10. Hero Journey Club: A Place for Growth

Programs like Hero Journey Club (HJC) are specifically designed to help kids, including neurodivergent kids, develop problem-solving skills in a fun and supportive environment. HJC combines video games, teamwork, and life skills training to teach kids how to tackle challenges collaboratively. 

Whether they’re designing strategies for a game or brainstorming ways to help their team succeed, kids at HJC learn to think critically, communicate effectively, and reflect on their decisions. For neurodivergent kids, the club provides a safe space to explore their abilities and grow.

Bringing It All Together

Problem-solving is more than just a skill—it’s a mindset that helps kids navigate the world with confidence and curiosity.

By weaving problem-solving activities into everyday life, you’re giving your child tools they’ll use for years to come. Whether it’s tackling a tricky puzzle, resolving a social conflict, or planning a fun family outing, these activities show kids that challenges can be opportunities to learn and grow.

For neurodivergent children, problem-solving can be particularly empowering. It helps them understand their unique strengths and develop strategies to overcome obstacles. With patience, creativity, and the right support, every child can become a capable, confident problem-solver ready to take on whatever comes their way.

Sources:

Autism spectrum disorder - Symptoms and causes | Mayo Clinic

ADHD in Kids & Teens (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealth

How to Support a Neurodivergent Child | Children's Hospital Colorado

What Is A Kinesthetic Learner? | BAU