By Patience Schauer, Preschool Lead Teacher

In Yellow House, one of our three-year-old classrooms, we teach kids how to identify and solve problems—an essential part of their development. This approach fosters self-sufficiency, confidence and resilience. By learning to recognize issues, think critically and brainstorm solutions, children gain valuable problem-solving skills that they will carry with them throughout their lives.

Check out some of Yellow House's favorite problem-solving activities below:

Trading

In the trade game, each child starts by choosing a colored card, which becomes their color for the game. They are then given 10 chips in a variety of different colors. The goal is to trade with friends until they collect chips that match their own color. To do this, they practice using the phrase: “I will trade you a blue (the other child’s color) for a red (their own color).” They continue trading with different friends, building communication and negotiation skills, until they gather all the chips in their chosen color.

Taking turns

In this matching game, children take turns trying to find the hidden matches. This game not only stregthens turn-taking — it encourages patience, concentration and good sportsmanship, all while having fun.

Playing together

In this activity, we make several piles of blocks on the floor and half of the children get to pick a set of blocks and start playing. Then the other half has to ask a friend, “Can I play with you?” We let them play for a few minutes, then have them switch places.

Sharing and asking nicely

The Please Pass the Ice Cream Game is a GCC childcare classic! Each child gets a paper ice cream cone and sits in a circle. One child starts with a big pink pom pom—the ice cream. The child next to them practices asking, “Will you please share your ice cream with me?” The first child responds, “Yes,” and pretends to pour the ice cream into their friend’s cone. The game continues around the circle, giving everyone a chance to ask, share and play.

These everyday moments build the foundation for strong social skills and help children grow into thoughtful, capable problem-solvers—both in and out of the classroom.

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