My fourth-grader can solve most story problems successfully. However, when he can't solve one on the first try, he just gives up. Is there any way to turn his attitude around? - Wondering
Answer: Problem-solving begins with devising a plan. This means going over strategies that will help children find the solution. Your son needs to become aware of the many things he can do to make solving a problem easier. This includes drawing pictures, using models, making charts, looking for patterns, remembering how a similar problem was solved, looking for relationships, trying smaller numbers in the problem or making up simple equations. Instead of just diving in, your son needs to consider first the many possible ways to solve a problem. Then if one strategy doesn't work, he'll have others to try.