A Mindset for Guiding a Conversation Together

A Mindset for Guiding a Conversation Together

The ability to listen, ask questions, and explain your point of view can make conversations at home and at school more productive. This blog offers ideas for developing young people’s critical thinking.

When children and teenagers can explain the reasoning behind their views, a conversation doesn’t have to end in an argument over who’s right. It can become a shared exploration of a topic, where questions and disagreement are welcome. Parents and teachers will find activities that encourage discussion and active listening, giving young people the chance to practise expressing their thoughts carefully in a group.

Interested in this topic? Read more: Critical thinking as the key to successful studying: How to develop analytical skills in children and teenagers Want to find out where you stand personally? Take a short test at the end of the page and gain a better understanding.

How does this apply to you? Choose the answers that describe you best:

What image comes to mind when you think of "critical thinking"?

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When do you think the process of developing critical thinking in children should begin?

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How would you feel if someone constantly asked you questions to justify your opinion?

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What approach would you choose to help a child start analyzing the information they receive?

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What do you imagine when you hear the word "debate"?

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What do you think is the best way to teach critical thinking to children?

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What is your stance if a child frequently has different opinions than you during critical thinking lessons?

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What role does the ability to make mistakes play in teaching critical thinking?

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If you had to teach a child how to respond to misinformation, what would you recommend?

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What should a child be like when learning critical thinking – independent or guided by an adult?

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Teaching Children Critical Thinking – How to Develop Critical Thinking in Children and Teenagers

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