What is the role of reflection in a child's problem-solving process?

Reflection plays a significant role in a child's problem-solving process by helping them identify what worked and what didn’t during their attempts to solve a problem. When children engage in reflective thinking, they analyze their actions, outcomes, and the strategies they employed. This process allows them to gain insights into their problem-solving methods, recognize successful approaches, and learn from mistakes.

By evaluating their experiences, children develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the problem-solving process itself. This reflective practice encourages adaptive learning, enabling them to modify their strategies in future situations and enhance their overall problem-solving abilities. Rather than simply memorizing steps or becoming discouraged in their risk-taking, reflection fosters a growth mindset where children feel empowered to experiment and learn from each problem-solving endeavor.