In today’s rapidly evolving world, the ability to think differently or divergently is not just a nice-to-have—it is essential. This is especially true during the formative years between ages 5 and 13. This is the period when their brains are most malleable, and capable of absorbing new information like sponges.

In addition, this is when their brains are capable of rewiring themselves remarkably through neuroplasticity, thus developing the cognitive frameworks they’ll use for the rest of their lives.

The earlier you start, the more ingrained these habits will become. This will lay a strong foundation for their future growth and success.

Thinking differently embodies the ability to harness critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, all of which are essential skills for success.  These skills are not just about academic achievement; they are necessary for manipulating life’s challenges and opportunities.

…the Different Thinking Styles

• Convergent thinking is a type of thinking that focuses on finding a single, correct answer to a problem. It involves narrowing down possibilities to arrive at a logical and definitive solution.
• Divergent thinking is a type of thinking that involves generating multiple creative solutions to a problem. It is about exploring different possibilities and thinking outside the box.

While both types of thinking are important, divergent thinking is preferable in children. This helps them develop flexibility, adaptability, and innovation.

– Key characteristics of divergent thinking include:

• Creativity: It involves coming up with innovative and original ideas.
• Flexibility: It is about being open to different perspectives and approaches.
• Fluency: It is about generating a large quantity of ideas.
• Originality: It is about coming up with unique and unusual solutions.

– Examples of divergent thinking:

• Brainstorming: Generating a list of ideas for a new product or project.
• Creative writing: Writing stories, poems, or scripts that involve imaginative and original concepts.
• Art and design: Creating unique and expressive works of art.
• Problem-solving: Coming up with multiple solutions to a complex problem.

Divergent thinking is essential for innovation and problem-solving. It helps individuals to think creatively and come up with new and better ways of doing things.

Strategies to Promote Different Thinking

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to nurture this vital skill:

1. Encourage Curiosity and Questions

One of the most effective ways to help your child think differently is by encouraging curiosity. When your child asks questions like “Why is the sky blue?” or “How do birds fly?” don’t just provide a simple answer. Instead, use these moments as opportunities to explore deeper. Say, “What do you think?” and let them hypothesize before providing an explanation.

Tips:

• Create a “question jar” where your child can drop in questions they think of throughout the day. Choose a time each week to explore these questions together.
• Allow them to read wide and specialize in books that spark curiosity and create room for thinking differently. Choose books on science, history, or even fictional stories that present puzzles or moral dilemmas. For example,
  • “The Magic School Bus” Series by Joanna Cole – An educational series that takes kids on exciting, science-based adventures;
  • “The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963” by Christopher Paul Curtis – A historical novel that explores civil rights through the eyes of a young boy; and
  • “The Mysterious Benedict Society” by Trenton Lee Stewart – A clever and thrilling tale filled with puzzles and moral questions that challenge the characters.
• Ask open-ended questions that spark curiosity. For example, instead of asking “What is the capital of France?”, ask “What do you think life is like in France?”

2. Promote Creative Problem-Solving

Critical thinking is about solving problems in creative ways. Whether it is a puzzle, a math problem, or a disagreement with a sibling, encourage your child to come up with multiple solutions. Teach them that there is often more than one way to solve a problem.

Tips:

• Play strategy games like chess or board games that require planning and foresight.
• Give your child challenges that require them to think outside the box, like building something with limited materials or solving a riddle.
• Encourage Creative Expression: Provide outlets for your child’s creativity, such as drawing, painting, writing, or music.

3. Promote Independent Thinking

It is important for children to learn how to think for themselves. This means allowing them to make decisions, even if it means they might fail. Failure is a powerful teacher, and when children learn to recover from setbacks, they develop resilience and confidence in their ability to figure things out on their own.

Tips:

• Let your child plan their day or week, deciding which activities to do and when.
• Encourage them to take up a hobby that requires dedication and self-motivation, like painting, playing an instrument, or gardening.
• Art Projects: Provide a variety of art supplies and let your child explore different techniques. This can encourage creativity and self-expression.

4. Expose Them to Diverse Perspectives

Children who are exposed to a variety of viewpoints and cultures are better equipped to think critically. They learn that different people see the world in different ways and that it’s okay to hold differing opinions.

Tips:

• Read and tell stories from different cultures and discuss how the characters think and act differently.
• Introduce your child to diverse social settings where they can interact with children from different backgrounds.
• Read a Variety of Books: Expose your child to different genres and perspectives through reading. This can help them develop empathy and critical thinking skills.
• Promote Experimentation: Provide opportunities for your child to experiment and explore. This can involve simple activities like building with blocks or conducting science experiments.

5. Teach Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

Thinking differently also involves understanding others’ emotions and perspectives. Empathy is key to collaboration and innovation. By teaching your child to consider how others might feel or think, you’re equipping them with the tools to approach problems in ways that are both creative and considerate.

Tips:

• Discuss characters’ feelings and motivations when reading stories or watching movies together.
• Role-play different scenarios where your child has to consider others’ feelings, such as helping a friend or resolving a conflict.

6. Incorporate Technology, but Wisely

In the 21st century, technology is both a tool and a challenge. While it can stifle creativity if overused or misused, it can also be a powerful aid in fostering creative thinking. The key is to use technology wisely.

Tips:

• Introduce your child to educational apps and games that promote problem-solving and creativity, like coding platforms or digital art programs.
• Set limits on passive screen time and encourage activities that require interaction, like building a digital project or creating a story.
• Play Games That Encourage Problem-Solving: Games like chess, puzzles, and riddles can help children develop problem-solving skills.
• Limit Screen Time: Excessive screen time can hinder creative thinking. Encourage your child to spend time outdoors and engaging in activities that stimulate their imagination.

7. Nurture a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset—the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort—is crucial for thinking differently. Children who believe they can improve are more likely to embrace challenges, persist through difficulties, and learn from mistakes.

Tips:

• Praise your child’s efforts rather than their innate abilities. Instead of saying, “You’re so smart,” say, “I’m proud of how hard you worked on that.“
• Encourage your child to see challenges as opportunities to grow rather than as obstacles.

8. Engage in Outdoor Activities

Nature offers endless opportunities for creative thinking. Whether it’s identifying animal tracks, building a fort, or just exploring, being outside stimulates curiosity and problem-solving.

Tips:

• Take regular nature walks and encourage your child to observe and ask questions about their surroundings.
• Set up outdoor challenges like a scavenger hunt or building something using only natural materials.
• Nature Walks: Encourage your child to observe the natural world and ask questions. This can spark curiosity and wonder.

9. Encourage Reflection

Finally, encourage your child to reflect on their thoughts and actions. Reflection helps them understand their thought processes and learn from their experiences. It’s an essential part of developing the ability to think differently.

Tips:

• At the end of the day, ask your child to share something new they learned or a challenge they faced and how they handled it.
• Use a journal or drawing book where they can express their thoughts and feelings about their experiences.

10. Model Divergent Thinking

Children learn by observing. When they see you approach problems creatively, they’re more likely to do the same. Whether it’s coming up with a new recipe, finding a shortcut to a destination, or resolving a conflict, let your child see your thought process. Show them how you approach problems creatively and think critically.

Tips:

• Talk through your problem-solving process out loud so your child can hear how you approach challenges.
• Show flexibility in your thinking by trying new things and being open to learning from mistakes.
• Cooking Together: Let your child experiment with different ingredients and flavors. This can foster creativity and problem-solving skills.

Celebrate Mistakes: They are Disguised Opportunities for your Child

Teaching your child to think differently in the 21st century is about equipping them with the skills they need to explore a complex world with confidence and creativity.

However, they are bound to make mistakes in this journey. But mistakes are a natural part of learning. Instead of viewing them as failures, we can embrace them as valuable opportunities for growth.

When they understand that mistakes are a natural part of learning, they are more likely to approach challenges with curiosity and resilience.

Additionally, celebrating mistakes can create a supportive environment where children feel comfortable taking risks and exploring new ideas. When they know that their efforts will be appreciated regardless of the outcome, they are more likely to think creatively and experiment with different approaches.