In today’s fast-paced digital world, critical thinking is an essential skill. It goes beyond simply teaching children to “think” and focuses on guiding them to analyze, evaluate, and make independent decisions while managing vast amounts of information. This is particularly important for young children growing up surrounded by digital technology. The rapid pace of technological change demands that individuals continuously update their knowledge and skills. At DigiLa, we believe that fostering critical thinking in early childhood lays the foundation for lifelong learning, empowering children to adapt to new information and technologies.

An environment full of stimuli and exploration

Creating an atmosphere where children feel safe to express ideas and take risks is key to developing critical thinking. The most natural learning happens when children can experiment, explore, and make mistakes. Stimulus-rich environments can include diverse materials and resources, such as LEGO, art supplies, and natural objects. Open-ended resources with no predetermined outcomes encourage creativity and allow children to expand their play daily. When materials are easily accessible at their level, children can independently choose what interests them. This approach helps children ask questions, solve problems, and make decisions, all of which foster critical thinking.

Fostering curiosity through conversation

Encouraging children to ask questions and engage in meaningful dialogue helps them explore perspectives and think deeply. This process enhances their ability to analyze information, evaluate evidence, and draw conclusions. By nurturing natural curiosity, conversations stimulate cognitive growth and promote independent thinking. Use open-ended questions, such as, “What do you think will happen if…?” or “Why do you think that?” to encourage deeper thought and self-expression. Share your curiosity with children by voicing your own questions, like, “I wonder why the leaves change color in fall?” This demonstrates that it’s okay to ask questions and seek answers, building a foundation for lifelong learning and the ability to navigate the complexities of the digital age.

Encouraging problem-solving skills

In addition to fostering curiosity in a stimulating environment, encouraging problem-solving is vital for developing critical thinking. Providing opportunities for children to tackle challenges and puzzles helps them think logically and creatively. Activities like building with blocks teach balance and structure, while solving riddles enhances reasoning skills. Role-playing scenarios, such as setting up a pretend store, let children experiment with solutions. Guiding them through these processes builds resilience and confidence in approaching complex situations.

Digital literacy from kindergarten

The digital age and critical thinking are deeply connected, as technology has transformed how we access, process, and evaluate information. Introducing digital literacy in kindergarten focuses on age-appropriate skills, such as navigating basic tools, understanding online safety, and fostering curiosity about technology. Activities like exploring educational apps, using interactive screens, or programming simple robots help children develop problem-solving, creativity, and logical thinking. Early exposure ensures children become comfortable using technology as a tool for learning and communication, paving the way for advanced skills. More broadly, digital literacy fosters lifelong learning by enhancing critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving in digital environments.

References: 

• Andrus, D. (2023). Strategies for encouraging critical thinking skills in students. Educational World. https://www.educationworld.com/teachers/strategies-encouraging-critical-thinking-skills-students
• Giannikas, C. (2023). Assessment of young learners’ digital literacy. Cambridge University Press. https://www.cambridge.org/elt/blog/2023/04/30/assessment-of-young-learners-digital-literacy/
• Hilkemeijer, M. (2024). Why is critical thinking important in early childhood education? ICT in Education Teacher Academy. https://www.ictesolutions.com.au/blog/why-is-critical-thinking-important-in-early-childhood-education/
• Lionenko, M., & Huzar, O. (2023). Development of critical thinking in the context of digital learning. Economics & Education, 8(2), 29–35. https://doi.org/10.30525/2500-946X/2023-2-5
• Rymanowicz, K. (2016). The importance of critical thinking for young children. Michigan State University. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/the_importance_of_critical_thinking_for_young_children
• Strasser, J. (2019). Conversations with children! Asking questions that stretch children’s thinking. National Association for the Education of Young Children. https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/tyc/feb2019/asking-questions-stretch-children%27s-thinking
• UNICEF. (2019). Digital literacy for children: 10 things you need to know. https://www.unicef.org/innocenti/documents/digital-literacy-children-10-things-you-need-know