FM.H.105  MAKES A MECHANICAL TOY WORK, WITH NO DEMONSTRATION

This is an extension of FM.H.76 (searches for the causal mechanism).

Assess in the same way, scoring plus if your child finds the mechanism and operates the toy.

Teach in the same way as FM.H.76.

REMEMBERING AND EXTENDING THIS SEQUENCE

Here are some problem-solving activities which are generally mastered at the 4-5-year-old level of development:

• Points to (or names) a part which is missing from a picture.
• Tells which object is missing when 1 of 5 is taken away.
• Completes a 10-piece puzzle in 3 minutes.
• Arranges pictures in order to tell story.

As well, you will find many extension activities listed under individual items in this sequence. By now, your child has acquired strategies for solving a range of different problems. The most important strategy is that of trying again if things don’t work out the first time. You can extend his problem-solving skills by offering more challenging materials, but do give him plenty of time to practise with familiar toys and puzzles for the sake of the satisfaction it will bring him to complete tasks quickly and efficiently.