importance of critical thinking for preschoolers

MSU Extension Child & Family Development

The importance of critical thinking for young children.

Kylie Rymanowicz, Michigan State University Extension - May 03, 2016

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Critical thinking is essential life skill. Learn why it is so important and how you can help children learn and practice these skills.

It is important to teach children critical thinking skills.

We use critical thinking skills every day. They help us to make good decisions, understand the consequences of our actions and solve problems. These incredibly important skills are used in everything from putting together puzzles to mapping out the best route to work. It’s the process of using focus and self-control to solve problems and set and follow through on goals. It utilizes other important life skills like making connections , perspective taking and communicating . Basically, critical thinking helps us make good, sound decisions.

Critical thinking

In her book, “Mind in the Making: The seven essential life skills every child needs,” author Ellen Galinsky explains the importance of teaching children critical thinking skills. A child’s natural curiosity helps lay the foundation for critical thinking. Critical thinking requires us to take in information, analyze it and make judgements about it, and that type of active engagement requires imagination and inquisitiveness. As children take in new information, they fill up a library of sorts within their brain. They have to think about how the new information fits in with what they already know, or if it changes any information we already hold to be true.

Supporting the development of critical thinking

Michigan State University Extension has some tips on helping your child learn and practice critical thinking.

  • Encourage pursuits of curiosity . The dreaded “why” phase. Help them form and test theories, experiment and try to understand how the world works. Encourage children to explore, ask questions, test their theories, think critically about results and think about changes they could make or things they could do differently.
  • Learn from others. Help children think more deeply about things by instilling a love for learning and a desire to understand how things work. Seek out the answers to all of your children’s “why” questions using books, the internet, friends, family or other experts.
  • Help children evaluate information. We are often given lots of information at a time, and it is important we evaluate that information to determine if it is true, important and whether or not we should believe it. Help children learn these skills by teaching them to evaluate new information. Have them think about where or who the information is coming from, how it relates to what they already know and why it is or is not important.
  • Promote children’s interests. When children are deeply vested in a topic or pursuit, they are more engaged and willing to experiment. The process of expanding their knowledge brings about a lot of opportunities for critical thinking, so to encourage this action helps your child invest in their interests. Whether it is learning about trucks and vehicles or a keen interest in insects, help your child follow their passion.
  • Teach problem-solving skills. When dealing with problems or conflicts, it is necessary to use critical thinking skills to understand the problem and come up with possible solutions, so teach them the steps of problem-solving and they will use critical thinking in the process of finding solutions to problems.

For more articles on child development, academic success, parenting and life skill development, please visit the MSU Extension website.

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension . For more information, visit https://extension.msu.edu . To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit https://extension.msu.edu/newsletters . To contact an expert in your area, visit https://extension.msu.edu/experts , or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

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importance of critical thinking for preschoolers

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Critical Thinking for Preschoolers

Written by: Kokotree

Last updated: April 26, 2023

critical thinking for preschoolers

A s a toddler parent, you might wonder if it’s too early to introduce your little one to critical thinking skills. The good news is, it’s never too early! Nurturing these skills in your preschooler can be crucial to their overall development. So, let’s jump in and explore how you can start developing critical thinking in your preschooler today, all while having a great time together!

The Importance of Critical Thinking in Early Childhood Education

Reading time, mealtime conversations, the “what if” game, puzzles and logic games, building and construction, finding the right learning app for toddlers, encourage curiosity and exploration, praise effort and improvement, create a safe space for questions and discussions, model critical thinking behaviors, attending parent-teacher conferences, communicate regularly, developmental milestones, adjusting expectations and activities, 1. what age should i start teaching my child critical thinking skills, 2. how can i tell if my preschooler is developing critical thinking skills, 3. are there specific activities or games that help develop critical thinking, 4. what role do parents play in fostering critical thinking skills, 5. how can i collaborate with my child’s preschool teacher or childcare provider, 6. can screen time contribute to critical thinking development, 7. why is curiosity important for critical thinking, 8. what is a growth mindset, and how does it relate to critical thinking, 9. is puzzle-solving the only way to promote critical thinking in preschoolers, 10. how can i support my child if they struggle with critical thinking activities, 11. how do i know if a learning app for toddlers is appropriate for critical thinking development, 12. how do developmental milestones affect my preschooler’s critical thinking abilities, 13. what should i do if i have concerns about my child’s critical thinking development.

Preschoolers can develop critical thinking skills through preschool age -appropriate activities and games that challenge them to solve problems, make decisions, and analyze information. Engaging in these experiences will teach them to ask questions, reason, and communicate effectively, building a solid foundation for their future education and overall development.

Early childhood education is a crucial period for developing a solid foundation of cognitive abilities. During this time, children are like sponges, absorbing information from their surroundings and interactions. By introducing critical thinking skills at this stage, you’re laying a strong groundwork for their future academic accomplishments and life success. Moreover, it will help your child adapt to various situations and solve problems creatively and effectively.

Incorporating Critical Thinking into Daily Routines

One of the best ways to cultivate critical thinking skills in your preschooler is by integrating them into your daily routines. This involvement can create a seamless learning environment where your child understands that problem-solving is a regular part of life.

Reading together is a quintessential activity for preschoolers. During this time, ask open-ended questions that encourage your child’s thought process. Pause and discuss the story, exploring alternative outcomes or what might happen next. This practice expands their imagination while also engaging critical thinking skills.

Mealtimes can be an excellent opportunity for developing communication and reasoning skills. Encourage your child to express their choices, preferences, and reasons for doing so. Talk about the recipe or meal preparation and how certain ingredients come together to create a final dish. This encourages your preschooler to think about cause and effect relationships.

Fun Activities and Games for Developing Critical Thinking Skills

Introducing critical thinking through playtime and hands-on activities is an effective approach for capturing your preschooler’s attention and promoting learning. Here are a few fun, engaging, and educational games and activities that will help them develop these essential cognitive abilities.

This simple, conversation-based game encourages your child to think creatively and consider alternative scenarios. Start by presenting a situation, and then ask your preschooler, “What if…?” questions related to it. For instance, “What if our pet could talk? What would they say?” or “What if cars could fly? How would that change our lives?” This activity promotes problem-solving and helps your child visualize different outcomes.

Puzzles and logic games are excellent tools for encouraging critical thinking. They require your child to analyze, strategize, and apply their reasoning abilities to solve problems. Choose age-appropriate puzzles and games that challenge your preschooler without causing frustration.

Activities that involve building and construction, such as using blocks, LEGO, or magnetic tiles, help sharpen problem-solving skills. These materials require preschoolers to plan, design, and adapt their constructions to achieve a complete structure successfully. The trial-and-error process fosters critical thinking and perseverance.

Exploring Educational Resources to Supplement Critical Thinking Learning

There are abundant educational resources available to enhance your preschooler’s critical thinking journey. From physical toys and books to digital platforms, you can find materials tailored specifically to their age and developmental stage. Among these resources, a learning app for toddlers can offer a comprehensive and engaging experience.

When looking for a learning app for toddlers, consider one that promotes critical thinking through age-appropriate, interactive activities. The right app will feature various game-based learning experiences focused on problem-solving, creativity, and reasoning. Moreover, it should be user-friendly, visually appealing, and offer a safe online environment for your child.

Reading reviews and requesting recommendations from other parents or educators can help you navigate this process and find the perfect match for your preschooler’s needs. Start by browsing apps that focus specifically on early childhood education and critical thinking development. With the right app, your child will be engaged and entertained, all while building the foundation for future success.

Supporting Your Child’s Critical Thinking Journey

As you introduce critical thinking activities and games to your preschooler, keep in mind that the learning process will be different for each child. Some children may quickly grasp concepts, while others may require more guidance and patience. Adapt your approach according to your child’s individual needs and celebrate their accomplishments, big or small.

Curiosity is an essential component of critical thinking. Encourage your preschooler to explore their surroundings and provide a variety of materials to spark their imagination. Start discussions about the world, ask questions, and listen attentively to their thoughts and ideas. Celebrate their curiosity as an essential part of their overall cognitive growth.

When acknowledging your child’s efforts or success in critical thinking activities, focus on their progress and improvement. Praising your preschooler’s hard work instead of their innate ability fosters a growth mindset and teaches them that they can improve their skills through practice and determination.

Introducing critical thinking skills during the preschool years is essential for your child’s cognitive development and prepares them for a lifetime of learning. By incorporating activities that promote problem-solving, reasoning, and decision-making into your preschooler’s daily life, you’re setting them up for success in their academic and personal future. With a variety of fun activities, educational resources, and supportive guidance, you can spark their critical thinking journey and help them grow into confident, capable individuals.

The Role of Parents and Family in Toddler Education and Critical Thinking

As the primary caregivers and role models, parents and families have a significant impact on the development of critical thinking in toddlers. By actively participating in your child’s learning process, you can provide a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters positive growth.

To promote critical thinking in toddler education, create a home environment where your child feels comfortable asking questions and engaging in discussions. Encourage them to express their thoughts and ideas, and actively listen to what they have to say. Show patience and understanding, and avoid dismissing or criticizing their questions, as this can discourage further exploration and curiosity.

Children learn a lot by observing the people around them. By demonstrating critical thinking behaviors in your everyday life, you set an example for your toddler to follow. When making decisions or solving problems, involve your child in the process and explain the reasoning behind your choices. This can help them understand the importance of thinking critically and empower them to use those skills in their own lives.

Collaborating with Educators and Childcare Providers

Collaborating with your child’s educators and childcare providers is an essential component of building a cohesive approach to critical thinking development. By working together, you can support your child’s learning both inside and outside the classroom.

Attending parent-teacher conferences is an opportunity to discuss your child’s progress and gain insight into the critical thinking activities and strategies used in the classroom. You may learn about new techniques, resources, or experiences to incorporate into your home routine and build upon your child’s classroom learning.

Regular communication with your child’s educators and childcare providers is key to staying informed about their progress and addressing concerns or challenges that may arise. Share information about your child’s interests, accomplishments, and struggles so that they can tailor their approach and support your child’s critical thinking journey effectively.

Understanding the Development of Critical Thinking Skills

Recognizing that critical thinking skills develop gradually over time can help you set realistic expectations and adopt a patient, growth-focused approach. It’s also essential to be aware of developmentally-appropriate milestones and activities so that you can support your child’s cognitive growth effectively.

Even though each child is unique, understanding broad developmental milestones can give you a general idea of the progress your toddler should be making. From ages 3 to 5, children typically begin to develop the ability to organize and classify objects, understand cause-and-effect relationships, and ask “why” questions. Being mindful of these milestones can help you identify any potential issues and address them promptly.

As your child grows and develops, their critical thinking skills will evolve and deepen. Tailoring activities to their developmental stage will ensure that you continue to challenge and engage them in the learning process. By adjusting your expectations and offering age-appropriate critical thinking experiences, you provide the support and guidance necessary for your preschooler to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and concerns that parents often have regarding the development of critical thinking skills in preschoolers. We’ve compiled answers to help provide guidance and support as you embark on this exciting and essential aspect of your child’s early education.

There is no specific age when you should start teaching critical thinking skills to your child; however, the preschool years (ages 3-5) are a critical time for cognitive development. Introducing problem-solving, reasoning, and decision-making skills during this stage can help lay the groundwork for future learning and success.

Some indicators that your preschooler is developing critical thinking skills include their ability to ask questions, make connections between ideas or objects, consider different perspectives, and evaluate information. Keep in mind that every child develops at their own pace, and they may not exhibit all of these signs at once.

Yes, many age-appropriate activities and games can help promote critical thinking in preschoolers. These include puzzles, building and construction toys, imaginative play, and asking open-ended questions during reading time or everyday conversations.

Parents play a significant role in fostering critical thinking skills by creating a supportive learning environment, modeling critical thinking behaviors, and engaging their child in thought-provoking discussions and activities.

Collaborate with your child’s preschool teacher or childcare provider by maintaining open lines of communication, attending parent-teacher conferences, and discussing strategies for promoting critical thinking both at home and in the classroom.

Screen time can contribute to critical thinking development if it involves interactive, educational content designed for toddler education such as learning apps, games, or videos that promote problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Curiosity is essential for critical thinking because it drives children to explore their surroundings, ask questions, and seek new experiences. By nurturing their curiosity, you encourage a lifelong love of learning and help them develop the cognitive skills necessary for success in school and life.

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and skills can be developed through hard work and determination. Encouraging a growth mindset in your preschooler promotes the idea that they can improve their critical thinking skills by practicing and persevering, which can lead to a more confident and resilient learner.

While puzzle-solving is an excellent way to promote critical thinking by challenging preschoolers to analyze, strategize, and apply reasoning, it is not the only approach. Engaging in imaginative play, asking open-ended questions, and promoting cause and effect discussions are also effective methods for developing young minds.

If your child struggles with critical thinking activities, offer guidance and support, adapt the activities to their developmental level, and encourage them to persevere in the face of challenges. Remember to praise their effort and progress rather than focusing solely on successful outcomes.

When selecting a learning app for toddlers, look for one that features interactive, age-appropriate activities designed to promote critical thinking skills. Additionally, ensure that the app is user-friendly, visually appealing, and safe for online use by young children.

Developmental milestones provide a general overview of the cognitive abilities your preschooler should be developing at their age. Being mindful of these milestones can help you identify any potential issues and address them in a timely manner. Keep in mind, however, that every child develops at their own pace.

If you have concerns about your child’s critical thinking development, consult with their preschool teacher, childcare provider, or a pediatrician for guidance and support. They can provide recommendations for further evaluation or intervention if needed.

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Nurturing Critical Thinking for Preschoolers

July 1, 2024

Unlock preschoolers' potential with critical thinking! Nurture curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning skills.

importance of critical thinking for preschoolers

Fostering Critical Thinking in Preschoolers

Developing critical thinking skills in preschoolers is crucial for their cognitive and intellectual growth. Critical thinking involves the ability to analyze information, think independently, solve problems, and make informed decisions. In this section, we will explore the importance of critical thinking and the role parents play in nurturing these skills.

Importance of Critical Thinking

Critical thinking skills are essential for preschoolers as they lay the foundation for lifelong learning and success. By encouraging critical thinking, children become active learners who can engage with the world around them. They learn to question, evaluate, and make connections between different pieces of information, fostering a deeper understanding of concepts and ideas.

importance of critical thinking for preschoolers

Critical thinking also enables preschoolers to develop problem-solving and decision-making skills. They learn to assess situations, consider multiple perspectives, and come up with creative solutions. These skills are valuable not only in academic settings but also in everyday life, where children encounter various challenges and decisions.

Role of Parents in Developing Skills

Parents play a vital role in nurturing critical thinking skills in preschoolers. By creating a home environment that welcomes questions, investigations, and open-ended discussions, parents can foster curiosity and critical thinking [1]. Encouraging children to explore, ask questions, and formulate predictions and hypotheses without immediate intervention promotes independent thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Modeling critical thinking is equally important. Parents can share their decision-making processes, explaining how they evaluate information and arrive at conclusions. By involving children in discussions and problem-solving activities, parents provide opportunities for them to practice critical thinking skills.

Researching information is a crucial aspect of critical thinking, especially in the digital age. Parents should encourage children to look up answers to their questions in reputable sources and teach them to verify information from multiple sources to distinguish between factual and misleading information [1].

Open-mindedness and social-emotional learning are also key components of critical thinking. Parents can expose children to diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences, fostering empathy, creativity, and effective communication. Engaging in role-playing activities and discussing others' opinions and experiences help children develop a broader perspective and understand different viewpoints.

In conclusion, fostering critical thinking skills in preschoolers is essential for their cognitive and intellectual development. By emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and creating an environment that encourages exploration, questioning, and independent thinking, parents can lay the groundwork for their child's future success.

Activities to Enhance Critical Thinking

To nurture critical thinking skills in preschoolers, engaging them in interactive and stimulating activities is essential. These activities not only promote cognitive development but also encourage curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Here are two effective ways to enhance critical thinking in preschoolers: group activities and stimulating curiosity and creativity.

Group Activities for Critical Thinking

Encouraging preschoolers to work in groups can introduce them to different approaches and ideas, fostering critical thinking abilities [2]. Activities such as cleaning up or cooking a meal together provide opportunities for collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. For example, assigning different tasks to each child and encouraging them to brainstorm and make decisions collectively helps develop critical thinking skills.

In addition, playing games that involve hiding objects and providing clues, such as "Hide the Thimble," can help preschoolers develop critical thinking skills by encouraging them to analyze information and make deductions. These activities stimulate their logical reasoning and problem-solving abilities while promoting teamwork and cooperation.

Stimulating Curiosity and Creativity

Stimulating curiosity and creativity is another effective way to enhance critical thinking skills in preschoolers. Activities that encourage them to ask questions, make predictions, and think deeply about various concepts foster critical thinking abilities [3]. Here are a few examples:

  • Guessing games : Engage preschoolers in guessing games where they have to identify objects or animals based on clues. This activity promotes observation, logical thinking, and problem-solving.
  • Creating menus : Encourage preschoolers to create menus for a pretend restaurant or a picnic. This activity prompts them to think about food choices, portion sizes, and preferences, fostering critical thinking and decision-making skills.
  • Food tasting : Introduce preschoolers to various flavors and textures by organizing a food tasting activity. This encourages them to think critically about their sensory experiences and express their preferences.
  • Browsing family photo albums : Explore family photo albums with preschoolers, discussing different events and memories. This activity promotes critical thinking by encouraging them to ask questions, make connections, and analyze the past.

Integrating a play-based STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) curriculum can also be beneficial for developing critical thinking skills in preschoolers [3]. Such a curriculum prompts preschoolers to work through problems systematically and apply information from various disciplines to find solutions. This approach fosters critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving abilities in a holistic manner.

By engaging preschoolers in group activities and providing opportunities for curiosity and creativity, parents and educators can effectively nurture critical thinking skills. These activities lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning and equip preschoolers with the cognitive abilities necessary for success in school and beyond.

Integrating Critical Thinking Skills

To effectively nurture critical thinking skills in preschoolers, it is important to provide them with opportunities for real-world applications and digital literacy in early education.

Real-World Applications

Integrating real-world applications into the learning experiences of preschoolers is a valuable way to foster critical thinking skills. By connecting concepts and skills to the world around them, children can understand the relevance and practicality of what they are learning. Real-world applications encourage preschoolers to think critically, problem-solve, and make connections between different subjects.

For example, engaging preschoolers in hands-on activities such as cooking, gardening, or building projects can help them develop critical thinking skills. Through these activities, children learn to follow instructions, make decisions, and analyze cause-and-effect relationships. Encouraging open-ended questions and discussions during these experiences can further enhance critical thinking abilities.

Digital Literacy in Early Education

In today's digital age, teaching digital literacy is essential for fostering critical thinking in early childhood education. Digital literacy involves the ability to find, evaluate, and use information effectively and responsibly in a digital environment. It helps children develop the skills they need to navigate the vast amount of information available online and think critically about the content they encounter.

Teaching digital literacy can involve activities such as guiding preschoolers to research information from reputable sources and teaching them to verify information from multiple sources to distinguish between factual and misleading information. Additionally, incorporating technology into classroom activities can promote critical thinking. For example, using word processors or digital image-making tools allows children to merge and revise ideas, fostering creativity and critical composing.

Integrating technology in early childhood education also supports outdoor learning, interactivity, motivation, physical activity, and critical thinking. For instance, using tools like a metal detector can help children develop critical thinking by testing ideas, operating tools with precision, and enhancing spatial awareness.

By incorporating real-world applications and digital literacy into early childhood education, educators can provide preschoolers with opportunities to develop and apply critical thinking skills in meaningful ways. These skills lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning and equip children with the ability to think critically and engage with the world around them.

Impact of Early Childhood Education

Early childhood education (ECE) plays a significant role in the development of young minds, providing a strong foundation for lifelong learning and social-emotional growth. During the critical period of brain development in early childhood, children experience rapid cognitive, emotional, and physical growth, which paves the way for greater learning capabilities.

Foundation for Lifelong Learning

Quality early childhood education programs focus on cultivating critical thinking skills in young children. By incorporating problem-solving tasks and encouraging exploration of their surroundings, these programs help develop children's ability to reason and think critically. Through imaginative play, children are encouraged to explore their curiosity and develop a sense of wonder, which enhances their cognitive development.

Moreover, early childhood education recognizes the individuality of each child's cognitive development. Educators create inclusive environments that cater to diverse learning needs. By providing differentiated instruction tailored to various learning styles, teachers ensure that all children have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full cognitive potential.

Social and Emotional Growth

Early childhood education not only promotes cognitive development but also plays a crucial role in fostering social and emotional growth. Free play is an essential component of this growth as it allows children to explore their emotions, develop creativity, and practice social interactions. Through free play, children learn important social skills such as negotiation, compromise, and empathy.

Studies indicate that children with well-developed social and emotional abilities during their early years tend to achieve greater academic success as they grow older. Additionally, they experience fewer mental health concerns, highlighting the importance of social and emotional skills in early childhood education.

By providing a foundation for lifelong learning and fostering social-emotional growth, early childhood education sets the stage for children's future success. It equips them with the necessary skills and abilities to navigate the complexities of the world and excel academically, socially, and emotionally. The impact of quality early childhood education cannot be overstated, as it shapes the trajectory of a child's development and prepares them for a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Research Insights on Critical Thinking

To gain a deeper understanding of the impact and strategies related to developing critical thinking skills in preschoolers, let's explore some research insights in this area.

Educator Strategies for Development

According to Murawski's study published in the Journal of Learning in Higher Education in 2014, educators play a vital role in fostering critical thinking skills in students. The study emphasizes that educators who teach critical thinking provide students with control over their learning process. This approach leads to more effective learning, challenging questions, and increased participation [6].

Implementing strategies such as open-ended questioning, problem-solving activities, and encouraging independent thinking can help educators cultivate critical thinking abilities in preschoolers. By creating a supportive and stimulating learning environment, educators can inspire children to analyze information, evaluate different perspectives, and develop their own thoughts and ideas.

Studies on Critical Thinking Skills

A study conducted by Rider and Thomason in 2014 demonstrated the effectiveness of argument maps in enhancing critical thinking skills. The use of argument maps improves students' ability to understand and critique arguments, enhances their reading and writing skills, and promotes clearer thinking [6]. Incorporating visual tools like argument maps into educational activities can aid in the development of logical reasoning and the ability to construct and deconstruct arguments.

Furthermore, Abduljaleel Alwali's study highlighted the positive impact of critical thinking on various aspects of high school students' development. The study revealed that developing critical thinking skills positively influences perception, individuality, general analytical skills, academic performance, metacognition, practical applications of theoretical knowledge, and decision-making [6]. These findings emphasize the far-reaching benefits of nurturing critical thinking abilities from an early age.

Additionally, Loes et al.'s 2016 study emphasized the importance of diverse experiences in developing critical thinking skills. The study revealed that students are more likely to engage in complex thought processes when encountering new and unique situations. Exposing preschoolers to a range of experiences and perspectives can support the development of critical thinking skills by fostering adaptability and encouraging exploration of alternative solutions.

By implementing effective strategies and drawing insights from these studies, educators and parents can create an environment that nurtures critical thinking skills in preschoolers. These skills lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning, empowering children to think critically, solve problems creatively, and make informed decisions.

[1]: https://tenderheartedteacher.com/critical-thinking-skills-in-children/

‍ [2]: https://www.atlasmission.com/blog/10-preschool-critical-thinking-activities-my-preschooler-loves/

‍ [3]: https://www.kids-konnect.com/blog/critical-thinking-skills-for-preschoolers-4-fun-activities-to-try-at-home

‍ [4]: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-critical-thinking-important-early-childhood-michael-hilkemeijer/

‍ [5]: https://www.apu.apus.edu/area-of-study/education/resources/why-is-early-childhood-education-important-for-children/

‍ [6]: https://kidskonnect.com/articles/critical-thinking-for-kids/

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