Why is decision-making an important skill to learn?

Decision-making and problem-solving goes together. One cannot be done without the other.

Thus both skills should be mastered to be effective. Decisions could be something small or have a big impact on our lives especially as kids get older and make choices about their morals/values and career paths.

The decision-making process improves with maturity and experience.

Types of decisions

• Making no decision: Kids then allow their peers/siblings/parents/other adults to make decisions for them

• Making impulsive decisions: Kids sometimes take no time to consider the options – our impulsive/ADHD kids really struggle with making an impulsive decision and regretting their actions later. Kids sometimes respond emotionally and not rationally (thinking about it cognitively)

• Making responsible decisions: Kids you use this way think about the consequences for them and those around them

Steps in making decisions

This forms an integral part of problem-solving and vice versa.

• Identify the problem: Break the problem down into smaller steps. Is it just my problem or is other kids/people involved?

• Time for introspection: Ask yourself: What do I want?. Is this in line with my morals/values? (for older kids). How will this decision affect me?. How will this decision affect others?. Will the problem be solved if I choose this decision?

• Find more solutions: If the kids first choice isn’t effective/doesn’t satisfied me/is harmful to others/is against my moral and values (for older kids) or doesn’t solve the problem I have to think of more decision-options

• Make a choice

• Implement the decision: Remind the child that they need to take responsibility for their choice and the effect it has on himself and others

• Was the decision successful: Did it meet the needs/values/morals of the child?. Did it solve the problem?. If not – make another decision

How can I help my child?

• Go through the above mentioned decision making process with your child
• Allow your child to make their own decision
• Allow your child to fail (in a protected environment)
• Only help your child if they ask for your help or if you see the outcome will be hurtful to himself/herself or others
• Guide your child rather than making the decision for him/her
• Role-play: make up hypothetical situations and see which decision your child will make
• Read them stories where decisions was made and what the consequences was
• Set a good example when you as parents has to make a decision – admit when you made the wrong decision
• Practice – experience – responsibility – maturity