Problem Solution Match
Problem Solution Match
A simple matching game that helps kids connect everyday problems with helpful choices
Why Problem Solution Match Works
Problem Solution Match gives children a calm, playful way to think through behavior challenges before they happen. Instead of only reacting in the moment, kids get to practice matching a problem with a better choice.
This helps children see that problems are not the same as punishments. A problem is something to solve. When kids learn that spilled milk can be cleaned up, a grabbed toy can be returned, and a frustrated feeling can be named, they begin building practical self-control.
The activity also supports emotional regulation, language development, empathy, and decision-making. Children practice noticing what went wrong, naming what could help, and choosing an action that repairs or improves the situation.
What You Need
You can play with homemade cards, drawings, or simple spoken examples. A few basic supplies can make the matching game easier to repeat.
Skills Built
This activity supports behavior growth by helping children slow down, think, and connect actions with better outcomes.
- Problem-solving: Children practice choosing a helpful response to a common challenge.
- Self-control: Kids learn to pause before reacting.
- Repair skills: Children see how to fix small mistakes in kind, practical ways.
- Emotional language: Kids name feelings and needs connected to behavior.
- Flexible thinking: Children learn that there is often more than one good solution.
How to Play Problem Solution Match
- Make simple problem cards. Draw or write everyday problems, such as “toy taken,” “milk spilled,” “waiting is hard,” or “someone feels sad.”
- Make solution cards. Add helpful choices, such as “ask for a turn,” “clean it up,” “take a breath,” “say sorry,” or “get help.”
- Lay out two or three problems. Start small so your child does not feel overwhelmed.
- Read one problem together. Say, “Uh-oh, this happened. What could help?”
- Pick a solution card. Let your child match the problem with a helpful choice.
- Act it out briefly. Practice the matched solution with a toy, puppet, or parent role-play.
- Celebrate the match. Say, “That solution helps fix the problem.”
Parent Prompts for Better Problem-Solving
Keep prompts warm, simple, and curious. The goal is not to quiz your child, but to help them practice thinking through behavior choices.
- “What is the problem in this card?”
- “How might this person feel?”
- “What could help make it better?”
- “Which solution is kind?”
- “Which solution helps fix the mistake?”
- “Should we try acting it out?”
- “Can you think of another solution?”
Easy Variations for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Two-Choice Match
Offer one problem and two possible solutions. This is a great version for younger toddlers who need fewer choices.
Puppet Problem Match
Let a puppet “have” the problem. Your child can choose a solution card to help the puppet fix it.
Real-Life Replay
After a small real-life conflict, revisit the moment later with cards. Ask, “What problem happened? What solution could help next time?”
Kind Choice Match
Focus only on social problems, such as sharing, taking turns, using gentle hands, or helping someone feel included.
Fix-It Match
Use problems that involve mistakes, such as spilling, knocking something over, grabbing, yelling, or refusing. Match each one with a repair action.
Make It Easier or Harder
For Younger Toddlers
- Use picture cards instead of written words.
- Offer only one problem and two solution choices.
- Model the answer first: “The cup spilled. We can wipe it up.”
- Use familiar problems from daily routines.
For Older Preschoolers
- Ask your child to explain why the solution helps.
- Invite them to create their own problem cards.
- Compare two possible solutions and choose the kinder one.
- Practice matching one problem with multiple helpful solutions.
- Act out the problem, solution, and repair step.
Common Questions About Problem Solution Match
What age is Problem Solution Match best for?
This activity works well for ages 2–6. Younger children can match simple picture cards, while older preschoolers can explain their choices and act out solutions.
Does this activity help with behavior?
Yes. Problem Solution Match helps children practice calm decision-making, repair skills, flexible thinking, and positive behavior choices before conflicts happen.
Can I use real problems from our day?
Absolutely. Real examples make the activity more meaningful. Just revisit them later when everyone is calm, not in the middle of a meltdown.
How long should the activity last?
Most children do well with 10–15 minutes. For toddlers, even two or three matches can be enough.
Quick Recap
Problem Solution Match is a simple behavior and discipline activity that helps toddlers and preschoolers connect everyday problems with helpful choices. Children practice problem-solving, self-control, repair, empathy, and flexible thinking through playful matching and role-play.