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(Unit 8) Topic 1: The Whole Child 

4 Clock Hours of Early Childhood Education

Preschool Logic and Reasoning

​Topic 1 Page 19

​Preschool children ask tons of questions and some of these questions are in response to rules or expectations set by adults.

While our adult mind may perceive this questioning as disrespectful, in fact it is a preschooler’s attempt at making sense of something that they are unsure of. Preschool children are genuinely interested in the “why” and the “how” about nearly everything around them. This stage of questioning is often joked about with educators and caregivers, but it is another normal step in development that gives the child more information. 

Preschoolers are unable to understand the details and the reasons behind rules, expectations, and even some procedures. This is simply due to having limited information about their world, though they are constantly learning more. While you are fully aware of the reasoning behind handwashing after using the restroom, a preschooler may argue the habit due to a simple lack of understanding. Explain the reasoning in simple terms to give the child the most benefit and better chance of understanding.  

Early childhood educators should strive to include practice in logic and reasoning by conversation, activities, and different experiences. This supports development by allowing a child practice at developing the necessary skills to begin to reason out answers on their own. The preschool child may need repeated exposure and practice with certain tasks and concepts in order to fully understand the reasoning behind the “why.”  

​Some suggestions for supporting preschool logic and reasoning:

Let them make mistakes
As much as adults want to shield children from negative feelings and emotions, it is important to allow children to make mistakes and experience victories through trial and error.

Build on curiosity
If you notice that a child seems interested in plants, you can give them a bean to plant and watch it grow. Throughout the process you can facilitate their discoveries and their curiosity.

Add challenges
When children are putting items away ask them to classify them. If the weather suddenly turns before recess, ask them what outdoor clothing they may need now.

(Unit 8) Topic 1: The Whole Child ​ * Navigation Menu