Developing Critical Thinking Skills in Kids: Top Critical Thinking Books
Critical thinking allows children to think independently, taking into account factual evidence and rational analysis. It makes room for mental growth and lifelong learning. It also helps kids
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Interlink ideas and information
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Make rational choices
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Solve problems creatively
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Perform better academically
Children tend to learn through trial and error. However, with the right resources and guidance, you can develop critical thinking skills in kids.
Here are some critical thinking books that would certainly help.
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What to Do With a Box
- By Jane Yolen
‘What to Do With a Box’ is a charming critical thinking book that encourages children to wonder and question what all can be done with a cardboard box. It is all about using critical thinking to bring creative ideas to life.
Reading Age
6 to 8 years -
Big Ideas for Curious Minds: An Introduction to Philosophy
- By The School of Life
Children ask the toughest questions, sometimes even the meaning of it all. Big Ideas for Curious Minds is a wonderful children’s book that promotes critical thinking and nurtures kids’ philosophical instincts. It takes them through the ideas of the great thinkers from different eras, such as Buddha, Socrates, Aristotle, Friedrich Nietzsche, and many more. Moreover, it is filled with attractive illustrations and exercises for kids.
Reading Age
9 to 12 years -
101 Brain Booster Activity Book: Fun Activity Book for Children
- By Wonder House Books
101 Brain Booster is one of the best books on critical thinking. It consists of puzzles, educational games, and fun activities that also help kids develop motor skills. Moreover, the colourful and engaging illustrations promote relaxation and creativity.
Reading Age
6 to 10 years -
Your Fantastic Elastic Brain: Stretch It, Shape It
- By JoAnn Deak
It’s always good to have an awareness and understanding of our own brain and its thought process. Author JoAnna Deak simplifies the functioning of the brain in this super interesting children’s book Your Fantastic Elastic Brain. It focuses on how kids can ‘stretch’ and shape their brain through new knowledge, mistakes, and practice.
Reading Age
4 to 8 years -
The Thingamabob
- By Il Sung Na
The Thingamabob is a delightful and straightforward critical thinking book that tells the story of an elephant and how he uses critical thinking to figure out what the mysterious red object is. The elephant character also asks a lot of questions prompting children to think and engage.
Reading Age
3 to 7 years -
The Most Magnificent Thing
- By Ashley Spires
Through this funny critical thinking book, author Ashley Spires gives a perfect example of how passion and creativity can be rewarding.
Reading Age
3 to 7 years -
Going Places
- By Peter and Paul Reynolds
Going Places is one of the top-rated critical thinking books for kids that consists of a story of children who won a go-cart contest by thinking creatively and outside the box. The book is a pleasure to read and features the stunning artwork of New York Times bestselling illustrator Peter H. Reynolds.
Reading Age
4 to 8 years -
On A Beam of Light – A Story of Albert Einstein
- By Jennifer Berne
On a Beam of Light is another interesting children’s book that promotes critical thinking. It talks about the powerful difference our imagination can make in life.
Reading Age
5 to 8 years -
Rosie Revere, Engineer (The Questioneers)
- By Andrea Beaty
One of the best books on critical thinking is about a girl, Rosie, who becomes an engineer and shows that everything is possible with creativity and persistence. What makes it even beautiful is its whimsical illustrations and rhyming verses.
Reading Age
5 years and up -
The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdos
- By Deborah Heiligman
This beautiful book reveals how passion can help develop an interest in science and math. It also encourages children to learn new things in a fun way.
Reading Age
3 to 8 years