The freshness that is carried through the curiosity of a child is wonderful to understand. A toddler starts his early years of development by exploring the world around him in pursuit of trying to unravel the secrets his mind wants to discover. What seems simple to us is certainly a complex task for him; thus, solving a simple problem is a great achievement that brings utter joy. This process of exploring and discovery allows these toddlers to grow with the basics of problem-solving skills.

They do this on rinse-and-repeat mode, day in and day out, only to become avid learners of life, which stems from their intrinsic need for survival of the fittest. However, as they grow, parents and the system around them either encourage this skill or discourage it without them even knowing. One of the main ways we do this in this generation is by allowing them to be hooked to screens, resolving all matters with the escapism of a device transmitting information that is perceived as pertinent to them. However, many times, from my observation, this information is pointless, used purely as a way to fill time so that those around them can get on with what they wish to do.

We are robbing children of reaching their true potential with this skill and many other talents they have when we feed them screens of any device.

The brain and its happy hormones

This biological machine is a powerhouse to reckon with. It is a complex and sophisticated tool that has brought mankind to the moon and back. Extremely revolutionary, this machine flows with the tides of time and updates its systems to be as advanced as its current surroundings without the need for software. This machine is no stranger to us—it is our brain. The brain is a glorious machine that needs many chemicals for its healthy functioning, neurotransmitters that communicate what you are experiencing clearly. Among the various chemicals, I always try to focus on hacking the four basic ones, which are known to be happy hormones.

Serotonin, dopamine, endorphins, and oxytocin are the primary signaling hormones that ensure the regulation of happiness within you. By now, I presume you already know what these hormones do precisely, but in any case, I will refresh your memory with simple descriptions. Starting with serotonin—this hormone helps balance your mood and promote well-being and reward. Dopamine, also known as the “feel-good” hormone, ensures feelings of happiness, pleasure, and reward. If you are looking for the hormone that is your body’s natural painkiller, it would be endorphins; they help you overcome stress and discomfort. You may be able to decipher what this last hormone does if you don’t know it already—it is commonly known as the “love hormone” or “cuddle chemical.”

This hormone, a neurotransmitter, is connected with empathy, trust, sexual activity, and relationship-building and is called oxytocin. Collectively, these neurotransmitters work to ensure the health of our minds. Each of these hormones has its own unique way of harnessing it. I will focus specifically on dopamine, the hormone and neurotransmitter with an interrelated connection to the process of problem-solving. A positive fact to take note of is that during and after the activity of solving a problem, your brain will profit from it.

image host Human Brain Mapping

The neuroscience of problem-solving

From the age of Neanderthals to our current times, problem-solving has been the driving force behind development. If our forefathers had not set out to analyze issues and use their intelligence to come up with solid resolutions, we would certainly have remained in geological times. The first inventions of writing systems were founded in prehistoric times; if this solution had not come about, we would not have had the possibility of entering the Mesolithic age, where the development of human technology took its leap, and the Neolithic age, which was a period of primitive social and technological development.

We then entered the Copper Age, where copper metallurgy was discovered and used alongside stone tools. After the Bronze Age, civilization was introduced to the prospect of written records in the Iron Age. This newfound progress emanated from what the prehistoric times had laid out as a foundation, and the ages that followed simply kept “solving the problems/issues” at hand until we were on the brink of another new discovery. The purpose of walking down memory lane is to practice active memory recall on how far we have come. Humans are hardwired to “enjoy” problem-solving naturally because of the reward that follows this process.

You have surely experienced the “light bulb” moment, or what scientists call the “Aha!” moment—when your mind is enlightened. This can come from reading something insightful or, better still, from the moment you reach a deeper understanding while solving a problem.

Recent findings published in the journal Human Brain Mapping suggest that “the rush of excitement that came with the moment of insight was produced by an influx of dopamine into a part of the brain called the nucleus accumbens. The nucleus accumbens was active throughout the process of problem-solving, but particularly so at the moment of insight. This part of the brain, in the basal forebrain, is part of the dopamine network that is triggered when we receive a reward. Dopamine signals to the rest of the brain information about emotion, memory processes, and levels of alertness,” explains Christian Windischberger, the lead investigator.

He further points out that “Apart from the activation of areas of alertness, language processing, and memory, our research results showed sudden and significantly greater activation of the nucleus accumbens when the solving of a puzzle is accompanied by an ‘Aha!’ moment and hence a moment of intense joy and relief.”

When we focus on what this moment of insight is, we need to understand that there are different types of problems. To summarize, there are linear and non-linear problems. Linear problems require one direct solution, while non-linear problems are complex and therefore have more than one solution, requiring different forms of thinking. These kinds of problems are cited as “insight problems,” requiring more creativity. There is a neural correlation to the process of problem-solving or insights.

Dopamine as a tool, not as a coping mechanism

Dopamine levels can be positively influenced by self-compassion, sufficient sleep, regular exercise, and the establishment of personal goals. In contrast, some individuals resort to superficial dopamine surges, which merely serve as fleeting gratification.

Authentic increases in dopamine can be achieved through engaging in complex problem-solving tasks that demand creative, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Although these surges may be ephemeral, it remains imperative to select our dopamine sources judiciously. Activities such as binge-watching television, aimless scrolling on social media, consuming unhealthy food, all-night gaming, procrastination, and relentless work without breaks exemplify false dopamine providers. By indulging in these pursuits, we inadvertently use dopamine as a coping mechanism, neglecting its intended purpose within our neurological framework. Just as practices like prayer, meditation, witnessing sunrises, mindfulness, yoga, and social interactions can effectively enhance dopamine levels, incorporating problem-solving into our routines should be prioritized. Not only does this approach replenish dopamine, but it also boosts serotonin—another neurotransmitter that functions similarly but lingers in the system for a more extended period.

Children, dopamine, and problem-solving

The neural consequences of problem-solving are unequivocal. Engaging in active problem-solving that necessitates significant creativity enhances dopamine production in the brain, which, in turn, elevates mood. A positive emotional state often facilitates the completion of daily tasks and the achievement of set goals, creating a straightforward yet powerful chain reaction. While problem-solving is an essential skill for adults, instilling this competency in children is crucial. It is vital to teach them to confront challenges rather than evade them, employing a combination of creativity, analytical reasoning, and critical thinking. Children, undoubtedly, represent the future; their upbringing will shape societal structures and values. Just as diseases begin at a cellular level and can become fatal to the host, children serve as the foundational elements of our larger societal configuration. Properly nurturing their problem-solving abilities will contribute to a more promising future.

If I have seen farther than others, it is because I have stood on the shoulders of giants.

(George Bernard )

It is our collective responsibility to guide children along the proper learning path, equipping them with problem-solving skills. Regrettably, many parents find it more convenient to occupy their children with screens, which often fosters an unhealthy mental state. Have you noticed that children exhibit irritability after prolonged device usage? This phenomenon occurs because dopamine levels drop. The information consumed during this passive engagement stifles the secretion of dopamine, leading to a one-dimensional experience that lacks both achievement and insight. Consequently, children receive input without any interactive feedback, diminishing the joy typically derived from activities that enhance pleasure, happiness, and a sense of accomplishment.

The cognitive benefits derived from problem-solving skills apply equally to both children and adults. These skills boost confidence as individuals consistently set and achieve goals, leading to improved decision-making abilities, enhanced leadership qualities, heightened concentration, and strengthened memory. Most importantly, fostering these skills contributes to a more optimistic mindset. The development of problem-solving skills within society collectively enhances mental well-being.

By committing to expose children to more problem-solving activities, we can significantly improve their brain function and overall health, facilitating balanced surges of the right neurochemicals. You may wonder what types of games would be suitable for children to promote these skills. Fortunately, a plethora of problem-solving games are available for children to enjoy.

In summary, fostering problem-solving skills in children is essential for their cognitive and emotional development. By engaging them in activities that challenge their creativity and critical thinking, we can help them unlock their full potential and build a strong foundation for future success.