By teaching critical thinking to a child, a parent can open up his or her eyes to things that had never before been apparent. This can be taught through a variety of ways, such as crafting a response to a literary work, doing research on various sources, or, perhaps one of the most powerful means, asking kids to place themselves on the opposite side of their own viewpoint and arguing from that stance. 

By developing this sense of empathy, they can develop an appreciation of how others might view the world and step outside their own egocentrism a bit.

Critical thinking skills can even begin at an early age. Asking a child what might come next in a new book, what he or she believes fair consequences might be for rule-breaking or even creative questions such as “What do you think your puppy is thinking?” can help children start to think about their world in a more creative and critical fashion.

 Brain games, such as logic puzzles, may also be helpful when age-appropriate.

This is not to say that originality and personal opinions should be discarded; on the countrary, children should be encouraged to be their own authentic selves, though within some degree of societal expectation. 

For example, a teen may wish to wear very revealing clothing or swear profusely. While this might be acceptable in some situations—depending on your family’s values and beliefs—it is not appropriate for many other public settings.

Hence, it is up to the teen to evaluate his or her decisions and critically analyze how he or she can maintain a sense of authenticity in and out of the home. This exercise promotes independent thought as well as problem-solving skills, and gives him or her a sense of accomplishment and responsibility for his or her own actions. 

Try asking questions like, “Would you wear this outfit at a funeral? How about a club? How are the two different?” It’s important to maintain a neutral tone of voice during this discussion to promote a positive exchange—and to let the child know he or she is not being criticized.

When a child is respected and has his or her own thoughts and opinions accepted, he or she is more likely to progress with critical thinking, debate and discern his or her own values, and develop a sense of personal responsibility. 

Critical thinking is one thing that kids seem to be learning less and less about in school, especially with such a concentrated effort on memorizing rote material for standardized testing. By allowing debate, discussion and healthy conversation, as well as the opportunity to be unique and expressive, a parent can help his or her child become prepared for the world at large.