Skip to main content

Brainstorm More Than One Option

Short summary: The first idea is not always the best idea. Brainstorming gives your brain more choices to compare.

Big idea​

One option feels like a trap. Two options create a choice. Three or more options let you compare and pick a good one. Brainstorming is how you get more options before you decide.

Why it matters​

When kids see only one path, they often feel stuck or do something they regret. Having a few options — even silly ones — reminds the brain that there is more than one way forward. It also lowers the pressure to be "right" on the first try.

Kid-friendly explanation​

Imagine you are only allowed one tool to fix everything: just a hammer. Some jobs would go badly. Brainstorming is like opening the whole toolbox first, then choosing the tool that fits.

One important rule: separate idea-making from idea-judging. First collect ideas without saying "that's dumb." Some ideas are "not now" ideas, not bad ideas. You judge them after you have a few.

Tool: at least three options​

Try to come up with at least three:

  1. Easy option — the simplest thing to try.
  2. Brave option — something that takes a little courage.
  3. Weird option — a silly or surprising idea.
  4. Ask-for-help option — who could help with this?

Activity: Three Ways​

Pick an everyday problem and list at least three possible next steps before choosing:

  • You forgot a library book.
  • Your code has an error.
  • Your friend misunderstood your message.
  • You want something that costs more than you have.
  • Your group disagrees about a plan.

Say all the ideas first. Judge them after.

Discussion questions​

  • Why can having only one option feel like a trap?
  • What happens to ideas when people judge them too fast?
  • Can a weird idea ever lead to a good one?
  • When is "ask for help" a smart option, not a last resort?

Try it this week​

Next time you feel stuck, name three possible options out loud before you pick one — including one weird one.

Adult note​

During brainstorming, resist the urge to crush weird ideas early. Collect first, evaluate second. A child who feels safe sharing a silly idea will share more useful ones too.