How Private Schools Foster Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

As a parent, you want your child to succeed not just in school, but in life. At Las Vegas Day School, we’ve seen firsthand since 1961 how critical thinking and problem-solving skills make all the difference in a child’s educational journey. These aren’t just academic buzzwords – they’re the real-world abilities that help your child tackle challenges, adapt to new situations, and thrive in an ever-changing world.
 

Why Are Critical Thinking Skills Important for Your Child’s Future?

 
Critical thinking means your child can analyze information, spot problems, and find solutions independently. Rather than simply memorizing facts, children who think critically understand why those facts matter and how to apply them.

These skills directly impact your child’s:

• Academic success (from elementary through college)
• Future career opportunities
• Ability to navigate real-world challenges
• Confidence in making good decisions
• Success in relationships and social situations

 
Research shows that students who develop strong critical thinking skills early on are better prepared for higher education and future career success. As Las Vegas’s first non-sectarian private elementary school, we’ve maintained our commitment to developing these essential skills for more than six decades.
 

How Do Private Schools Teach Critical Thinking Skills?

 
At Las Vegas Day School, we don’t just lecture – we engage your child through proven teaching methods that make learning active and meaningful:

Learning Through Questions and Discovery

Your child’s natural curiosity is the perfect starting point for learning. Our teachers guide students to ask thoughtful questions and discover answers themselves. This approach is much more effective than simply telling them what to memorize.

For example, in our elementary science classes, rather than just teaching that plants need sunlight, students might conduct experiments with plants in different light conditions, recording observations and drawing their own conclusions.

Real-World Projects That Matter

We believe children learn best by doing. That’s why we incorporate projects based on real-world situations that require your child to apply what they’ve learned in practical ways.

In our Middle School program, students take on challenging projects that develop both academic knowledge and practical skills they’ll use throughout their lives. These hands-on experiences help concepts stick far better than textbook learning alone.

Learning Matched to Your Child’s Needs

Every child learns differently. With our small class sizes (never more than 20 students per class with both a teacher and an aide), we can tailor our teaching approach to match your child’s unique strengths and learning style. This personalized attention helps each student develop critical thinking skills at their own pace.
 

What Curriculum Best Develops Problem-Solving Abilities?

 
Our curriculum is designed to challenge students appropriately while building the skills they need to succeed. Unlike public schools that must rigidly follow standardized curricula, we have the flexibility to adapt our teaching approach to best serve our students.

Our elementary program includes:

• A STEM program integrating technology-based mathematics and science
• English Language Arts curriculum that’s one year above grade level
• Subjects that connect with each other, helping students see the bigger picture
• Real-world applications that show students why what they’re learning matters

 
For our Middle School students, we offer a departmentalized curriculum with specialized instructors for each subject. High-achieving eighth-graders even have opportunities to earn high school credits in subjects like Computer Literacy, Algebra I Honors, and Spanish I Honors.
 

Does Class Size Really Make a Difference in Learning?

 
Yes! One of the biggest advantages we offer at Las Vegas Day School is our small class sizes. With never more than 20 students per class and both a teacher and an aide present, your child receives the personal attention they deserve.

In our smaller classroom setting:

• Teachers can spot when your child needs extra help or is ready for more challenges
• Students feel more comfortable asking questions and participating in discussions
• Teachers can use more interactive, hands-on learning methods
• Each child’s unique learning style can be accommodated
• More meaningful teacher-student relationships develop, building confidence

 
This personalized approach simply isn’t possible in crowded classrooms where teachers must focus on managing large groups rather than individual learning needs.
 

Which After-School Activities Build Problem-Solving Skills?

 
Learning doesn’t stop when the school day ends. At Las Vegas Day School, we offer a variety of extracurricular activities that further develop critical thinking skills while allowing your child to explore their interests:

• Clubs and activities starting from second grade help students discover new passions
• Competitive sports programs for middle school students teach teamwork and strategic thinking
• Arts programs develop creative problem-solving and self-expression
• Study hall options available until 6:00 PM provide a structured environment for completing homework (perfect for busy working parents)

 
These activities don’t just keep your child engaged after school—they build confidence, teach perseverance, and develop social skills that complement classroom learning.
 

How Do School Resources Enhance Learning?

 
Your child deserves the best educational tools and environment. Our campus features:

• Modern, well-equipped classrooms
• Science and computer labs with up-to-date technology
• Extensive playgrounds and athletic facilities
• Two gymnasiums and an athletic field
• A track for physical education and sports

 
We’re committed to providing high-quality educational resources, textbooks, and technology that enhance your child’s learning experience. Our recent campus master plan culminated in 2016 with the opening of our middle school gymnasium and athletic field, completing our state-of-the-art 135,000 square foot campus across 17 acres.
 

How Can Parents Support Critical Thinking at Home?

 
As a parent, you play a crucial role in developing your child’s thinking skills. At Las Vegas Day School, we believe in strong school-family partnerships that reinforce learning.

Simple ways you can help at home:

• Ask your child open-ended questions about their day
• Encourage them to explain their reasoning when making decisions
• Involve them in family problem-solving (“How should we organize this space?”)
• Play games that require strategy and planning
• Show interest in their school projects and discussions

 
Studies indicate that when parents engage in thoughtful discussions with their children at home, critical thinking skills improve significantly. Our school community fosters these connections, with many of our students being second or even third-generation Las Vegas Day School families.
 

Beyond Tests: How Do We Measure Real Learning?

 
While traditional tests have their place, they don’t tell the whole story of your child’s learning. At Las Vegas Day School, we use multiple assessment approaches to get a complete picture of your child’s development:

• Project-based assessments that demonstrate real understanding
• Ongoing evaluation throughout the year, not just at test time
• Skills-based assessments that measure critical thinking directly
• Meaningful feedback that helps your child grow

 
This comprehensive approach helps us understand not just what your child knows, but how well they can apply that knowledge—the true measure of learning.
 

Why Choose Las Vegas Day School for Your Child?

 
Since 1961, we’ve been committed to providing an exceptional education to Las Vegas families. Our unique approach combines:

• A strong traditional academic foundation that prepares students for future success
• Small class sizes with personalized attention
• Experienced and highly qualified educators with low staff turnover
• A tuition-only model that ensures equality among all students (no fundraising required)
• A proven track record of successful graduates accepted into prestigious high schools and universities

 
What truly sets us apart is our family atmosphere. Many of our current students are children or even grandchildren of Las Vegas Day School alumni. The sons of our founders, Helen and Jack Daseler, still work at the school today alongside third-generation family members, creating a legacy of quality education that spans generations.
 

Ready to See the Difference for Your Child?

 
The best way to understand what makes Las Vegas Day School special is to visit our campus and see our approach in action. We invite you to schedule a personal tour to experience our learning environment firsthand and learn how we can help your child develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills they’ll need for a successful future.

Contact our Admissions Director, Judy L. Meese at 702-362-1180 to arrange your visit today.

Las Vegas Day School – Quality Private School Education in Las Vegas, Nevada Since 1961