Computational Thinking for Preschoolers: Nurturing Creative Thinkers and Problem Solvers
Big Thinking for Little Thinkers
Computational thinking (CT) helps young children make sense of problems, recognize patterns, and plan solutions. These early thinking skills, like curiosity, logic, and creativity, help children make sense of their world and lay the groundwork for future learning. When educators nurture CT through play and exploration, they help children develop confidence as thinkers and problem solvers.
Inside you’ll gain:
- Clear explanations of the four core CT skills: decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking, and how they appear in play and problem-solving
- Practical examples for integrating CT into storytelling, routines, and learning centers
- Guidance for introducing coding and sequencing concepts through hands-on, screen-free activities
- Reflection prompts and next steps to strengthen practice and communicate the value of CT to families and colleagues
Grounded in research and real classroom practice, Computational Thinking for Preschoolers bridges the gap between theory and practice, giving educators the tools and confidence to bring computational thinking to life. With clear guidance and ready-to-use ideas, it turns everyday play into purposeful exploration that sparks curiosity, deeper thinking, and powerful problem solving.
Additional Information
Additional Information
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
- About the Author
- Acknowledgments
-
Introduction
- Who Is This Book For?
- About the Book
-
Chapter 1: Computational Thinking in Early Childhood
- What Computational Thinking Is and Its Origins
- Debunking Myths About Computational Thinking
- Major Computational Thinking Skills and Their Use in Problem Solving
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Computational Thinking in Action in a Preschool Setting
- Creating Teachable Moments to Address Challenges
- Enhancing Children’s Success in Problem Solving
- Conclusion
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Chapter 2: A Closer Look at Computational Thinking Skills
- Understanding Connections to the Cognitive and Social and Emotional Domains
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Computational Thinking Skills
- Decomposition
- Pattern Recognition
- Abstraction
- Algorithmic Thinking
- When to Step Back and When to Step In
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Questions as Tools to Enhance Children’s Computational Thinking
- Questions That Encourage Problem Solving
- Questions That Involve Ordinal Language
- Questions That Incorporate Locational and Directional Language
- Questions That Encourage Children’s Expression of Thought
- Conclusion
-
Chapter 3: Unplugged Learning Experiences
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Daily Routines
- Morning Circle or Whole Group Time
- Snack Time
- Cleanup Time
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Learning Centers and Other Areas in the Early Learning Setting
- Literacy Learning Center
- Math Learning Center
- Block Center
- Science Learning Center
- Dramatic Play Center
- Art Learning Center
- Outdoor Play Area
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Targeted CT Learning Experiences
- I’m a Robot and I’m a Programmer
- Mystery Bag
- The Fastest Way
- Secret Codes
- Mapping and Treasure Hunting
- Conclusion
-
Daily Routines
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Chapter 4: Coding Using Stories as a Framework
- Making Coding Meaningful in Early Childhood
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How to Code Using Stories
- Step One: Select or Create a Story
- Step Two: Create a Picture Card for Each Major Narrative Event
- Step Three: Arrange the Picture Cards to Establish the Narrative’s Sequence
- Step Four: Create a Coding Grid
- Step Five: Place the Picture Cards on the Coding Grid in a Random Order
- Step Six: Navigate a Pathway on the Coding Grid
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CT Terms and Other Language Commonly Used When Coding Using Stories
- Sequential Words
- Directional Words
- Algorithm
- Debug
- Loop
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Ideas for Extending This Learning Experience
- Local Maps
- Programmable Robots
- Block-Based Coding Programs
- Conclusion
-
Chapter 5: What’s Next? Calls to Action for Educators
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Keep Learning and Growing
- Practice Effective Strategies
- Improve Through Professional Development
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Create Opportunities for Education and Connection
- Partner with Families
- Involve the Community
-
Advocate for Computational Thinking
- Collaborate with Administrators
- Engage with Policymakers
- Conclusion
-
Keep Learning and Growing
- References
- Index
Book Details
Book Details
Product Code: 1175
ISBN: 978-1-952331-03-9
Publish Date: 2026
Citation (in Chicago 18th ed. style):
Lee, J. 2026. Computational Thinking for Preschoolers: Nurturing Creative Thinkers and Problem Solvers. NAEYC.
Reviews
After reading this book, teachers will come away with an understanding of how computational thinking skills can be used to draw on children’s natural abilities to explore and play. It clearly demonstrates—with concrete, developmentally appropriate, accessible classroom activities—how computational thinking in unplugged contexts is different from general problem solving and gives children the tools they need to become systematic and creative thinkers.
—Marisa Wolsky, Executive Producer and Director of Children’s STEM Media, GBH Kids
Dr. Lee inspires early learning educators with innovative strategies that blend creativity with practical steps in computational thinking. Throughout this must-have resource for teachers and administrators, her passion will ignite young learners’ natural skills and help teachers inspire curiosity, confidence, and lasting foundations for success.
—Mark J. Davis, Educator, Media Education Lab
Joohi Lee explains how educators can create an engaging and encouraging environment that supports developmentally appropriate computational thinking in young children. Readers will welcome the informative and rich descriptions of how playful invitations for learning can nurture problem solving and innovation while understanding the pedagogy behind this exciting practice.
—Deanna Pecaski McLennan, Elementary Educator, Greater Essex County District School Board, and author of Embracing Math
This book is seed for growing computational thinking (CT) in preschool classrooms. Joohi Lee tells us how thoughtfully planted seeds sprout pattern recognition, abstraction, algorithmic thinking, decomposition—and how planting actual seeds can support young children’s CT development!
—Candace Joswick, Associate Professor, The University of Texas at Arlington
An inspiring and deeply practical guide that bridges the gap between research and practice. This book shows how to embed computational thinking into everyday learning to empower young learners to become confident and creative problem-solvers for life.
—Heather Lavigne, Senior Research Scientist, Education Development Center
