Why Teach This Early?
Project management develops planning, organization, and follow-through. Children who learn to manage projects develop executive function skills. These skills transfer to schoolwork, hobbies, and eventually careers. Start with small projects and build complexity.
Progressive Sub-Goals
Introduction
Plans and executes a multi-step personal project
💡 Tip: Start with a project they choose - ownership drives motivation.
Developing
Manages a small group project
💡 Tip: Let them lead a family project - vacation planning, party organizing.
Mastery
Uses a simple project management tool
💡 Tip: Introduce Trello or a simple Kanban board - visual progress is motivating.
Teaching Tips
- 1Break big projects into small, achievable steps
- 2Teach estimation - how long will this take?
- 3Celebrate milestones along the way
- 4Debrief after projects - what went well, what would you change?
Learning Resources
Related Skills to Explore
#11 Object Permanence
Cognitive & Strategic • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Tracks objects with eyes as they move
#12 Sensory Exploration
Cognitive & Strategic • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Explores objects with hands and mouth
#13 Cause & Effect Understanding
Cognitive & Strategic • Age 0 (0-12 months)
Accidentally discovers actions have effects
#151 Full Meal Preparation
Kitchen & Food • Ages 6-8
Plans and cooks a simple, complete meal
#152 Baking from Scratch
Kitchen & Food • Ages 6-8
Bakes bread or cake from scratch
#153 Advanced Home Maintenance
Practical Life • Ages 6-8
Safely uses a power drill