How to Question Everything: A Kids' Toolkit for Critical Thinking
If you don’t know your vloggers from your infographics but were too embarrassed to ask, then this book is the perfect tonic for you. The title is not misleading – this guide truly covers everything, from fake news to online safety. It is an essential resource for readers of all ages, and everyone will learn something from it. However, with its clear, accessible, and child friendly language, it is bound to become a necessity in every home and classroom.
The author tackles a wide range of topics, but of particular value is the practical support offered to children undertaking school projects. She explains how to find trusted sources of information, how to evaluate what an article is really saying, and how to see the bigger picture. Throughout the book, the reader is encouraged to ‘ask yourself’ whether what they are reading is accurate or reliable. For example, can you recognise when an image has been edited to make a product more appealing or to push a specific advertising message? The book also includes enjoyable, interactive activities, such as turning a sensationalised headline into a responsible one, or even investigating a crime! These tasks not only entertain but also build essential critical‑thinking skills.
Children have always grown up hearing harmless lies from adults, told to protect their innocence. But today’s environment is different: adults must now teach children how to spot the truth amid a barrage of constant content. Parents and teachers can no longer hand over a phone or tablet without offering guidance about what a child may encounter online and how it could potentially be harmful. This book will certainly ease the worries of parents while giving children the tools they need to navigate digital information responsibly. Critical research has always been a valuable skill—now, it is an absolute necessity.
