Mental flexibility and response inhibition are two skills essential for the surprises and challenges in our every day lives. Integrating these into our time management struggles is a skill that can be difficult for many of us, especially for students who are neurodivergent.

A critical skill necessary for effective time management is flexibility.

Flexibility is an endlessly useful skill. It’s essential to remember, however, that skills are learned & practiced, not inherent. Skills are strengthened with practice.

I’m not talking about being able to do the splits or holding your leg behind your head, I mean being able to be flexible when plans change, even with short notice.

Modeling this behavior can be particularly useful. One of my favorite ways to think productively when plans go awry is to think, “How can I use this extra time I was just gifted?” We all get the same number of hours in a day, but how amazing is it to get a few unexpected minutes to enjoy a special treat, take a short walk, or catch up on that pressing task!

Many people, especially those who are neurodivergent, have difficulty with mental flexibility because the patterns they consistently utilize, although seemingly rigid, can often be calming to them. When there’s a minor hiccup in their expected schedule, it can feel like the rug has been ripped out from under them.

If this sounds like you or someone you love, remember that when this happens, to bring it back to the breath…take a few slow, full, and deep ones!…to focus and ground yourself. Have a talk with yourself (or your child) to help recognize that this is just a momentary blip, and the best you can do is use your time well. Give yourself a big pat on the back for that realization and have fun figuring out how to ‘rearrange’ your day!

Now, let’s talk about response inhibition.

It is normal for all humans to have big feelings, and especially children. But for neurodivergent students, sometimes seemingly small setbacks or changes can evoke an outsized response. So, how can we help them?

Finding a more appropriate space to have a big emotional response can be very helpful. School staff can work with the student and their family to create this accommodation while the learner stretches their “calm down muscles.” Some great options for (semi) private spaces with the teacher’s knowledge and permission are:

🧑‍⚕️ The nurse’s office
📓 The counselor’s room
🚰 The restroom
🌳 Supervised outdoor or gym time to get extra energy out
🚪 The hallway outside the classroom

I hope this video helps you or someone you care about!

I know that was a lot to read…If you’re short on time, I get to the heart of these skills starting at the 2:55 mark.