Flexible thinking is essential to problem-solving and learning, but many kids with learning differences have trouble with it. They can’t shift gears and find it hard to think about things in different ways. But you can strengthen flexible thinking with activities that teach multiple ways to do things.

Activities that Build Flexible Thinking

• Play board games, card games, and playground games as much as possible. Each time you play a game, it’s different. Plus, learning to be a gracious loser helps build emotional flexibility.
• Use joke books to talk about the different meanings of words. Think about how changing the meaning of a word makes it funny.
• Invent new rules for your family’s favorite games – Uno is a great one for this! 
• Try doing everyday tasks or routines differently, or switch up the order. You can make it silly, maybe try to have a “backwards day.” Or, listen to a different music playlist every day on the drive to and from school and activities. 
• Brainstorm together – meal planning is a fun and easy way to do that.
• And most importantly, use positive reinforcement. Praise them when they show flexibility.

Incorporate Supports as You Build Flexibility

While you’re building flexible thinking, incorporate these training wheels for kiddos who don’t like change or surprises. 

• Before you make a change, explicitly explain (or show through visuals) the change. It could include specific situations, expectations, sights, sounds, smells, or people. Be clear and detailed, so there’s no room for confusion or doubt. 
• Acknowledge and empathize with their frustration.
• Use a calendar to minimize surprises. Place it in a high-traffic place in your home so everyone sees it every day.

Have a flexible day! When you keep flexibility top of mind, you’ll see many ways to weave it into your parenting.