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.

Activitites 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. And, 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 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, like have a backwards day. Or, have a different music playlist for each day. 
• 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

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