Building Flexible Thinking

Building Flexible Thinking

Official title: Shifting

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Goal

‍Help learners build strategies to handle unexpected changes in routines or plans.

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‍How

‍Identify times when changes may be difficult (e.g., transitions, appointments). Teach the “control circle” strategy: list what’s within their control (e.g., actions) inside the circle, and what’s not (e.g., changes in schedule) outside. Pair with calming techniques like deep breathing, grounding, or sensory tools

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‍Context

‍Teach this proactively during calm moments. When a change happens, start by validating their feelings (e.g., “I can see this change is upsetting”), then guide them through calming strategies. Once calm, explain the change in small steps and offer choices when possible.

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‍Tip

‍Build quick thinking and adaptability with games like Scrabble, Bananagrams, or Scattergories. Encourage new experiences and praise efforts to try something outside their comfort zone.Created in collaboration with Rebecca Dumas, M.A, BCBA, Founder of Pivot Your Way

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