Nurturing flexible thinking in your child
As parents, we want our children to succeed in school and in life. One skill that often sets thriving students apart is flexible thinking, which is the ability to adapt, shift perspectives, and solve problems in creative ways. In competitive academic environments, flexible thinking can be just as important as memorizing facts or mastering procedures.
Why Flexible Thinking Matters
Children with strong flexible thinking skills can adjust when plans change, approach challenges from different angles, and handle frustration with resilience. This not only helps them in the classroom but also in social situations, extracurriculars, and even future job settings. In my work with Houston families, I see how fostering this skill early can lead to confident, capable learners.
Modeling Flexible Thinking at Home
One of the most powerful ways to teach flexible thinking is to model it yourself. Narrate your own thought process when unexpected issues arise:
“We were going to the park, but it’s raining. Let’s think of another fun indoor activity.”
“That didn’t work the way I hoped. What’s another way we can try?”
By verbalizing your adaptability, you show your child that changing plans or trying new approaches is normal and healthy.
Coaching Through Everyday Challenges
When your child faces a challenge, instead of giving them the answer, coach them through the problem:
Ask open‑ended questions like, “What else could we try?” or “How might we look at this differently?”
Praise efforts to try new methods, even if the first attempt doesn’t succeed.
Encourage brainstorming multiple solutions before settling on one.
Practice Through Play and Exploration
Games and activities that require strategy and adaptation are excellent for building flexible thinking. Try board games that involve planning ahead, cooperative puzzles, or even simple role‑play scenarios where your child needs to “switch roles” and think from another perspective. Don’t forget to praise flexible thinking or behavior whenever you see it. When your child goes with the flow and accepts an unexpected change, say, “Thanks for being flexible.”
Read Books with Examples
I have found these great children’s books to foster opportunities for discussion about flexibility and creative problem-solving:
Imogene’s Antlers by David Small
Have a conversation about the different ways people react to difference. Imogene wakes up one morning with large antlers on her head. Some people who see Imogene’s unusual antlers find fun and interesting uses for them, and seem happy about the change. Others are alarmed. How might Imogene feel around these different people?
Other great books to try:
Willow by Denise Brennan-Nelson
No Fits, Nilson! By Zachariah OHora
Marigold Bakes a Cake by Mike Malbrough
Yard Sale by Eve Bunting
A Home for Gully by Jo Clegg
Looking for more ways to support your child’s learning and growth? Contact me today to learn how psychoeducational evaluations and tailored strategies can help your child thrive in Houston schools.
