Executive Functioning, Cognitive Flexibility, Problem Solving

4 Creative Problem Solving Techniques

Have you ever found yourself stuck in a problem, unable to think of a way forward? We have all experienced moments when the solution seems out of reach. By learning how to shift our thinking and stay focused on our goals, we can unlock new, creative solutions. Cognitive flexibility and goal-directed persistence are two powerful … read more

Cognitive Flexibility, Executive Functioning

Flexible Thinking Made Practical: 5 Strategies to Support Neurodivergent Youth

“That was great thinking on your feet.” “I tend to fly by the seat of my pants.” “Off the top of my head…” “We can just play it by ear.” These catchphrases are so common in our language because of how commonly we have to demonstrate the skill of flexible thinking or cognitive flexibility. It’s … read more

Cognitive Flexibility, Executive Functioning

15 Strategies for Cultivating a Growth Mindset for Teens

As parents & educators, we want the best for our children, including their mental and emotional growth. One of the many things that we can do is to help our teens develop a growth mindset. A growth mindset is a belief that skills and abilities can be developed over time through hard work and dedication, … read more

Cognitive Flexibility, Executive Functioning

10-Minute Flexible Thinking Activities

Sometimes, you may find yourself getting stuck in a particular way of thinking. Unable to see other possibilities or perspectives. Being able to express cognitive flexibility is important – not only does it help you adapt better to situations, but it also predicts your future success in work and academics. Fortunately, there are many strategies … read more

IEPs, Cognitive Flexibility, Executive Functioning

7 Cognitive Flexibility IEP Goals

This article is designed to be utilized with the utmost professional integrity and ethical consideration. It is imperative to acknowledge that directly copying and pasting example goals into student’s IEPs from any external source, including ours, undermines the individualized nature of IEP planning and does not serve the best interests of students. This resource aims … read more

Cognitive Flexibility, EF 101 Series, Executive Functioning

5 Cognitive Flexibility Activities for Learners of All Ages

In previous articles, we’ve reviewed the executive functioning skill of flexibility, one that is particularly important for diverse learners. Many of the challenges we commonly associate with diagnoses like autism and ADHD relate to a teen or young adult’s difficulty shifting focus and adapting to changes in their environment. In many cases, we find it’s … read more

Cognitive Flexibility, EF 101 Series, Executive Functioning

7 Cognitive Flexibility Strategies to Experiment With

“I’m not doing that.” “Why can’t we do it the way we always do?” “You can’t make me try that!” “I’m not finished yet. I don’t want to move on.” “But that’s not the way it’s supposed to be.” For anyone—parents, teachers, coaches, clinicians, or adults working on their own growth—who supports someone struggling with … read more

Cognitive Flexibility, Behaviors, EF 101 Series, Executive Functioning

Executive Functioning Skills 101: Flexibility

If there’s anything that life in a pandemic has shown us, it’s how important it is (and how difficult it can be) to adapt to unexpected change. As every aspect of life turned upside down for parents, teachers, and individuals of all ages, it quickly became apparent the areas where we all knew and didn’t … read more