Flexibility of thinking / shift

Difficulty adapting to change, transitioning between activities, and or revising plans when faced with new information, obstacles or setbacks.

  • Give advanced warning and extra processing time before changes. This helps the learner prepare mentally and reduces anxiety.
  • Talk through changes and their implications. This supports understanding and helps the learner feel more in control.
  • Use time-limited task boards or now/next visuals. This provides structure and helps the learner manage expectations.
  • Use social stories to explain flexibility and coping strategies. This helps the learner understand change and learn how to respond positively.
  • Create a toolbox of simple strategies for handling change (e.g., mindful breathing, familiar seating, focusing on what stays the same). This supports emotional regulation and builds resilience.
  • Agree on transition strategies between physical spaces (e.g., transitional object, reminders of rules in new space). This helps the learner move smoothly and confidently between environments.
  • Provide support and teach strategies for transitioning between tasks and activities. This helps the learner shift focus and stay engaged.
Resource Description Pricing Stage
How to manage problems with executive functioning Advice sheet Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Post 16
Mindfulness for kids Mindfulness resource Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Post 16
Now and Next visuals Web page Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Post 16
social stories Web page Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Post 16
transition tool box Web page Free Early Years, Primary, Secondary, Post 16
Outside the box Book Paid Early Years, Primary