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Flexible Thinking & ADHD

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Summary

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Flexible thinking is when you can change your thoughts and actions to fit new situations. This helps you solve problems and be successful, especially if you have ADHD. Kids with ADHD can learn to use flexible thinking to manage their symptoms and become more confident and successful.

Frequently Asked Question

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How does flexible thinking help kids with ADHD?

Flexible thinking helps kids with ADHD by providing them with tools to deal with their symptoms, such as difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. By using flexible thinking, kids with ADHD can become more confident and successful in their daily lives.

What are some practical strategies for teaching flexible thinking to kids with ADHD?

Practical strategies for teaching flexible thinking to kids with ADHD include role-playing, problem-solving exercises, and teaching specific skills like taking breaks, asking for help, and finding new solutions. Additionally, providing consistent support, praise, and encouragement can help kids with ADHD build their flexible thinking skills.

Can flexible thinking improve behavior in kids with ADHD?

Yes, flexible thinking can help improve behavior in kids with ADHD by giving them tools to manage their symptoms. By learning to adapt to new situations, kids with ADHD can develop better self-regulation skills, become more confident, and have fewer behavior problems. Additionally, flexible thinking can help kids with ADHD manage their emotions and handle stress, leading to improved behavior overall.

Scientific Definition

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Flexible thinking is when we can change our thoughts, plans, and actions to suit new situations. This means we can think creatively, solve problems, and adapt to new challenges. It’s essential for everyone, but especially for kids with ADHD. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It’s a condition where a person has trouble paying attention, sitting still, and controlling their behavior. This can make it hard for them in school and other activities. Having flexible thinking skills can help kids with ADHD by giving them tools to deal with their symptoms. For example, if they have trouble paying attention in class, they can learn to take breaks, use a fidget toy, or find other ways to focus. If they struggle with finishing tasks, they can learn to break them down into smaller parts or ask for help. By practicing flexible thinking, kids with ADHD can become more confident and successful in their daily lives. They can learn to solve problems and find new solutions, even when things are challenging.

Video Explanation

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Real World Example of Flexible Thinking

Meet Susie, a creative and energetic 8-year-old with ADHD. One day, Susie’s school planned a surprise outdoor field trip, but she was prepared! Thanks to her flexible thinking skills, she embraced the unexpected adventure with excitement.

  • Adapting to Change: When the field trip was announced, Susie quickly adjusted her plans and swapped her packed lunch for a portable one.
  • Problem-Solving: During the trip, the weather unexpectedly changed, and it started raining. Susie creatively suggested indoor games to keep everyone entertained until the rain stopped.
  • Embracing New Experiences: At the field trip location, Susie explored different activities, fearlessly trying everything from rock climbing to sketching nature scenes.
  • Social Flexibility: When her new friend James felt nervous about the climbing wall, Susie offered encouraging words and joined him, making him feel at ease.
  • Coping with Challenges: When it was time to head back, Susie realized she had lost her way. Instead of panicking, she used her problem-solving skills to retrace her steps and find her group.
  • Resilience and Positive Attitude: Throughout the day, Susie faced various challenges, but her flexible thinking and positive attitude helped her overcome each obstacle with confidence.

Susie’s success showcases how flexible thinking can empower kids with ADHD to seize the day and make the most out of every experience. With Goally’s support, children like Susie can continue to develop and apply their flexible thinking skills, paving the way for a brighter future.

How Does Flexible Thinking Work?

Flexible thinking allows individuals to adapt their thoughts, plans, and actions to different situations. It plays a significant role in helping kids with ADHD overcome challenges and find innovative solutions. Here are some examples of how flexible thinking works:

  • Adapting to Change: Flexibility enables children to adjust when plans change unexpectedly, helping them stay calm and focused.
  • Problem-Solving: With flexible thinking, kids can approach problems from different angles and devise creative solutions.
  • Coping with Frustration: When faced with challenges, flexible thinking helps children manage frustration and avoid meltdowns.
  • Embracing Mistakes: It encourages a growth mindset, where mistakes are seen as opportunities to learn and improve.
  • Understanding Others: Flexible thinking fosters empathy by enabling children to consider others’ perspectives and feelings.
  • Transitioning Between Tasks: Kids with flexible thinking can smoothly switch between activities or subjects without feeling overwhelmed.

Flexible thinking empowers children with ADHD to approach life’s challenges with adaptability, resilience, and creativity, leading to improved overall well-being and success. Goally’s tablet offers fun apps that help kids with ADHD build flexible thinking skills through visual schedules, gamified learning, and social skills training videos. It promotes adaptability, problem-solving, and executive functioning for improved daily success.

 

This post was originally published on Feb. 7, 2023. It was updated on July 21, 2023.