Flexibility

Prepare child before entering a new situation/event

Have a child help you change rules to a common activity/game

Emphasize that mistakes are a part of learning to shift mindset

Give warning before transitions or allow extra time

Avoid introducing multiple changes at once

Use flexibility phrases such as compromise, plan A/plan B, big deal/little deal, choice/no choice

Utilize lessons on jokes and riddles to encourage flexible thought

Make first-then plans fulfill academic needs and child's desires

Adjust open-ended assignments to more closed-ended

Reduce task complexity

Use social stories or role play scenarios to discuss ways to be flexible in tough situations

Visual schedules to reduce stress of change

Teach coping/calming skills to aid in new/unforeseen situations

Deep breathing
Positive self-talk
Listening to music
Take a break in quiet area
Take a drink
Read, draw, or journal

References

Beck, C. (2019). Executive Functioning Skills Activity Guide. www.theottoolbox.com
Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University (2014). Enhancing and Practicing Executive Function Skills with Children from Infancy to Adolescence. www.developingchild.harvard.edu.
Dawson, P., & Guare, R., (2018). From Executive Function Skills in Children and Adolescents. New York: Guilford Press. Third Edition.
Dawson, P., & Guare, R. (2009). Smart but scattered: The revolutionary “executive skills” approach to helping kids reach their potential. Guilford Press.
Demonstrated Success. (2022, February 11). Classroom strategies to foster executive functioning for children [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OwZMX11daA
Forgan, J. W., & Richey, M. A. (2015). The impulsive, disorganized child: Solutions for parenting kids with executive functioning difficulties. Prufrock Press Inc.
Harkla. (2022, February 22). Top 7 Executive Functioning Strategies for Kids [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2N0_zBYLlk
Kenworthy, L., Anthony, L. G., Alexander, K. C., Werner, M. A., Cannon, L., & Greenman, L. (2014). Solving executive function challenges: Simple ways to get kids with autism unstuck and on target. Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co.
O’Brien, J., & Kuhaneck, H. (2019). Case-smith’s occupational therapy for children and adolescents (8th ed.). Elsevier.
Soclof, A., & Christie, L., (2020). Executive Functioning: Teaching Children Organizational Skills [Online course]. Professional Development Resources.
Wolraich, M., & Hagan, J. F. (2019). ADHD: What every parent needs to know (3rd edition). American Academy of Pediatrics.