Ever feel like your brain is stuck in “oh‑no” mode when plans change? That’s your cognitive flexibility throwing a toddler‑sized tantrum. You don’t need mind yoga to get flexible—just three everyday tools: calendars, lists, and timers. Use them to shift, reorder, adapt, and keep your brain calm when life throws curveballs.

Our plans always sound great — until they fall apart. Whether it’s a missed opportunity, an unexpected detour, or a disappointment, how young people respond to change often matters more than the change itself. In this post, I share three actionable ways parents can support their child’s ability to adapt, learn, and grow in the face of setbacks.