Speed Bumps, Detours, and Growth: Tools for Flexible Thinking

Helping children grow into adaptable, problem-solving thinkers is a big part of both academic and life success. One area we focus on at school is executive functioning, particularly flexible thinking- the ability to shift gears, manage unexpected changes, and find new ways to solve problems. These skills help students navigate challenges with greater independence and resilience. Families can play an important role in supporting this growth at home through everyday conversations, routines, and play.

​In the Edutopia article titled "A Strategy for Flexible Thinking" by Laura Wheeler, the author addresses the importance of developing students' executive functioning skills, particularly flexible thinking, to enhance their ability to handle feedback and adapt to challenges.​

Understanding Executive Functioning and Flexible Thinking

Executive functioning encompasses cognitive processes such as shifting focus, understanding different perspectives, and regulating emotions to initiate and complete tasks. Flexible thinking, a key component of executive functioning, enables students to adapt to new information, consider alternative viewpoints, and adjust their strategies when faced with obstacles. Students with underdeveloped flexible thinking may struggle with accepting feedback, adapting to changes, and resolving conflicts, which can hinder their academic and social growth.​

The "Speed Bumps, Detours, and Parking Spaces" Strategy

To support the development of flexible thinking, Wheeler introduces the "Speed Bumps, Detours, and Parking Spaces" strategy, which provides students with a framework to recognize and adjust their thought processes:​

  • Speed Bumps: Situations that require students to slow down and thoughtfully address a problem. For example, encountering a challenging math problem that necessitates careful consideration.​

  • Detours: Instances where students need to alter their plans and explore alternative solutions. For instance, if a student writes an essay on an incorrect topic, they must identify a new, appropriate subject.​

  • Parking Spaces: Moments when students feel overwhelmed and need to pause before proceeding. This could involve taking a break during a complex project to prevent frustration and regain focus.​

Implementing the Strategy in the Classroom

  • Explicit Instruction: Teaching students the concepts of speed bumps, detours, and parking spaces, and encouraging them to identify and discuss examples from their own experiences.​

  • Modeling Flexible Thinking: Demonstrating how to navigate challenges by thinking aloud during problem-solving tasks, showcasing adaptability and openness to new approaches.​

  • Creating a Supportive Environment: Establishing a classroom culture that values effort, resilience, and the understanding that mistakes are part of the learning process.​

Flexible Thinking at Home:

    • Speed Bump: “This is a speed bump moment- let’s slow down and figure it out together.”

    • Detour: “That didn’t go as planned- what’s another way we could try?”

    • Parking Space: “Seems like this is getting frustrating. Let’s take a short break and come back to it.”

    • This gives kids consistent cues and encourages reflection instead of shutdown.

    • Play open-ended games like Lego, pretend play, or drawing challenges that invite creativity and flexibility.

    • Use strategy board games or card games that require adapting to changing circumstances (e.g., Uno, Blokus).

    • “The grocery store is closed - what’s our plan B?”

    • Use visual schedules or whiteboards to help them prepare for changes and transitions.

    • “I thought we had milk, but we’re out. Hmm, I could go get more or see if we can make something else for dinner.”

    • This shows kids that adjusting plans is normal and manageable.

    • Practice calming strategies like deep breathing, stretching, or sensory breaks together.

    • When they’re upset, help them label emotions and walk through what the “parking space” moment looks like for them.

    • “What did you try?”

    • “What worked? What could we do differently next time?”

    • “What Do You Do With a Problem?” by Kobi Yamada

    • “Beautiful Oops!” by Barney Saltzberg

    • “My Fantastic Elastic Brain” by Joann Deak

When children learn how to pause, adjust, and respond calmly to the unexpected, they become more confident and capable learners. By using consistent strategies and language both at school and at home, we can help students build the flexible thinking skills they need to thrive - not just in the classrooms, but in life!

Brianne D'Amours