Flexi-Mind Guide Poster
Flexi-Mind Guide
Bending Your Brain for Success!
Flexible
Like a Pipe Cleaner
"I can bend without breaking!"
- Tries a different way when one way doesn't work.
- Can change plans without getting upset.
- Listens to and values other people's ideas.
Rigid
Like a Dry Noodle
"I snap when things change."
- Thinks there is only one "right" way to do it.
- Gets stuck or upset when plans change.
- Refuses to try something new or different.
How to Be a Flexi-Thinker
Ask Why
"Why is this changing? How can I help?"
Plan B
Always think: "What's another way I could do this?"
Deep Breath
Pause and breathe when you feel yourself getting "stiff".
Bend • Stretch • Grow • Learn
Flexi-Mind Facilitator Guide
Facilitator Guide
Flexi-Mind: Bending Your Brain
The Core Analogy
This teaching tool helps learners visualize cognitive flexibility by comparing the brain to two physical objects: The Pipe Cleaner and The Dry Noodle.
Flexible Thinking
Bends to fit new spaces. Stretches without snapping. Can change shape easily.
Rigid Thinking
Only goes one way. Snaps when pushed to change. Hard to manage under pressure.
How to Use the Poster
1
The Visual Contrast
Physically show a pipe cleaner and a noodle. Point to the "Flexible" side. Ask: "If plans change, which one stays together?"
2
Identify "Stiff Brain" Moments
Discuss how it feels when things don't go as planned. Help the learner identify where they feel that tightness in their body.
3
Practice The "Plan B" Shout
Use low-stakes scenarios to practice flexibility. "The red pencil is gone! Time for a Plan B!" Celebrate the "bend" with praise.
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Communication Strategies
Using the right language at the right time.
Prompting for Flexibility
The Redirect
"The original plan is changing. Do we need to be like a noodle that snaps, or a pipe cleaner that bends?"
The Problem Solve
"I can see you're feeling a bit 'stuck.' What's a different way we could look at this problem?"
Pro-Tips for Support Staff
-
Validate First: Before asking for flexibility, acknowledge frustration. "It's hard when we can't do things the way we expected."
-
Model Vulnerability: When you make a mistake, call it out. "Oh no, I forgot the snack! I need to use my Flexi-Mind right now."
Observation Notes
Triggers & Wins Log
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Ready to Go Checklist Plus Final
Ready to Go!
My Before-I-Leave Checklist
Keys
Do I have my house keys?
Phone
Is it in my pocket or bag?
Wallet & ID
Do I have my money and bus pass?
Clothing
Do I have my shoes and jacket?
Staff Check-in
Tell staff where I am going and when I will be back.
Plan to Return
Be back for meals and meds. Call the house if late.
You are ready!
Have a great day!
Ready to Go Checklist Plus
Ready to Go!
My Before-I-Leave Checklist
Keys
Do I have my house keys?
Phone
Is it in my pocket or bag?
Wallet & ID
Do I have my money and bus pass?
Clothing
Do I have my shoes and jacket?
Check-in with Staff
Tell staff where I am going and when I will be back.
You are ready!
Have a great day outside!