Imagine this: your child’s future career may not even exist yet! Jobs like “app developer” or “social media strategist” were unheard of just 20 years ago. As the world changes at an unprecedented pace, how can we prepare our children for such an unpredictable future?
Adaptability is the ability to adjust to new situations, challenges and environments with ease. It’s an important soft skill that helps children thrive socially and emotionally. In this article, we’ll explore why adaptability is essential and practical ways you can help your child develop this invaluable skill.
Why adaptability is a crucial skill in today’s world
The world your child will grow up in is vastly different from the one we knew. Technological advancements, globalisation and even events like the pandemic have shown us just how quickly life can change.
Adaptable children are more comfortable with uncertainty and change. They’re not thrown off course when plans shift or challenges arise. Instead, they adjust their approach and keep moving forward.
In a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, researchers found that children with higher adaptability scores performed better academically and had stronger social relationships1.
Adaptability also connects deeply to emotional regulation. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that children who can manage their emotions during times of change – such as moving to a new school – are more likely to bounce back and find creative solutions3.
Adaptability and the developing brain
Children’s brains are designed to adapt. This ability, known as neuroplasticity, allows their brains to form new connections and learn from experiences. During childhood, the brain is particularly receptive to new information and environments, making it the perfect time to develop adaptability2.
7 tips and strategies to raise adaptable children
The good news is that adaptability is a skill you can help your child develop through simple, everyday actions. Your child’s environment plays a significant role in shaping their mindset. Here are some ways to cultivate adaptability at home:
Encourage a growth mindset:
Teach your child that challenges and mistakes are opportunities to learn, not failures! Phrases like, “You haven’t figured it out yet, but with practice, you can!” foster resilience and a willingness to face challenges.
Expose children to diverse experiences:
Introduce your child to new activities and different environments. This could be as simple as trying a new sport, exploring different cuisines, or solving puzzles together.
Research from Cambridge University highlights how imaginative play helps children think flexibly and adapt to different roles and scenarios4.
Play games where your child has to navigate changing scenarios, such as pretending to be in a store with a surprise sale or a sudden power outage. These activities build problem-solving skills in a fun, low-pressure way.
Encourage independent thinking:
Allow your child to make age-appropriate decisions, like choosing their outfit or planning a family activity. Learning from the outcomes builds confidence and problem-solving skills.
Introduce flexible routines:
While routines provide stability, occasional changes – like a surprise family outing – teach your child to embrace spontaneity without anxiety.
Foster emotional resilience:
Equip your child with coping strategies to handle uncertainty calmly, such as taking deep breaths or practising mindfulness.
The long-term benefits of adaptability
The skills your child develops now will shape their future. Adaptable children grow into adults who excel in leadership, creativity and collaboration. They’re also better equipped for lifelong learning, a crucial trait in a world where industries evolve rapidly.
Moreover, adaptability reduces the likelihood of chronic stress. Adults who are comfortable with change tend to approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset, leading to better mental and emotional health.
By nurturing adaptability in children, you’re giving them a toolkit for success that extends far beyond school. From academic success to emotional well-being, adaptability is a superpower that empowers children to navigate life's twists and turns with creativity and resilience.
Take it a step at a time
Start small: encourage a growth mindset, model flexible behaviour, and create opportunities for problem-solving through play. As you do, you’ll be setting the stage for your child to flourish in a rapidly changing, complex world.
In Ranger Buddies missions, children learn adaptability through immersive adventures where they navigate and tackle real-world environmental challenges. Check out what's on today!
REVIEWED BY DR JACQUELINE CHUNG
References
[1]Martin, A. J., & Marsh, H. W. (2006). Academic resilience and its psychological and educational correlates: A construct validity approach. Journal of Educational Psychology, 98(3), 794–813. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-0663.98.3.794
[2]Harvard University, Center on the Developing Child. (2007). The science of early childhood development: Closing the gap between what we know and what we do. Retrieved from https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/report/the-science-of-early-childhood-development-closing-the-gap-between-what-we-know-and-what-we-do/
[3]American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Resilience guide for parents and teachers. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/resilience/guide-parents-teachers
[4]Whitebread, D. (2012). The importance of play: A report on the value of children’s play with a series of policy recommendations. University of Cambridge. Retrieved from https://www.importanceofplay.eu/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Dr-David-Whitebread-The-importance-of-play-final.pdf