Parenting is definitely a journey filled with twists and turns, and sometimes, for me, it feels like I’m constantly navigating a new maze. Over the years, both personally and in my work with kids in therapy, one of the most effective strategies I’ve found for managing these hurdles is the concept of Plan A/Plan B. This approach, which I frequently use with children working on flexible thinking and problem-solving through the “Unstuck and On Target” curriculum, not only helps with immediate issues but also really nurtures those crucial problem-solving skills in children. It encourages them to think critically and adapt when situations change.
Understanding Plan A/Plan B: My Core Philosophy
The Plan A/Plan B strategy is such a simple yet incredibly powerful tool. It’s something I often introduce to guide children through decision-making processes. Think of it this way: Plan A is our first, best guess at how we’re going to tackle a problem or what we’ll do. But life, as we know, rarely sticks to Plan A! So, Plan B is that alternative, the backup plan that we deploy when Plan A just isn’t working out. This method is brilliant because it explicitly teaches kids that it’s completely okay to have a backup plan. Being flexible is absolutely key to overcoming obstacles.
How I Use Plan A/Plan B in Everyday Life (and Encourage Parents To!)
I love seeing how this integrates into daily life, both for families I work with and in my own home:
- Prompt Problem-Solving: When a child (or even an adult!) is faced with a challenge, I always encourage them to verbalize their “Plan A.” If it hits a snag, then the conversation naturally pivots to “What’s our Plan B?” This simple prompt really pushes them to think ahead and consider multiple solutions, which is so valuable.
- Consistent Language is Everything: I can’t stress enough how much incorporating the Plan A/Plan B language into daily conversations helps. For instance, if my kid wants to play outside but it’s pouring rain, we’ll talk about “Okay, so playing outside was Plan A. What’s our Plan B for fun now?” — maybe it’s a board game or a craft project. It normalizes adaptation.
- Celebrate the Adaptability: When I see a child successfully pivot and implement a Plan B, I make sure to really praise their ability to adapt and solve problems. That positive reinforcement is huge; it makes them more likely to use this strategy again and again.
- Model the Behavior (Authentically!): This isn’t just for kids! I try to openly model how I use Plan A/Plan B in my own life. Whether it’s a sudden change in dinner plans because a recipe ingredient is missing, or having to shift priorities for a work deadline, I try to show how I adapt and find those alternative solutions. Kids learn so much by watching us.
The Clear Benefits of Embracing Plan A/Plan B
I’ve seen firsthand how this strategy provides wonderful advantages:
- Reduces Anxiety: For both kids and parents, knowing there’s a backup plan can genuinely alleviate stress and anxiety. It creates a sense of security and control, even when things go awry.
- Builds Resilience: This is huge. Children learn that setbacks aren’t failures, but a natural part of life, and that they possess the tools to navigate them. This truly builds resilience and confidence in their own capabilities.
- Enhances Communication: Discussing plans and alternatives naturally fosters more open communication between parents and children. It strengthens our relationships and deepens mutual understanding.
A Life Skill for the Future
The Plan A/Plan B strategy is so much more than just a quick parenting hack; it’s a fundamental life skill. It equips children to handle challenges not just adequately, but with grace, creativity, and a sense of agency. By teaching them to think ahead and adapt, we’re really preparing them for the complexities of life, helping them grow into incredibly resilient and resourceful individuals. So next time you’re faced with a parenting challenge, or even just a minor hiccup in the day, remember to ask, “What’s our Plan B?” – and then watch your child truly flourish in their problem-solving journey.
