Structure in College: Why More Structure Can Lead to More Growth
Structure in college is often misunderstood as limiting independence, when for many students it’s what makes independence possible.
College assumes students can manage freedom immediately. For some, that works. For others, structure in college accelerates development rather than slowing it down.
Why Structure in College Supports Growth
Structure in college reduces cognitive load. It clarifies expectations, creates predictable rhythms, and allows students to practice skills without constant crisis.
With structure, students can:
- notice patterns
- recover from missteps
- receive feedback
- try again
The Difference Between Support and Dependence
Structure in college becomes problematic only when it removes agency or never adjusts. When structure fades intentionally as skills grow, it supports independence rather than undermining it.
A Better Question
Instead of asking whether structure in college is “too much,” it’s more useful to ask whether it helps students practice independence more effectively.
If you’re considering whether more structure in college would help your student grow faster, we’re open to helping you evaluate fit clearly. Please contact Mansfield Hall today.
Obsessed with a crafty queen! Aven and life skills coach Juneau working on her Halloween costume 🎃👻.
PS. Burlington students, be sure to check out sewing club!
Sometimes a 5K is called a fun run- can confirm that much fun was had by all! 🏃
We`re doing our best to soak up these last fall days- it was well worth the effort this hike took!
There’s some fascinating research coming out surrounding the possible links between neurodivergence, hyper mobility, and regulation right now.
The overall conversation is surrounding the idea that neurodivergent folks are 4 times more likely to have generalized hypermoblity- a connective tissue disorder where the ligaments in the body are looser and thusly have to effort extra hard to hold everything in the body together. This additional effort the body has to exert daily to keep everything in order may be linked to a host of things, all pointing to the idea that these folks systems are working overtime to keep regulated.
Exercise, especially strength training can help ease this strain on the body by strengthening the muscles around the ligaments, which can help ease the job of those ligaments with consistent training over time.
Mansfield Hall offers students the opportunity to join in for two structured workouts a week focused on upper and lower body as well as core stability for this reason!
References
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You could say this event was a smashing success!
Eugene students enjoyed pumpkin launching over the weekend. 🎃
#autism #neurodivergent #collegesupport
This week at Mansfield Hall was our week of giving.
We recognize that we benefit from the communities we are a part of, and it’s our beliefs that it’s our responsibility to give back to the spaces that enrich us.
Students and staff were welcomed at a local farm to harvest over 1,800 lbs of apples, which will go to feeding 500 food insecure families around the state.
Happy Friday Everyone 🍎
#collegesupport #neurodiversity #autism
