This executive functioning counseling lesson for grades 5–8 helps students understand what emotional control is, the impact of letting emotions drive their actions, and strategies for managing feelings effectively. Students will work through relatable situations and practice applying self-regulation strategies at school and at home. This lesson is part of a 20-lesson Executive Functioning Curriculum but can also be used on its own.

Emotional Control Strategies: Executive Functioning Counseling Lesson Plan for Grades 5–8: Help students develop emotional regulation skills with this executive functioning counseling lesson on emotional control. Designed for upper elementary and middle school students, this lesson explains what emotional control is, highlights the consequences of acting on strong emotions, and provides strategies for managing feelings in healthy and productive ways. Students will evaluate realistic scenarios, reflect on the role emotions play in decision-making, and identify strategies to remain calm and in control.

What’s Included:

• Scripted, detailed lesson plan (black & white printable)
• Slides for instruction and student activities (PowerPoint file, compatible with Google Slides; not editable)
• Pre- and post-test to measure student learning
• Skills visuals to reinforce emotional regulation strategies (black & white and color versions)
• Handouts with student practice activities (black & white printable)
  

Key Features:

• Designed for grades 5–8
• Approximately 50 minutes of instruction and activities
• Suitable for classroom SEL lessons, small group counseling, or individual use
• Minimal prep required—no additional materials needed
• Easy to use in both PowerPoint and Google Slides
  

FAQs:

Q: Do I need extra materials?
A: No. Everything is included in this resource.

Q: How long does the lesson take?
A: About 50 minutes, though timing may vary depending on student needs.

Q: Can I use this lesson in small groups or individual counseling?
A: Yes. The lesson is flexible for multiple settings.

Q: Can this be opened in Google Slides?
A: Yes. Upload the PowerPoint file into your Google Drive to use it in Google Slides.

This Emotional Control Executive Function Lesson equips students with strategies to manage emotions, regulate responses, and make thoughtful choices even when facing strong feelings. Perfect for school counselors, teachers, and intervention specialists, this resource makes it easy to explicitly teach and reinforce emotional regulation as part of executive functioning instruction.

Get the full curriculum here!

Please Note: this is a digitally downloadable resource. You will not receive anything in the mail.