These executive functioning counseling lessons for grades 5–8 teach students what cognitive flexibility is and how to use strategies to adapt to changes, challenges, and new perspectives. Students will rotate through interactive stations to practice flexible thinking in engaging ways they will enjoy. These lessons are part of a 20-lesson Executive Functioning Curriculum but can also be taught independently.

Cognitive Flexibility Strategies: Executive Functioning Counseling Lessons for Grades 5–8: Help students strengthen their ability to adapt and think flexibly with these executive functioning counseling lessons on cognitive flexibility. Designed for upper elementary and middle school students, these lessons explain what cognitive flexibility is, why it matters, and how it helps with problem-solving, perspective-taking, and adjusting to unexpected changes. Students will rotate through interactive learning stations that allow them to apply flexible thinking strategies in hands-on and enjoyable ways.

What’s Included:

• 2 scripted, detailed lesson plans (black & white printable)
• Slides for instruction and activities (PowerPoint file, compatible with Google Slides; not editable)
• Pre- and post-test to measure growth and progress
• Skills visuals for reinforcement (black & white and color versions)
• Station labels and instructions (black & white and color versions)
• Handouts with student practice activities (black & white printable)
  

Key Features:

• Designed for grades 5–8
• Two complete lessons, each about 50 minutes long
• Interactive station-based learning format
• Adaptable for classrooms, small groups, or one-on-one counseling
• Low prep; requires only simple items commonly available (e.g., stress ball, cups, cones)
• Works in both PowerPoint and Google Slides
  

FAQs:

Q: Do I need extra materials?
A: Only a variety of simple items you already have on hand (examples: stress ball, cups, cones).

Q: How long will each lesson take?
A: Each lesson runs about 50 minutes, though timing may vary depending on the group.

Q: Can this be used in small groups or individual sessions?
A: Yes. The lessons are flexible for a variety of settings.

Q: Can I open this in Google Slides?
A: Yes. Upload the PowerPoint file to your Google Drive to open it in Google Slides.

These Cognitive Flexibility Executive Function Lessons give students the tools they need to adapt, problem-solve, and approach challenges with flexible thinking. Perfect for school counselors, teachers, and intervention specialists, this resource provides everything needed to explicitly teach and reinforce cognitive flexibility 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.