Size of the Problem Small Group - Elementary

Support students as they learn to match the size of their reaction to the size of the problem with this engaging 6-week Size of the Problem small group curriculum. Students will learn to identify different-sized problems, choose appropriate responses, practice coping strategies, and build essential problem-solving skills through interactive games, discussions, and role-play activities.

Aligned with ASCA and CASEL standards, this ready-to-use curriculum is perfect for Tier 2 school counseling groups. Students will strengthen self-management skills, develop effective coping strategies, and gain confidence responding appropriately to everyday challenges.

Size of the Problem Group Outline:

Week 1: Size of the Problem Introduction

Week 2: Ignoring Small Problems

Week 3: Asking for Help

Week 4: Coping Strategies

Week 5: Managing Reactions

Week 6: Reflect and Practice

Activities Included:

• Scavenger hunt
• Trashketball game
• "Guess the Problem" drawing game
• Social story
• Discussion dice
• Coping strategy activities
• Role-play scenarios
• Scoot game
• Charades
  
• Take-home reference cards

Here is what's included each week:

Outlines: Easy-to-implement outlines with ASCA and CASEL-aligned objectives.

Group Rules: Suggested and DIY Group Rules poster so students can help establish expectations for the group.

Feelings Check: Feelings Check poster to help students identify and reflect on their emotions at the beginning of every session.

Self-Assessments: Pre and post-group self-assessments make progress monitoring and data collection simple.

Engaging games and activities: Everything you need is included for each session. Simply print, prep, and you're ready to meet with students.

Reference Cards: Students receive take-home reminder cards to reinforce strategies learned during the group.

Benefiting Students:

Each session helps students recognize that problems come in different sizes and teaches them how to choose an appropriate response. Students practice identifying when to ignore a problem, solve it independently, ask a trusted adult for help, or use healthy coping strategies.

By participating in this Size of the Problem small group, students will strengthen their emotional regulation, improve problem-solving skills, build confidence in handling challenging situations, and develop strategies they can use both at school and at home.

Saving Time:

With easy-to-follow outlines, engaging activities, and all materials included, this Size of the Problem curriculum is extremely low-prep. Simply print each week's materials before your group begins and you're ready to go.

The included pre- and post-group self-assessments make it easy to collect meaningful data and share student growth with teachers, administrators, and families. The reusable activities and clear instructions allow you to use this curriculum year after year.

Who is this Group Designed For?

This Size of the Problem small group is designed for elementary students who need additional support with emotional regulation, coping skills, and problem-solving. It is ideal for Tier 2 intervention groups and can be adapted for a variety of grade levels and student needs.