One of the most common presenting problems I see in my
school-based practice is impulse control issues. Most of my kiddos with ADHD
and autism struggle with impulse control, but I see so many other kids that
just fail to think before acting on a regular basis. I have found that it is
helpful to role play with them or present situations to help them think through
appropriate courses of action.
I address impulse control through many different ways such as
having them do activities that require them to follow directions, games like
red light/green light, and giving them choices for immediate gratification or
giving them a larger reward if they wait for it. I have used the Stop, Relax,
and Think game, and making Stop and Think activities.
I have also used Chutes and Ladders for years to address impulse
control and discuss logical consequences for behavior. I like how the game
board shows children making decisions and receiving either rewards or a
negative consequences for their actions. It is a good way to open the conversation
about thinking through things before acting and making deliberate choices to
enjoy rewards. I created these game cards to give more depth to the game,
having players answer a card with each turn. Cognitive behavioral therapy is
incorporated to help children address their thoughts on these situations and to
correct irrational thoughts, such as others make them do things and that they
do not have control over their behavior.
These game cards can be played with other games besides Chutes and
Ladders, such as Jenga, pick up sticks, or UNO. They could be played with many
other games as well. They will transform the game into a play therapy tool.
They are situational role cards that allow children to think of the
consequences of behaviors. Some cards also address individual behaviors of the
child and the consequences of their actions. Many cards focus on the social
impact of impulsive behavior, which will lend these cards to being used in
social skill groups or private sessions.
To use in sessions, choose a game to play with the client or
group. Each turn, the child will select a card and read the prompt. Allow the
child time to discuss their thoughts about the situation. For a group, it is
helpful to allow members give feedback to one another. Allow the person who
drew the card share their ideas first.
You can purchase this game here: https://www.pathwaystopeacecounseling.com/product-page/rewards-and-consequences-cards-for-impulse-control
You can also find our games on Amazon, Ebay, and Teachers Pay Teachers
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