Executive Functioning Games | Activities for Groups & Classes

Executive Functioning Games | Activities for Groups & ClassesFor international orders, you can purchase on Amazon or Barnes & Noble Executive Functioning Games for Groups and Classes (Print Edition) Executive Functioning Games for Groups and Classes is an innovative, research informed collection of hands on activities designed to strengthen executive functioning skills through play. This print based edition is ideal for classrooms, therapy sessions, small groups, and learning pods, requiring minimal prep time.

For international orders, you can purchase on Amazon or Barnes & Noble   

Executive Functioning Games for Groups and Classes (Print Edition)

Executive Functioning Games for Groups and Classes is an innovative, research-informed collection of hands-on activities designed to strengthen executive functioning skills through play. This print-based edition is ideal for classrooms, therapy sessions, small groups, and learning pods, requiring minimal prep time. Each game fosters cognitive growth, emotional intelligence, social connection, and self-regulation in a fun, interactive way.

A Playful Approach to Strengthening Executive Functioning Skills

This book introduces a dynamic and versatile way to build key executive functioning (EF) abilities—such as focus, impulse control, memory, planning, and flexible thinking—through collaborative games and experiential learning. These activities are developmentally appropriate for children through adults and can be easily adapted for one-on-one work, small group sessions, or full-class instruction.

Whether you're a:

• Teachers looking to build community while targeting EF skills
• Educational therapists seeking low-prep interventions that engage
• Coaches, counselors, or mentors working with neurodiverse learners
• School-based interventionists implementing Tier 1, Tier 2, or Tier 3 supports

… This print-ready collection provides all the tools you need to create a brain-friendly learning environment.

Why Games Work

Games light up the brain. When learners are having fun, the brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter that increases motivation, memory consolidation, attention, and learning retention. According to neuroscience research, playful interaction can significantly enhance the development of working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility—the core building blocks of executive function.

What’s Inside

The games are organized for ease of use and include:

• Clear objectives and cognitive skill targets
• Step-by-step scripts for facilitators
• Reflection prompts and discussion starters
• Suggestions for adaptations and extensions
• Game tracker and printable visuals

Activities range from movement-based memory games and emotional regulation exercises to strategy-based team challenges, leadership opportunities, and mindfulness-based practices.

Aligned with the Science of Executive Function

Grounded in cognitive psychology and executive function research, this resource is designed to target the three foundational pillars of EF:

• Working Memory – Holding and manipulating information (e.g., sequencing games, metaphor play)
• Inhibitory Control – Pausing, filtering distractions, and managing impulses (e.g., games with turn-taking or listening cues)
• Cognitive Flexibility – Shifting perspectives, adapting to new rules, and generating creative ideas (e.g., problem-solving or rule-switching activities)

Each section of the book is color-coded and metaphorically aligned to these core EF systems to help educators understand and target specific needs in their learners.

Highlights from the Print Edition

Here’s a sampling of the 29 featured games:

• Snap and Clap – Boost auditory memory through rhythm
• Animal Powers – Build self-awareness and confidence through metaphor
• Switch – Practice mental flexibility with quick rule changes
• Letting Go – Strengthen emotional regulation and resilience
• Unibreath – Teach calming breathwork techniques
• Class Composer – Develop leadership and group planning skills
• Bright Side Stories – Encourage optimism through cognitive reframing
• Copycat Circle – Enhance attention and active listening

And many more…

Each game includes reproducible materials when needed and is designed to support inclusivity, collaboration, and joyful learning.

Who Benefits from This Book?

This resource is ideal for:

• General education classrooms
• Special education and resource rooms
• Speech-language and occupational therapy
• Counseling groups
• Social-emotional learning (SEL) programs
• Homeschool co-ops
• After-school enrichment programs

Whether used as a full lesson, warm-up, brain break, or therapeutic tool, these games provide structure and spontaneity that support a wide age range of learners, including those with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and anxiety. 

The Power of Play Meets the Science of Learning

If you're looking for creative, research-based ways to ignite attention, improve self-control, enhance memory, and develop problem-solving skills, this print edition of Executive Functioning Games for Groups and Classes is your go-to resource.

Bring the magic of meaningful play into your classroom or practice—and watch your students’ confidence, collaboration, and cognitive agility grow.