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71+ Free Social Problem-Solving Scenarios

Do you have kiddos who struggle with their social problem-solving skills? Teach your students the simple process of how to solve a problem along with having them review how well their solution worked or didn’t work.

Learning to problem solve is an essential skill that is used not only throughout childhood but also into adulthood. Social problem solving is the ability to change or adapt to undesirable situations that arise throughout our day. On a daily basis, a child will encounter social problems that they will need to solve. Anything from arguing with another student, to hurting a friend’s feelings, to having a difficult conversation, or working with others.

Start with Small Problems

Many of the “problems” children encounter are often small problems which the child may be over-reacting to, such as wanting a different coloring crayon or wanting to be first in line, however, these small problems are still very real to the child. Practicing problem-solving with these small problems can be a great learning opportunity. Children can practice problem-solving with a small problem which can help them learn how to handle bigger problems in the future.

Problem Solving Importance

Social problem-solving skills are critical to a child’s social interactions, personal and professional relationships. A child’s ability to handle change, cope with stress, and handle challenges improves with a child’s ability to successfully solve social problems.

The ultimate goal is that the child will be able to solve social problems all on their own, but until they can independently solve a problem they will need to learn how to communicate and self-advocate to positively solve their problems.  

Students with Autism Problem Solving

Students with autism and other social challenges need to learn to problem solve as well. These social problem-solving skills will help them throughout their childhood and into their adulthood. Children can be taught how to problem solve through a guided process of breaking down the problem and using simple steps to solve the problem. Learning specific steps to problem-solving can allow children to remember how to solve a problem when they become overwhelmed or stressed. Although learning to solve a problem independently can take some time and practice it is well worth the investment to have a child who can eventually solve most social situations in a positive manner on their own.

Make Problem Solving Easier with this Freebie!

Download yours today to get started.

free social problem solving scenarios for adults

Problem Solving Form

Teach your students the 4 steps to becoming a social problem-solver.

  • Identify the problem. For instance, start by having your student identify the social problem.
  • Create three solutions. Also, have your student come up with three different solutions that they could use to solve the problem that they identified.
  • Identify the consequences. Then, identify the consequence for each individual solution.
  • Pick the best solution.  Lastly, have your student identify which of their three solutions is the best choice Then have your student put into words why they think that solution is the best solution.

Problem Solving Graphic Organizer

What we learnt about solving problems is don't freak out, if one thing doesn't work , try something else out. And work together as a team. #melthammathsweek #MELTHAMPUPILVOICE @problemsolveit pic.twitter.com/iVm1Im4Aue — yr6melthamce (@yr6melthamce) February 4, 2019

Problem Solving Review Form

After your students go through the social problem-solver have them use the social problem-solving review form.

  • What happened.  For instance, after your student tried their solution have them explain what happened next.
  • Review the results. Also, have your student identify whether or not their solution got them the results they wanted.
  • Use this solution again. Furthermore, have your student identify whether or not they would use this solution again in the future to solve the same or similar problem.
  • What would you do differently? Finally, have your student explain what they would do differently if they didn’t get the results they wanted or if they wouldn’t use that solution again in the future.

Problem-Solving-Review

71+ Social Problem Scenarios + 6 Blank Scenarios

Use the 71 social problem-solving scenarios to have your students get great experience practicing how to solve a social problem. Also, included are 6 blank scenarios. Then laminate them so you can use them over and over again. Therefore, create social problems that the student experiences and needs help solving.

Problem Solving Scenarios

Wordless Video teaching Problem Solving

Watch this super cute wordless animation with your students and have them discuss the problem they see and how to best solve the problem.

Use this as a fun practice example to get your students started towards learning how to problem-solve.

Demonstrate Through Modeling

  • Model and discuss empathy. First and foremost, children need to understand how another person might be feeling in a given situation in order to become a good social problem solver. The student needs to learn how to “stand in someone else’s shoes” for a little bit. One way you can work on this skill is during the reading time you can focus on how a particular character in the story might be feeling. Ask questions, such as, “How do they feel right now? How would you feel in that same situation? Why do you think they feel that way?”, etc.
  • Model problem-solving skills as the teacher. When you are faced with a problem you can solve the problem by thinking aloud for the students to hear how you solve a problem. You can state the problem, then come up with possible solutions, then identify the possible consequences to each solution, then pick and explain why a solution is the best option. For example, you could say, “I was hoping to take the class outside for a stress walk around the track before the reading test, but the problem is that it is raining outside. I could still take you outside, but then you will get wet, or we could walk the halls, but then we’d have to be really quiet because there are other classes learning, or we could just skip the walk and take the reading test, but then you might not do as well on the test. I think based on all of those solutions the best solution will be to walk the hallway, but you guys will have to promise to be quiet so that we don’t disrupt other classes. Modeling the problem-solving process can be very helpful for the students to watch, observe, and later implement themselves.

Teach Communication

  • Have students communicate how they are feeling . Teaching your students to share their emotions in a respectful way can improve their ability to problem-solve. Have students use an “I” sentence frame, such as, “I feel _____ (insert feeling word) when _____ (identify what made you feel that way).” For example, “I felt sad when Jackson broke my favorite pencil” or “I was mad when I wasn’t picked to be first in line. “This way students can communicate how they are feeling using honest and open communication. Teaching students to appropriately communicate their emotions can help solve some social problems from the beginning.

Encourage Independency

  • Encourage your student to problem solve. If your student is struggling to problem solve independently encourage them to do so using open-ended questions, such as “How could you fix this problem?” “What would be a fair solution?” “What would happen if you used that solution?”, etc.
  • Let the student try to problem solve independently. Give your students the space to try and solve their own problems using the guided strategies. Try not to come running to their rescue for every little problem. Some problems are small and a great opportunity for the student to learn and practice. If an adult does all of the problem solving for a student then what are they really learning. Give your students the time and space they need to practice solving small problems on their own. Of course, if it is a bigger or more serious problem then have an adult help guide the problem-solving process.
  • Tell an adult. Remind your students that there are still some problems that are too big for them to solve on their own and that it is okay to get help from an adult to solve big problems. For example, if the student doesn’t feel safe, someone is being hurt physically or emotionally, or if they tried to solve a problem independently but it didn’t work and they need help. Let them know that it’s okay to tell an adult.

Teach How to Disagree and How to Make Up

  • Discuss how to disagree respectfully. Remind your student that they won’t always agree with their teacher, friends, classmate, or parents and that’s okay. Even the people we like might have different opinions, interests, and likes than we do. However, even if we disagree with someone we should still treat them with respect. Treating someone with respect means to not call them names, ignore them, yell or hit them. It means that you do try to create solutions that both parties can agree with and to apologize when we hurt others’ feelings.
  • Role-play how to make up. Practice in everyday life how to make up after a social problem .

Get your free social problem solver today!

I hope you and your students love this freebie!

Students are really having to stretch their brains today. It's @NSPCC #NumberDay and @problemsolveit are challenging Y9 and 10 to solve the escape room boxes. It's not as easy as it looks! The promise of a few sweet treats for the winners seems to be helping though! pic.twitter.com/AxRRJnJIv2 — CongletonHS (@CongletonHS) February 2, 2018

Have your students use task card scenarios to help them identify how they and others might feel in different social scenarios. Be sure to discuss the problem, identify possible solutions, identify the consequences of those possible solutions, and then based on those consequences pick the best solution. Make social problem-solving a game by telling the students that they are social detectives and that it is their job to use what they know about social rules to help them identify the possible and best solutions. Start practicing today with 71+ free social problem social task cards! Do your students need more practice? Be sure to check out my other freebie for 31 wordless animated videos to teach problem-solving and so much more.

Get More Problem Solving Time Saving Materials

Next, be sure to check out the following time-saving materials to continue to teach your students how to solve their social problems in addition to this freebie.

Weekly Social Pragmatics Homework

Social Pragmatics Homework

  • Weekly problem-solving.   Send home a  weekly homework page  that includes a problem-solving scenario plus an idiom and a conversational practice scenario.

Weekly Social Pragmatics

Restorative Justice Problem Solving Flip Book

Restorative Justice

  • Restorative justice graphic visual.  Use this graphic visual to help your student  restore a social relationship  after a social problem.

restorative justice

Self-Advocating Role-Play Scenarios

Self Advocating

  • Self-advocating in high school.  Teach your high schoolers the process to  self-advocate  for what they need.

Self Advocating Practice

5th-12th Grade Life Skills Problem Solving

Life Skills Social Skills

  • Life skills problem-solving.  In addition, this  life skills differentiated bundle  includes a problem-solving lesson plan.

free social problem solving scenarios for adults

I recommend you read Problem Solving Wheel: Help Kids Solve Their Own Problems , 61+ Free Fillable SLP Planner Pages 2020-2021 , 430+ Free Multisyllabic Words List Activity Bundle , or 432+ Free IEP Goal Bank to Save You Time posts because they include freebies as well and who doesn’t want more freebies!

Got questions? Leave a comment. Let’s chat!

Monday 30th of January 2023

Hello! I have entered my name and email twice (yesterday & today) to receive to 71+ Free Social Problem-Solving Senarios, but I have not received anything yet. Not even an email back to mine in order to subcribe. Thanks for your help! Tracy

Melissa Berg

Tuesday 31st of January 2023

Hi Tracy, Thanks so much for reaching out! Sorry about that. We went ahead and sent you an email with the PDF attached. Wishing you all my best, Melissa

Problem Solving Skills

Tuesday 30th of August 2022

I truly love your site. Excellent colors, theme and writing. Thanks for sharing.

Laura Ricca

Monday 11th of April 2022

Tuesday 12th of April 2022

Hi Laura, I'm glad you found this resource helpful. Melissa

Modified Mental Health and Suicide Prevention - Speech Therapy Store

Monday 11th of May 2020

[…] 71+ FREE SOCIAL PROBLEM-SOLVING SCENARIOS […]

Problem Solving Wheel: Help Kids Solve Their Own Problems - Speech Therapy Store

Monday 4th of May 2020

[…] 71+ Free Social Problem Solving Task Cards Scenarios […]

Interpersonal Skills: Practical Role-Play Scenarios (Social Interaction)

  • by Team Experts
  • July 2, 2023 July 3, 2023

Discover the surprising power of interpersonal skills with these practical role-play scenarios for social interaction.

Overall, these practical role-play scenarios provide a comprehensive approach to developing interpersonal skills . By incorporating various communication techniques, active listening strategies, conflict resolution methods, empathy building exercises, nonverbal cues interpretation , assertiveness training sessions, teamwork collaboration activities , cultural sensitivity awareness, and feedback giving skills, participants can improve their ability to interact with others effectively. However, there are potential risks involved, such as participants struggling with certain aspects of the scenarios or unintentionally offending others due to cultural differences.

What are Effective Communication Techniques for Social Interaction?

What conflict resolution methods can help in social situations, how to interpret nonverbal cues in social settings, what teamwork collaboration activities enhance interpersonal relationships, how to develop feedback giving skills for better interpersonal communication, common mistakes and misconceptions.

11 Social Skills Worksheets for Seamless Social Interactions

Social Skills Worksheets

And that’s okay.

All of us, at times, experience similar feelings and find making conversation difficult while we struggle to leave a good impression (MacLeod, 2018).

Social problems can be helped. Shyness and anxiety can be identified and managed, and conversation skills can be practiced and improved.

This article provides a wealth of worksheets for building and developing social skills in children, students, and adults. You can practice them individually, in counseling, and in group sessions to become socially skilled.

Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Positive Relationships Exercises for free . These detailed, science-based exercises will help you or your clients build healthy, life-enriching relationships.

This Article Contains:

2 best social skills worksheets for adults, developing social skills: 3 worksheets for children, 4 best activities for children and teenagers, helpful worksheets for students, 3 cbt worksheets to use with clients, group counseling activities, a look at social skills training in the workplace, resources from positivepsychology.com, a take-home message.

“After you accept that you’re still going to encounter some social unease from time to time, your aim should be to become socially functional” (MacLeod, 2018, p. 48).

The following are a few worksheets that cover a wide range of social skills and considerations and, when practiced, help increase self-knowledge and social awareness.

How to Support Your Friends

Friends are a crucial part of your social network. While they can provide valuable support mechanisms for you, you must equally be there for them when they need your help (Wendler, 2020).

The How to Support Your Friends worksheet examines a situation when a friend needed your support.

  • How did you respond?
  • How can you help them in the long term?
  • How can you practice self-care?

When providing support, it is essential that you (Wendler, 2020):

  • Remain present
  • Remember, this is not about you
  • Offer support rather than solutions
  • Accept their feelings, rather than tell them how to feel
  • Try not to panic

Healthy Relationships involve both giving and receiving, and an awareness and consideration of everyone’s needs.

High- and Low-Energy Social Skills

Social skills involve a great deal of nonverbal communication , such as how we stand, how loud we speak, and even the way we tilt our heads. Such cues can provide physical indicators of empathy and help show whether we are currently high or low in energy (Wendler, 2020).

One vital way to improve our social skills is to match our energy with our partner’s or the group we find ourselves in. For example, if we enter a meeting and everyone is excited about a new product launch, low energy may mean we fail to appear part of the team.

The High- and Low-Energy Social Skills worksheet helps us consider the energy exhibited by ourselves and others and whether we match those around us.

Think of a time when a friend, colleague, partner, or group was high in energy. How did you respond? High energy or low energy?

If you matched their energy, it showed empathy and most likely helped you mix and improve your social skills.

Note that there will be times when your circumstances or events prevent you from energy matching, and it is important to practice self-care.

Self-awareness for children

The following worksheets are helpful exercises for children learning to be more socially adept and communicate successfully.

Self-Awareness for Children

Becoming more self-aware involves recognizing feelings, thoughts, and their impact on behavior (Fleming, 2021). Developing self-awareness can help children in social settings interact and be sure their needs are not overlooked.

The Self-Awareness for Children worksheet practices self-awareness and self-knowledge by asking the child (or group of children) a series of questions regarding how they are feeling and what they are thinking.

Becoming more self-aware can increase the child’s empathy and understanding of their own and others’ hopes, wishes, and needs.

Responsible Decision-Making for Children

Making a decision can be stressful, and not making one can be worse. Our choices often have social implications, building or damaging relationships, so they need to be taken carefully (Peters, 2018).

The Responsible Decision-Making for Children worksheet prompts the child to reflect on the likely social implications of their choices and how to show respect to themselves and others.

The important decisions we make can have far-reaching impacts. We should give ourselves time to gather information, consider the options and their impact, and seek the help needed.

Good Choices – Bad Choices for kids

When children have friends making bad choices that are potentially detrimental to themselves and the social groups around them, it can be all too easy to follow suit (Daniels & Rabar, 2019).

The Good Choices – Bad Choices worksheet can help children reflect on their friends’ poor decisions and how to react to the social pressure and the situation.

free social problem solving scenarios for adults

Download 3 Free Positive Relationships Exercises (PDF)

These detailed, science-based exercises will equip you or your clients to build healthy, life-enriching relationships.

Download 3 Positive Relationships Pack (PDF)

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Activities where children visualize, role-play, or work through social interactions and engagements can develop their understanding, awareness, self-confidence, and self-knowledge.

And “like any other skill, practice makes perfect” (Daniels & Rabar, 2019, p. 13).

The following activities can be adjusted according to the child’s age and should include appropriate support and supervision (modified from Daniels & Rabar, 2019):

  • Going blindfolded A lack of social skills can feel like walking around blindfolded. Find somewhere safe where the child feels comfortable. Blindfold them and ask them to attempt to make their way toward the door.

Once finished, tell them that, as with walking blindfolded, you may find you bump into things, sometimes feel lost, and need a little help as you develop your social skills.

  • People watching Creating narratives can help make sense of a complex social environment. Find a safe location where you can watch people and their lives drift by (perhaps a cafe or transit station). Ask the child to choose a person or couple and make up a story about their lives, including where they are going and why.

Ask the child to say what they saw and heard that helped them make up the story.

  • Questions to start conversations Striking up conversations with people they don’t know can be difficult for children (and adults too).

Sit with the child and write down a list of questions that could be helpful when starting conversations in various situations, for example:

Do you have any pets? What are their names? How was your weekend? What did you do?

Then practice the questions and conversation building in pairs.

  • Throwing it back It is useful to learn how to keep a conversation going. Explain to the child that one of the easiest ways to continue a conversation is when someone asks you a question, answer it, and then throw another one back. It’s like catching and throwing a ball.

Practice making up situations, questions, and answers in pairs.

For example:

What are you up to over the weekend? I am going swimming. What about you?

It’s a simple trick and can lead to the next point for discussion.

Social skills for students

But it takes practice, and mistakes are inevitable.

The following two worksheets consider what friendship means to the individual and help clarify their self-concept.

What Does Friendship Mean to Me?

Use the What Does Friendship Mean to Me? worksheet to reflect on why friendship is so important to the individual. While increasing feelings of relatedness and closeness, understanding friendship can also help clarify social interactions and keep individual needs in mind.

Use this awareness to appreciate your friends and recognize when people are not showing you friendship.

Self-Concept for Conversations

Conversation is easier when you can speak clearly about who you are.

Use the Self-Concept for Conversations worksheet to summarize how you think about yourself. An explicit self-concept will make it easier to introduce yourself in social situations.

Revise the answers before meeting others in a social environment. They can lead to further conversations.

How to comfort a friend who is hurting (exactly what to say) – How Communication Works

Adopting the right mindset is crucial for dealing with anxiety, shyness, and the lack of confidence that causes social discomfort (MacLeod, 2018).

It’s important to recognize that it is not always the situation that causes the problem, but our beliefs regarding that situation.

The following worksheets provide three valuable techniques for considering and replacing unhelpful thinking:

  • ABC Functional Analysis By understanding both the causes and the effects of your client’s behavior , you can help them recognize social behavior standing in the way of their goals.
  • Coping Styles Formulation When confronted with challenging social situations, we sometimes attempt to escape or put up defenses. Understanding the problem and the existing coping style makes it possible to develop more adaptive coping strategies.
  • Graded Exposure Therapy Social situations can lead to fear and avoidance. Safe environments can be created to manage exposure and learn how to become more comfortable in difficult situations.

Group counseling activities

Sharing our insecurities

Discussing real or imagined socially awkward or difficult situations can help us understand our own and others’ fears and reflect on our coping strategies.

Within the group, discuss the following points and their impact (modified from MacLeod, 2018):

  • Accept that nervousness comes from valued goals Discomfort can be put in perspective and may even be worthwhile if pursuing something meaningful.
  • Accept that it’s okay to show what you are experiencing When we stop worrying whether we appear nervous or scared, anxiety loosens its grip.
  • Tell people when you feel shy or insecure Most people have been through similar experiences. Casually share your concerns and move on.
  • Recognize that it’s normal to get nervous There is nothing wrong with you. As humans, we are set up to have these feelings. Permit yourself to have them.

Ask the group to share experiences to normalize their insecurities.

Coping with social anxiety

A group setting is a great place to discuss complex social situations that cause anxiety and shyness. Individuals can share helpful strategies they adopt to manage difficult thoughts and feelings.

Discuss within the group how the following might help (modified from MacLeod, 2018):

  • Riding out the symptoms We don’t always need to escape or avoid the situation. For example, leading up to a presentation, nervousness may boost your energy and invigorate what you share.
  • Challenging your thinking Question whether the thinking that is feeding your anxiety is valid or helpful. Challenging your thoughts can reduce their effect.
  • Distracting yourself Find something else to focus on. Thinking through the plot of a favorite film, playing through a cherished piece of music in your head, or thinking about your children can take the focus off what is causing you upset and give you time to become calm.
  • Breathing exercises Breathing exercises where you breathe out more slowly than you breathe in can engage the parasympathetic system and settle your mind and body (Nestor, 2020). Take a few slow, deep breaths. Make the out-breath slow through pursed lips if it helps.

Ask the group to share other communication techniques that help them through social situations.

Telling a good story

Sharing personal stories can be a great way to build connections with the people you meet. However, start small. Begin with a semi-personal story and see how they react (Wendler, 2020).

Daniel Wendler (2020) suggests making the story enjoyable by sharing what was going on in your head at the time, rather than simply the facts. It will help the listener experience the narrative and build a connection with you.

Once finished, rather than continue by telling another story, share the spotlight so that everyone gets a turn.

The Telling a Good Story worksheet can help you think about the stories you could share in a social situation and identify the points to cover. Practice them with a partner or in front of the group and ask for their open and honest feedback. Not only is this practice helpful, but it provides valuable insight into what works well and what doesn’t.

Gaining valuable emotional awareness can help us relate to others personally and professionally. While emotional intelligence training benefits social skills in general, it is particularly valuable in the workplace (Goleman, 2018).

Here are some particularly relevant training options:

  • Emotional Intelligence Masterclass© Our masterclass is a complete, six-module emotional intelligence training template for helping professionals to understand and use their emotions in life-enriching ways. This masterclass will provide you with all the tools, materials, and knowledge required to make an impactful difference.
  • EI Masterclass: Embodied Emotional Intelligence Beyond EI teaches the principles behind emotional intelligence and how to practice them. You will learn to become more aware of what provides meaning in your own life while regaining control.

free social problem solving scenarios for adults

17 Exercises for Positive, Fulfilling Relationships

Empower others with the skills to cultivate fulfilling, rewarding relationships and enhance their social wellbeing with these 17 Positive Relationships Exercises [PDF].

Created by experts. 100% Science-based.

Improving social skills makes it possible to strengthen communication with friends, family, and colleagues and build stronger, enduring relationships.

Why not download our free emotional intelligence tool pack and try out the powerful tools contained within? Some examples include:

  • Building Emotional Awareness Use this valuable script and audio to foster your emotional intelligence by mindfully attending to current emotional states.
  • Decoding Emotions by Analyzing Speech, Body, and Face Accurately perceiving and understanding people’s emotions is a core component of emotional intelligence.

Other free resources include:

  • Conflict Resolution Checklist This 10-item checklist is a valuable method for ensuring conflict is resolved.
  • TRAPS to Avoid and TIPS for Success Adopt these helpful tips to avoid closed thinking and put in place productive, positive, and receptive communication

More extensive versions of the following tools are available with a subscription to the Positive Psychology Toolkit© , but they are described briefly below:

  • Small Talk to Build Connection

This tool helps people connect through practicing small talk with people they don’t yet know.

Many of us opt to keep to ourselves rather than strike up a conversation with a stranger, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

  • Step one – Identify the reasons for avoiding small talk.
  • Step two – Choose a context for engaging in small talk.
  • Step three – Find a topic for making the connection.
  • Step four – Find a time and a place to practice the approach.

The final stage is to evaluate the success of the approach.

  • Team Branding

Perceived, rather than actual, team branding is crucial for effective team performance.

We can foster team interactions by creating team identity.

  • Step one – In small groups, identify the team’s strengths.
  • Step two – Gather all the responses into cohesive headings.
  • Step three – Assign each small group a task such as creating a team name, slogan, mission statement, etc.
  • Step four – Have each team present their findings.

Reflect on the new team identity.

If you’re looking for more science-based ways to help others build healthy relationships, this collection contains 17 validated positive relationships tools for practitioners. Use them to help others form healthier, more nurturing, and life-enriching relationships.

Feeling socially uncomfortable – shy, nervous, and awkward – can prevent us from reaching our social and professional potential.

While it is something all of us have faced, we can work through it and build skills for seamless social interactions.

First, we must recognize that we are not likely to remove all of our insecurities. Second, we should remind ourselves that all of us feel a degree of discomfort at times, and it does not have to ruin social engagement.

Importantly, we should remember that social interactions require balance. Taking turns with the spotlight is crucial, and so is focusing on the needs of the parties involved.

We must also consider energy levels, self-awareness, the choices we make, and our self-concept if we are to build lasting, deep relationships with those we meet.

While getting to know new people is not easy, the investment is worthwhile, and practice will make it easier.

This article contains plenty of worksheets and tools to get you started and maintain your journey toward building the social skills to lead the life that is right for you. Good luck.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Don’t forget to download our three Positive Relationships Exercises for free .

  • Daniels, N., & Rabar, S. (2019). Social skills activities for kids: 50 Fun activities for making friends, talking and listening, and understanding social rules . Rockridge Press.
  • Fleming, S. (2021). Know thyself . Basic Books.
  • Goleman, D. (2018). The first component of emotional intelligence. In Self-awareness (pp. 1–10). Harvard Business Review Press.
  • MacLeod, C. (2018). The social skills guidebook: Manage shyness, improve your conversations, and make friends, without giving up who you are . Author.
  • Matson, J. (2018). Handbook of social behavior and skills in children . Springer.
  • Nestor, J. (2020).  Breath: The new science of a lost art . Penguin Books.
  • Peters, S. (2018). The silent guides: Understanding and developing the mind throughout life . Lagom.
  • Wendler, D. (2020). Improve your social skills . Author.

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Problem Solving Games, Activities & Exercises for Adults

Here is our list of the best problem solving games, activities and exercises for adults.

Problem solving games are activities that require players to use critical thinking skills to solve puzzles. Example activities include escape rooms, Sudoku, and murder mysteries. The purpose of these exercises is to sharpen reasoning and decision-making skills in group settings and to do team building with employees.

These activities are a subset of remote team games , found in problem solving books , and are similar to team puzzles , team building brain teasers and team riddles .

problem-solving-games

This article contains:

  • team building problem solving activities for employees
  • free problem solving games for adults
  • virtual problem solving activities for students
  • group problem solving activities
  • problem solving team builders

Here we go!

List of problem solving games & activities

From word and number puzzles to role-playing games, here is a list of inexpensive and free problem solving team builders that help groups practice the art of critical thinking and compromise.

1. Espionage! (Team Favorite)

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For an exciting game of social deduction, check out Espionage! This thrilling experience will put your team’s wits and instincts to the test.

Espionage! offers the following:

  • a 90-minute session led by an experienced host
  • undercover teams of agents and spies
  • challenging puzzles, tasks, and maneuvers
  • team conversations to help uncover secret identities

The best part is we will bring all the necessary game materials to your preferred location. If you are interested in boosting communication and critical-thinking skills within your team, then consider Espionage!

Learn more about Espionage!

2. Art Heist: The Vanishing of Van Gogh (Hosted)

free social problem solving scenarios for adults

You can turn your team into skilled detectives with Art Heist: The Vanishing of Van Gogh! In this captivating mystery, participants will locate the stolen artwork, The Bedroom .

Key features of this experience include:

  • a 90-minute adventure led by a world-class host
  • detailed puzzles, clues, and mysteries to unravel
  • trails of evidence and hidden secrets
  • group discussions to find the art

Additionally, you can include a cocktail kit to spice up your event. Through Art Heist, you will enhance your team’s ingenuity and problem-solving skills!

Learn more about Art Heist: The Vanishing of Van Gogh .

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3. War of the Wizards (Popular)

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With War of the Wizards, teams roleplay as minions of powerful wizards to vanquish forces of evil. Participants will play thrilling games and go on a quest to restore harmony to the realm!

War of the Wizards offers the following:

  • a 90-minute journey guided by a distinguished host
  • immersive storytelling that transports players into a magical realm
  • engaging activities like world-building, role-playing games, and storytelling
  • opportunities for forming alliances, facing challenges, and going on quests

Through the power of imagination and teamwork, your team can overcome tasks and participate in an epic fantasy battle. To improve communication and bonds, include War of the Wizards in your agenda!

Learn more about War of the Wizards .

Sudoku is one of the most popular free problem solving games for adults. The objective of this game is to fill each box of a 9×9 grid so that every row, column, and letter contains each number from one to nine. The puzzle makes a great team challenge. To play Sudoku on Zoom, screen share the game board. Then, turn on the annotation features. Using the add text functions, participants can fill in the numbers on the grid.

We made a starter puzzle you can use in your next meeting or virtual team bonding session:

Sudoku game-board

Here are more online Sudoku puzzles .

5. Crossword puzzles

Crossword puzzles are word games that ask players to fill in words based on clues. Words interconnect, and players must think critically about the surrounding words to select the right phrase for the space.

You can use an online crossword puzzle maker to create a custom puzzle. Here are a few themes you may want to consider:

  • teammates’ tastes and interests
  • company knowledge and history
  • industry terms and trends

Or, create a miscellaneous puzzle just for fun.

We made a sample puzzle you can use for your game:

free crossword template

To complete puzzles during online meetings, you can use the share screen function and add text through annotations.

Or, subscribers can play the New York Times’ daily crossword puzzle virtually . Dictionary.com also offers a free daily online crossword puzzle .

Check out more vocabulary games .

6. Online Escape Rooms

Escape rooms are timed games that get groups working together to solve puzzles. Traditionally, players enter a locked room and must complete all puzzles in an hour or two to unlock the door. However, groups can also play escape rooms online.

Digital escape rooms typically come in one of two forms: in a Zoom room and led by a host, or in a choose-your-own adventure format via Google Forms or websites. To play escape rooms virtually, enter a video meeting and follow the prompts, or screen share the Google Form and work out the puzzles together.

Check out our full list of online escape rooms .

7. Murder Mysteries

Murder Mysteries are story-based games that ask players to take on the roles of suspects or detectives while trying to identify a killer. These games often involve reading lines from a script, searching for clues, and occasionally solving puzzles to get hints.

These games make participants pay attention to conversations, analyze other characters’ behavior, and search for hidden meaning in the script. Players must use their powers of observation and logic to unravel the mystery.

Check out our list of Zoom murder mystery games .

8. Treasure Hunts

Treasure hunts are scavenger hunts with intention. While virtual scavenger hunts often ask players to collect random items, treasure hunts require participants to locate clues that lead to other prompts and hints. The game typically ends with players finding a treasure or solving a mystery, sometimes both.

The treasure hunt can have a specific theme such as secret agent missions or a hunt for pirate treasure, or you can run a more general hunt. Teammates can either compete simultaneously via Zoom call, or can play the hunt on an app individually and compete to beat each other’s scores.

Check out our list of treasure hunt apps .

9. Poem or story challenge

Most team building problem solving activities for employees revolve around science, math, and logic. Poem/story challenges rely on writing skills and are sure to appeal to the language lovers on your team.

Each player receives a limited word bank to use to create a story or poem. Then, players have a few minutes to craft their pieces. Afterward, everyone reads out or screen shares their creations.

Here are a few word challenge activities you can do remotely:

  • Found poems or stories : Participants make poems or stories out of words they find by visiting websites, searching emails, glancing out the window, or taking a walk or drive around the neighborhood.
  • Random word generators : Teammates use a random word generator to populate a word bank, and must use each word in the poem or story.
  • Poetry magnets : Group members make poems using poetry magnets. You can send poetry magnet sets to employees and assemble the verses on a cookie pan during a Zoom call. Or, teammates can play with poetry magnets online .
  • Page poems: Participants receive one page of a book or magazine, and must make a poem or story by blocking out other words so only the chosen text remains visible. This activity is part storytelling, part art, since story crafters can illustrate the pages as part of the design.
  • Ransom note stories or poems : Players cut out letters from magazines and must form new words to make poems and stories. Or, players can receive a mix of random letters, form words, and run the text through a ransom note generator .

These activities are suitable for teams and individual players.

10. Moral challenge

Some problems are ethical rather than factual. Moral judgment plays just as important a role in the decision-making process as technical prowess. Players can flex their moral problem-solving skills by tackling ethical dilemmas or social puzzles.

Here are some social problem solving games online:

  • Moral machine
  • Scruples – the game of moral dilemmas
  • Morality play

To play these games, either download the apps, or pull up the website and then screen share the prompts. These games are best played when discussed as a group, because the more belief systems and opinions, the harder an issue is to resolve. These exercises provide practice for real-life conflict resolution.

You can find similar challenges on our list of online personality tests .

11. Frostbite

Frostbite is a group game that hones team leaders’ communication skills while sharpening teammates’ listening and cooperation skills. The premise behind the game is that a group of explorers gets caught in a snowstorm and must build a shelter. Frostbite has paralyzed the leaders’ hands and snow-blinded the rest of the team. The leader must give the team instructions to build a tent that can resist arctic winds.

To play Frostbite, each teammate wears a blindfold. Then, the leader gives directions. Once the structures are complete, players turn on a fan to test whether tents can withstand the wind.

Frostbite is usually an in-person game, however you can also play virtually. In the remote version of the game, teammates construct tents out of cards and tape, while the leader surveys the scene on screen.

This exercise demonstrates the challenges of leading remotely, as teams need to operate with minimal oversight or supervisor observation. Therefore, instructions need to be clear and direct to be effective.

Check out more team building games .

12. Virtual Hackathons

Hackathons are events where participants have a set amount of time to design and pitch a new product or solution. This type of event originated in the programming world and is often used to create new apps, however you can apply the game to any industry or school subject.

Virtual hackathons are online versions of the event. Teams enter the competition, then work with each other via virtual meeting software or remote work communication platforms to design the solution. At the end of the competition, teams pitch ideas to a panel of judges and a winner is decided.

To run a virtual hackathon, first announce the theme of the event and collect sign-ups. So that no teams work ahead, hint at the general idea of the issue, and only explain the precise problem when the event begins. Then, give teams anywhere from a few hours to a few days to complete the project.

Discover more virtual hackathon ideas .

13. Improv games

Improv games are excellent problem solving activities. These exercises force participants to think and respond quickly to keep scenes moving in a logical and entertaining way.

Here are some good problem solving improv games:

Banned words : Performers cannot say certain words. Scene partners will conceive of situations that encourage the actors to use those words, and the actors must find alternatives, such as using synonyms or taking the scene in a new direction.

Scenes from a chat : Audience gives a suggestion for a scene, and players act the scene out. Though it’s a fictional and often ridiculous scenario, actors must react to the situation and solve the problem in order for the scene to end.

Miracle cure : Miracle cure is a quick-moving exercise that follows a simple format. One player declares, “I have a problem.” Another player responds, “I have a….[random object.]” The first player then replies, “great! I can use the [random object] to….” and describes how they will solve the problem.

Check out more problem-solving improv games .

14. Spaghetti Tower

The spaghetti tower is a classic team building game. Participants gather uncooked spaghetti and marshmallows, and must construct the tallest freestanding tower.

During the in-person version, players must construct one tall freestanding tower. However, for the virtual version of the game, players construct individual towers. You can send groups to breakout rooms for the build, then reconvene in the main room for judging. Teams are judged on three main factors: number of towers, height, and uniformity.

This version of the game not only tests the structural integrity of the tower, but also consistency and quality control. This exercise teaches teams to align and collaborate remotely, and produce a consistent product even when far apart.

15. What Would You Do?

What Would You Do? is a simple situational game that challenges participants to react to different circumstances. To play this game, read prompts one by one, and then ask participants to respond with gameplans. You can use the polling or raise hand feature to vote for the best option.

Here are some problem solving scenarios for adults or kids to use in the game:

  • Zombies attack and you have to find a place to hide.
  • You are at the zoo and the animals escape. Which one do you try to corral back into the pen first?
  • After waiting in line for hours, someone cuts in front of you last minute. The person appears to be visually and hearing impaired, and doesn’t notice your protests. An official announces that due to diminishing supply, this individual will be the last in line to be served.
  • You are eating a meal with important clients and/or your partner’s parents, and you want to impress. The individuals make you a dish that does not fit within your dietary restrictions, but you do not speak the same language and cannot explain why you do not want to eat.
  • An imposter has infiltrated the organization, who looks, speaks, and behaves exactly like you. How do you convince your peers that you are the original?

For similar dilemmas, check out this list of Would You Rather? questions.

16. Desert Island Survival

Desert Island Survival is a game that challenges players to prioritize. The premise is that players have been stranded on an island, and must decide what order to perform survival steps.

Here are the possible actions:

  • Set up shelter
  • Explore the island
  • Try to signal for help
  • Make weapons for self-defense
  • Build a raft to escape the island
  • Start a fire
  • Choose a group leader
  • Search for other survivors

All group members must agree on the order of the steps. Players should explain the reasoning for the order of each step while ranking the actions.

Another version of the game involves players receiving a list of 15 to 20 items, and selecting five or so to bring to the island. You can also vary the location of the game, substituting remote islands for destinations like outer space or the distant past.

17. Choose Your Own Adventure

Choose Your Own Adventure stories enable readers to determine the outcome of the story by making decisions. Each action has a consequence that takes the tale in a different direction. Participants can try to guess how the story may unfold by talking through the different choices. When completing the activity in a group setting, the majority of the team must agree on an action before moving forward in the story.

There are a few ways to facilitate these activities online:

  • Play an online role playing video game
  • Watch an interactive movie like Black Mirror: Bandersnatch
  • Read from a Choose Your Own Adventure book on Zoom
  • Click through a Choose Your Own Adventure platform
  • Create your own story using a Google Form

Whichever way you choose to do the exercise, you can use the screen share feature in your virtual meeting software so that listeners can more easily follow along.

18. MacGyver

MacGyver is a show where the hero escapes sticky situations by improvising tools out of unlikely materials. For example, in one episode the hero makes a telescope out of a newspaper, magnifying lens, and a watch crystal.

To play MacGyver, you can either list three to five objects participants can use, or challenge players to use items that are within arms reach.

Simply state a desired end result, such as “a way to open a locked door,” or “a getaway vehicle,” and then ask teams to explain what they will build and how they will build it. To make the activity more collaborative, you can give teams five or ten minutes in breakout rooms to strategize and design a prototype.

19. Dungeons & Dragons

Dungeons & Dragons is a roleplaying game where players pretend to be magical figures and creatures. One player serves as the dungeon master, who guides the game, while the other players pick characters and make decisions to move the story forward. Upon choosing a course of action, players roll a twenty-sided die to determine whether or not the plan succeeds. The game is story-based, the possibilities are nearly limitless, and truly creative problem solving options arise. Also, since gameplay is mostly verbal, Dungeons & Dragons is an easy activity to do over Zoom.

Here are the basic rules for Dungeons & Dragons .

20. Pandemic

Pandemic is a game that pits players against the forces of nature in a race to contain and control disease outbreaks. At the beginning of the game, each player receives a role such as containment specialist or operations expert. Participants must carry out the duties of their roles by choosing appropriate actions. Pandemic is a great game for groups because each team member has a clear part to play, and players must collaborate and work together instead of competing against each other.

To play the game online, you can use a Pandemic game app , or talk through the exercise while one attendee moves and displays pieces on the board.

Note: The subject of this game might hit too close to home for some players, considering recent history. You can find games with similar mechanics that deal with different subject matter, such as Forbidden Island.

Check out more team building board games .

21. Model UN

Model UN is one of the best virtual problem solving activities for students. This exercise casts participants in the role of international diplomats who must negotiate to solve realistic problems. Each player assumes the role of a country ambassador and must form alliances and propose solutions to solve crises.

Here are some sample Model UN scenarios:

  • Human rights violation by powerful country
  • Food shortage
  • Disease epidemic
  • Technology privacy violations
  • Civil war branching into surrounding countries
  • Natural disasters

Depending on the size of the group, participants either take on the part of an entire government of a country, or play a certain role within the government. To carry out the activity on Zoom, players can take turns giving speeches, message other countries privately via the chat, meet in breakout rooms to form alliances or have more intimate discussions, and use the polling feature to vote on propositions.

If politics does not resonate with your group, then you can alter the exercise by applying the same activity structure to a different theme, such as the Justice League, movie characters, business board members, or reality TV stars.

The main purpose of the exercise is to research, talk through problems, and compromise. As long as these elements are present, then the specifics of the setup do not matter.

There are many types of problem solving activities for adults. You can do online problem solving games, which require a different skill set than in-person problem solving. For instance, communication must be much clearer and more abundant when group members are far apart and unable to demonstrate or pick up physical cues.

Though many problem solving games include props and in-person elements, there are many games you can play together online. These exercises work well as educational tools as well as team bonding accelerators. Upon completion, participants are likely to feel a sense of accomplishment and increased confidence. These games are also great practice for real life conflict resolution, creative thinking and team building.

Next check out this list of connection games , this collection of crime-solving games , and this post with conflict resolution games .

We also have a list of the best decision making books and a list of team building problems for work .

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FAQ: Problem solving activities

Here are common answers to questions about group problem solving activities.

What are problem solving games?

Problem solving games are challenges that ask players to think critically and use logic to overcome issues or answer riddles. Examples include sudoku, murder mysteries, and spaghetti towers. These games are also known as “problem solving exercises”, “problem and solution games” and “group problem solving activities.”

What are the best problem solving games for groups?

The best problem solving games for groups include online escape rooms, moral challenges, and improv games.

What are some good problem solving team building activities for students?

Some good problem solving activities for students include crossword puzzles, choose your own adventure stories, and model UN.

How do you play problem solving games online?

The best way to play problem solving games online is to join a video call meeting to talk through the issue. Using the screen sharing and digital whiteboard features helps participants visualize the problem more clearly. Breakout rooms give teams the chance to discuss the issue more intimately.

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Author: Angela Robinson

Marketing Coordinator at teambuilding.com. Team building content expert. Angela has a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and worked as a community manager with Yelp to plan events for businesses.

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Home » Blog » General » Practical Social Problem Solving Scenarios for Better Emotional Development

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Practical Social Problem Solving Scenarios for Better Emotional Development

As we navigate through life, we encounter various social situations that require problem-solving skills. These skills are not only essential for resolving conflicts and making decisions, but they also play a crucial role in our emotional development. Developing effective social problem-solving skills can help us build healthier relationships, improve our communication, and enhance our overall well-being.

Understanding Social Problem Solving

Social problem solving refers to the process of identifying, analyzing, and resolving social conflicts or challenges. It involves a series of steps that enable individuals to find appropriate solutions to interpersonal problems. The components of social problem solving include:

  • Identifying the problem
  • Generating possible solutions
  • Evaluating the pros and cons of each solution
  • Selecting the best solution
  • Implementing the chosen solution
  • Reflecting on the outcome

Developing social problem-solving skills offers numerous benefits. It enhances our ability to communicate effectively, understand others’ perspectives, and make informed decisions. It also promotes empathy, emotional regulation, and collaboration, which are essential for building positive relationships.

Practical Social Problem Solving Scenarios

Let’s explore some practical social problem-solving scenarios to better understand how these skills can be applied in real-life situations:

Scenario 1: Dealing with a disagreement with a friend

Step 1: Identifying the problem – Recognize the specific issue causing the disagreement.

Step 2: Generating possible solutions – Brainstorm different ways to resolve the disagreement.

Step 3: Evaluating the pros and cons of each solution – Consider the potential outcomes and consequences of each solution.

Step 4: Selecting the best solution – Choose the solution that is most likely to lead to a positive outcome.

Step 5: Implementing the chosen solution – Put the selected solution into action.

Step 6: Reflecting on the outcome – Evaluate the effectiveness of the chosen solution and learn from the experience.

Scenario 2: Handling peer pressure

Step 1: Recognizing the pressure – Identify when you are being influenced or pressured by others.

Step 2: Analyzing the situation – Assess the potential risks and consequences of giving in to peer pressure.

Step 3: Considering personal values and goals – Reflect on your own values and goals to make an informed decision.

Step 4: Generating alternative responses – Come up with different ways to respond to the peer pressure.

Step 5: Choosing the most appropriate response – Select the response that aligns with your values and goals.

Step 6: Evaluating the outcome – Reflect on the outcome of your response and learn from the experience.

Scenario 3: Resolving conflicts with siblings

Step 1: Identifying the conflict – Recognize the specific issue causing the conflict with your sibling.

Step 2: Understanding each other’s perspectives – Listen to your sibling’s point of view and try to understand their perspective.

Step 3: Brainstorming possible solutions – Generate different ideas for resolving the conflict.

Step 4: Negotiating and compromising – Find a solution that satisfies both parties by compromising and negotiating.

Step 5: Implementing the agreed-upon solution – Put the agreed-upon solution into action.

Step 6: Reflecting on the resolution – Evaluate the effectiveness of the resolution and learn from the experience.

Tips for Effective Social Problem Solving

Developing effective social problem-solving skills requires practice and the application of certain strategies. Here are some tips to enhance your social problem-solving abilities:

1. Active listening and empathy: Listen attentively to others, try to understand their perspectives, and show empathy towards their feelings and experiences.

2. Communication skills: Develop effective communication skills, including expressing yourself clearly, assertively, and respectfully.

3. Emotional regulation techniques: Learn strategies to manage and regulate your emotions, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and positive self-talk.

4. Collaboration and teamwork: Foster a collaborative mindset and work together with others to find mutually beneficial solutions.

Resources for Further Learning

If you’re interested in further developing your social problem-solving skills, here are some resources that can help:

1. Recommended books on social problem solving: Explore books like “The Social Skills Guidebook” by Chris MacLeod and “Social Skills Activities for Secondary Students with Special Needs” by Darlene Mannix.

2. Online courses and workshops: Enroll in online courses or workshops that focus on social problem solving and emotional development.

3. Social problem solving scenarios PDF download: Access a downloadable PDF of social problem solving scenarios to practice and apply your skills in various situations.

Developing social problem-solving skills is crucial for our emotional development and overall well-being. By practicing these skills, we can improve our communication, build healthier relationships, and make better decisions. Remember to actively listen, communicate effectively, regulate your emotions, and collaborate with others. Start your journey towards better social problem-solving skills by exploring the resources available and applying them in your everyday life.

Start your EverydaySpeech Free trial today and begin developing your social problem-solving skills for better emotional development.

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22 Social Scenarios for Speech Therapy Practice

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Social Scenarios

  • You were at school and you were running in the hallway. You ran past a teacher and she gave you a look. What kind of look do you think was on her face and why? What do you think you should do?
  • You are playing cards with some kids and one of them burps out loud. His face turns red and everyone looks at him. Why did his face turn red? Why did everyone look at him? How do you think he felt? What could you say or do?
  • You got home from school really late because you stopped by the river on the way home and threw rocks. When you walked in the door your mom had a worried look on her face. What does a worried face look like? Why was she worried? What do you think you should say or do?
  • After soccer practice you hand out birthday invitations to everyone except a little boy you didn’t know. As you were leaving you saw him crying and talking to his mom. Why was the boy crying? What could you do or say?
  • After dinner on Friday night you wanted to go to the movies, but your mom said no because she didn’t have enough time to wash the dishes, pick up your sister, and get you to the movie theater on time. How do you feel about this? What could you do or say so that you could still go to the movies?
  • Your sister was out riding her new bike. She suddenly came running in the house crying. Why do you think she was crying and what could you do about it?
  • Your teacher asked what kind of cupcake everyone wanted and you said you didn’t care, but the girl next to you said she wanted chocolate. Your teacher passed the cupcakes out and you got chocolate. You were about to eat it when you noticed the girl next to you had a sad face and had not touched her cupcake yet. What did her face look like? Why do you think she felt sad? What could you do about it?
  • You were at school having quiet free time. Everyone could choose something they wanted to do, so you chose to draw. You got out your favorite clicking pen that turned different colors every time you clicked. You were playing with your pen and you looked over at the girl next to you who was reading. She looked at you with a different look on her face that wasn’t very nice. What kind of face do you think she gave you? Why do you think she looked at you that way? What could you do about it?
  • You are watching a movie with your little sister about the coolest monster ever. You look over at you sister and she has a scared look on her face. Why do you think she looks scared? What could you do or say?
  • A girl in your class is bossy and not very nice. One day she brought cookies for her birthday and handed them out to everyone one by one. When she got to you, she set the cookie on your desk, and then looked at you with her eyebrows raised and her mouth pursed. Why did she do that? What did her face mean? What should you do?
  • Someone in your class teased you because you got so many wrong on your spelling test. How did you feel? What did you do?
  • Your friends finished their work, but you weren't finished yet. They were playing a game. How would you feel? What would you do?
  • The teacher asked you a question in class, but you didn't know the answer. How do you feel? What do you do?
  • Your schedule changed.  You will have an assembly instead of your favorite art class. How do you feel and what do you do about it?
  • You were working on a test and the bell rang.  You were not done. How do you feel? What would you do?
  • Some students in class are telling lies about your friend. How does that make you feel and what would you do?
  • You noticed the new girl in class didn't have anyone to play with during recess. How would you feel if you were her? What would you do?
  • Your friend got a new haircut.  You really liked it. What could you do?
  • You and a friend were playing a game. Another classmate asked to join your game. What would you say?
  • Your friend was shooting baskets in PE class and missed every shot. How do you think he felt and what would you do?
  • In the lunch room, your friend dropped his tray and his food went all over the floor. What do you think he is feeling and what would you do?
  • While you were walking in the hall, a girl tripped you and started laughing. How does that make you feel and what would you do about it?

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free social problem solving scenarios for adults

This list of functional words was professionally selected to be the most useful for a child or adult who has difficulty with social scenarios.

We encourage you to use this list when practicing social scenarios at home.

Home practice will make progress toward meeting individual language goals much faster.

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are only able to see students/clients 30-60 mins (or less) per week. This is not enough time or practice for someone to strengthen their understanding of and responses to different social scenarios.

Every day that your loved one goes without social scenarios practice it becomes more difficult to help them. 

SEE ALSO:   The Best Books for Speech Therapy Practice

Speech therapy books for targeting multiple goals

We know life is busy , but if you're reading this you're probably someone who cares about helping their loved one as much as you can.

Practice 5-10 minutes whenever you can, but try to do it on a consistent basis (daily).

Please, please, please use this list to practice.

It will be a great benefit to you and your loved one's progress.

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Written By Shweta

67 Thoughtful Social Skill Activities for Adults to Help You Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

  • Post author: Shweta Gautam
  • Post published: August 25, 2023
  • Post category: SELF IMPROVEMENT
  • Post comments: 0 Comments

Social skills are your ability to interact and communicate with others effectively . These are the skills that build and maintain your relationships, both personally and professionally. From making friends to succeeding in the workplace, they play a crucial role in your everyday lives, 

Developing strong social skills can improve your overall wellbeing and enhance the quality of your life.

While some people find it easy to socialize, others have a hard time building the momentum to stay consistent and open up with their peers. 

Whether it is at home or the workplace, some people prefer to stay in their lane and not let others get into their zone of comfort. 

However, studies suggest that poor social skills are not very reliable in the long run. They can lead to loneliness and unwanted stress which can result in poor health both physically and mentally Hence, it is important to step out of your comfort zone and mingle with others. 

If you are one of those people who have a hard time opening up and connecting with the people around you, you are at the right place. This blog will help you overcome your challenges and indulge in social skill activities that will make it easier for you to step out of your comfort zone and feel more included in your environment. 

Social skills are an important set of skills that everyone must learn and implement in their day-to-day life. 

We are social beings, it is in our nature to be socially compatible and interact with the people around us. Thus, l et’s understand what makes social skills such an important part of your life. 

Why are Social Skills Important? 

Social skills are at the core of human interaction. When you lack social skills, you cannot convey your emotions and hear other people. 

Poor social skills can cause social isolation which can make you unseen, unheard, and neglected which can take a toll on you in the long run. Hence, you need to develop your social skills and become more included in your environment.  

Effective communication is the center of social skills. It involves both verbal and nonverbal aspects, such as listening, speaking, body language, and facial expressions. 

Good communication helps you to express yourself clearly, understand others’ perspectives, and build meaningful connections. 

Social skills also include other important skills like emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, teamwork, empathy, problem-solving, active listening, and more.

Social skills are your set of abilities that allow you to interact authoritatively and harmoniously with others in various social settings. 

Developing strong social skills is also important for your personal and professional success.

In your personal life, social skills enable you to build and maintain healthy relationships , establish strong social connections, and navigate social situations with ease. 

Strong social skills mean you have effective communication skills, understanding, and empathy that foster better connections and deeper bonds with others. They also enhance your self-confidence, self-esteem, and overall well-being.

In the professional realm, social skills are highly valued and sought after by employers. They contribute to successful teamwork, leadership, and collaboration. 

Strong social skills enable you to build professional networks, communicate effectively with your colleagues and clients, and navigate workplace dynamics. Also, these skills are essential for presenting yourself confidently and persuasively, they aid in your self-advocacy at the workplace. All this can leave a positive impression on your peers and seniors and help you in advancing your career.

3 Benefits of developing social skills

Developing social skills offers numerous benefits. Here are 3 important benefits of building social skills in your everyday life: 

1. You maintain relationships better 

With the right social skills, you can establish and maintain lifelong relationships. Strong social skills enable you to connect with others on a deeper level, building trust, understanding, and mutual respect. This leads to stronger friendships, better romantic relationships, and more harmonious interactions with your colleagues and acquaintances.

2. You grow with personal and professional success 

In the workplace, good communication and teamwork skills are highly valued. They promote effective collaboration and help you resolve conflicts. This inevitably leads to a more productive and positive work environment. 

Outside of work, social skills can open doors to new opportunities, expand your networks, and enhance your social presence. 

3. You have better mental health and emotional well-being. 

Social skills enable you to navigate social situations with confidence, reducing anxiety and stress. They teach you to be more empathetic and understanding, which allows you to connect with others on a deeper level and build a strong support system. 

Ultimately, developing social skills also leads to increased self-esteem, improved self-awareness, and overall personal growth.

Why are Social Skills Important in Adults? 

While social skills are often associated with childhood development, they continue to evolve throughout your lives. As an adult, you can actively work on improving your social skills through various activities and practices. This is how you can enhance your interpersonal relationships, advance your career, and lead to more fulfilling lives.

social skill activities

Contrary to popular belief, social skills can be developed and improved at any age, including adulthood. 

While socialization plays a significant role in developing these skills during childhood and adolescence, adults can also enhance their social abilities through intentional practice and engagement in various activities. 

Whether it’s in personal or professional settings, adults can benefit greatly from actively working on their social skills.

Recognizing the importance of social skills, adults can take proactive steps to develop and refine their social skills.

You can do this by engaging in specific activities that provide opportunities for practice, reflection, and growth, ultimately leading to stronger social connections and improved overall well-being.

What is the Importance of Social Skills in Your Personal and Professional Life? 

Social skills are vital in both personal and professional settings. In your personal lives, they enable you to form meaningful connections and build strong relationships. Whether it’s making friends , finding a romantic partner, or maintaining a healthy family dynamic , social skills play a crucial role in all these aspects of your life. 

In the professional world, social skills are highly valued by leaders and can greatly impact your career success. Effective communication, teamwork, and conflict-resolution skills are essential for collaboration and productivity in the workplace . Networking and building professional relationships can also lead to career advancements and new opportunities.

Overall, social skills are a valuable asset in all aspects of life. They contribute to your happiness and well-being, help you navigate social situations with ease, and lead to personal and professional growth.

68 Social Skill Activities You Can Practice 

Now that we have understood the importance of social skills, let’s explore some activities that can help you to develop and enhance these skills. 

The following activities are designed to target different aspects of your social skills and help you to improve them.

3 Icebreaker activities for building social connections

Icebreaker activities are a great way to break down barriers and initiate conversations in a comfortable and relaxed setting. They help you to create a sense of camaraderie and build a foundation for further social interactions. Some popular icebreaker activities include:

1. Two Truths and a Lie: Each person shares two true statements and one false statement about themselves. The group tries to guess which statement is the lie, sparking conversations and laughter.

2. Human Bingo: Participants are given bingo cards with different characteristics or experiences (e.g., “Has traveled to another country” or “Plays a musical instrument”). They must find people in the group who match each characteristic. The goal is to encourage interaction and discovery.

3. Name and Fact: Here participants introduce themselves by stating their name and sharing an interesting fact about themselves. This helps in breaking the ice and sparking conversations based on shared interests or experiences.

These icebreaker activities create a relaxed and engaging environment, encouraging participants to interact, connect, and lay the foundation for further social skill development.

4 Communication activities for improving verbal and nonverbal skills

Good communication skills are essential for effective social interactions. These communication activities are designed to enhance both your verbal and nonverbal communication skills, promoting effective expression and understanding among people.

These activities encourage active listening, clear articulation, and nonverbal cues recognition. Here are a few communication activity ideas:

1. Active Listening Pairs: Participants pair up and take turns sharing a personal story. The listener practices active listening skills by summarizing and reflecting on what they heard. This activity promotes empathy, understanding, and effective communication.

2. Mirror Mirror: Participants work in pairs, taking turns leading and following each other’s movements. The leader performs a series of simple actions, and the follower mirrors those actions. This activity enhances nonverbal communication and the ability to interpret and respond to nonverbal cues.

3. Picture Perfect: Participants are divided into groups and given a set of pictures. Each group selects one picture and describes it to the other groups without showing it. The other groups must recreate the picture based solely on the description, highlighting the importance of clear and precise verbal communication.

4. Charades: This classic game requires participants to use body language and gestures to communicate words or phrases without speaking. It encourages nonverbal communication and creativity.

These communication activities provide you the opportunities to practice and improve your communication skills, building better understanding and connection with others.

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3 emotional intelligence activities for understanding and managing emotions.

Emotional intelligence is your ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions, as well as those of others. These activities help you to develop emotional intelligence:

1. Emotion Charades: Participants act out different emotions without using words, challenging others to guess the emotion being portrayed. This activity enhances emotional recognition and empathy.

2. Journaling: Encourage the participants to journal their thoughts and emotions regularly. This will build a habit of reflecting on your feelings and developing self-awareness and emotional management skills.

3. Empathy Circle: In this game, participants form a circle and take turns sharing a personal experience. The rest of the group listens actively and then reflects on what they heard, focusing on understanding and empathizing with the speaker’s emotions.

These emotional intelligence activities will enhance your ability to understand and manage your own emotions while fostering empathy and connection with others.

5 Conflict resolution activities for dealing with interpersonal challenges

Conflict resolution skills are essential for maintaining healthy relationships. These activities focus on resolving conflicts constructively and respectfully:

1. Role Play Mediation: Participants engage in role-play scenarios where they act as mediators, helping resolve conflicts between two people. This activity allows participants to practice active listening, empathy, and effective communication skills in a controlled setting.

2. Win-Win Negotiation: Participants are divided into pairs and given a scenario that involves a potential conflict. Each participant must advocate for their interests while seeking a win-win solution through negotiation and compromise. This activity promotes problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.

3. Group Problem-Solving: Participants work together in small groups to solve a complex problem or complete a challenging task. This activity encourages cooperation, brainstorming, and finding common ground to reach a shared goal.

4. Role Play: Participants act out scenarios that involve conflicts and practice resolving them through active listening, understanding different perspectives, and finding mutually beneficial solutions.

5. The Circle of Perspectives: Participants sit in a circle and take turns sharing their thoughts and perspectives on a particular topic or issue. This activity promotes empathy and understanding of diverse viewpoints.

These conflict resolution activities will equip you with the skills necessary to manage conflicts effectively, maintaining healthier relationships and a more positive social environment. 

5 Team building activities for practicing collaboration and cooperation

Team building activities promote effective collaboration and cooperation. They encourage you to work together towards a common goal and build trust, communication, and synergy within a group. Here are a few team-building activity ideas:

1. Trust Fall: Participants form pairs, with one person falling backward and the other catching them. This activity builds trust and fosters a sense of reliance on one another.

2. Escape Room: Participants work together to solve puzzles and find clues to escape a locked room within a time limit. This activity enhances teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.

3. Minefield: Participants are blindfolded and placed in pairs. One person is blindfolded and must navigate through a “minefield” (a designated area with obstacles) guided only by the verbal instructions of their partner. This activity promotes trust, clear communication, and teamwork.

4. Escape Room: Participants are locked in a themed room. They must work together to solve puzzles, find clues, and escape within a time limit. This activity requires effective communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills under pressure.

5. Tower Building: Participants are divided into teams and given limited supplies (e.g., straws, tape, paper) to build the tallest freestanding tower. This activity encourages teamwork, creativity, and effective resource allocation.

These team-building activities promote collaboration, trust, and effective communication, allowing individuals to develop strong teamwork skills.

4 Networking activities for expanding social circles

Networking activities are designed to expand your social circles and build professional relationships. They establish professional connections and enhance their networking skills. These activities encourage introductions, conversations, and relationship-building in various settings. Here are a few networking activity ideas:

1. Networking Bingo: Create a bingo sheet with different networking objectives (e.g., “Exchange business cards,” “Have a conversation with someone from a different industry”). Participants mingle and try to achieve each objective, striking it off on their bingo sheet as they go.

2. Speed Networking: Participants form pairs and have a designated time to introduce themselves, exchange information, and discuss their professional interests. After the time is up, participants rotate and repeat the process with a new partner. This activity promotes efficient networking and conversation skills.

3. Industry Panel Discussion: Organize a panel discussion with professionals from a specific industry. Participants have the opportunity to ask questions, share insights, and connect with panelists and fellow attendees. This activity facilitates networking, knowledge sharing, and relationship-building within a professional context.

4. Professional Development Events: Attend conferences, workshops, or seminars related to your field of interest. Engage with other professionals and exchange ideas, fostering new connections and opportunities.

These networking activities create opportunities for individuals to expand their professional networks, gain industry insights, and enhance their networking skills.

5 Empathy-building activities for enhancing understanding and compassion

Empathy is your ability to understand and share the feelings of others. These empathy-building activities aim to understand and relate to the emotions and experiences of others. These activities promote perspective-taking, active listening, and compassion. Here are a few empathy-building activity ideas:

1. The Empathy Walk: Participants pair up and one person blindfolds themselves while the other guides them through a designated route. The blindfolded person relies on the instructions and guidance of their partner, experiencing trust and empathy for their perspective.

2. Life Maps: Participants create visual representations of their life journeys, highlighting significant events and experiences. They then share their life maps with others, promoting understanding, empathy, and connection.

3. Role Reversal: Participants pair up and take turns role-playing a situation or scenario from each other’s perspectives. This activity encourages you to see things from different points of view, fostering empathy and understanding.

4. Storytelling Circle: Participants take turns sharing personal stories that evoke emotions. The group actively listens and provides support, builds empathy, and understanding.

5. Random Acts of Kindness: Encourage participants to perform small acts of kindness for others, such as buying a coffee for a stranger or volunteering at a local charity. These acts promote empathy and compassion.

These empathy-building activities enhance individuals’ ability to understand and relate to others’ experiences, fostering compassion, and building stronger connections.

4 Problem-solving activities for improving decision-making skills

Problem-solving skills are essential for navigating social situations effectively. They improve your ability to analyze situations, identify solutions, and make effective decisions. 

Problem-solving activities promote critical thinking , creativity, and collaboration. Here are a few problem-solving activity ideas to help:

1. Brainstorming Session: Participants come together to generate a list of ideas or solutions for a specific problem or challenge. This activity encourages creative thinking, collaboration, and open-mindedness.

2. The Marshmallow Challenge: Participants are divided into teams and given a set of materials (e.g., spaghetti, tape, string) to build the tallest freestanding structure that can support a marshmallow on top. This activity promotes teamwork, problem-solving, strategic thinking, collaboration, and adaptability.

3. Case Study Analysis: Participants are presented with a hypothetical case study or real-life scenario that requires analysis and decision-making. They work individually or in groups to identify the problem, analyze the available information, and propose solutions.

4. Scavenger Hunt: Organize a scavenger hunt where participants work together to solve riddles and find hidden objects. This activity encourages problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

These problem-solving activities develop individuals’ critical thinking, decision-making, and creativity, enabling them to approach challenges with confidence and effectiveness.

4 Active listening activities for better communication and understanding

Active listening is a crucial component of effective communication.  Active listening activities focus on enhancing your listening skills, promoting better understanding, and strong communication. These activities encourage attentive listening, clarification, and empathy. Here are a few active listening activity ideas for you:

1. Reflective Listening Pairs: Participants pair up and take turns sharing a personal story or experience. The listener practices reflective listening by summarizing and reflecting on what they heard, focusing on understanding and empathy.

2. Group Listening Circle: Participants form a circle, and one person shares a personal story or experience. The rest of the group listens attentively without interrupting or providing feedback. This activity promotes active listening and empathy.

3. Listening Walk: Participants go for a walk in pairs or small groups, focusing on listening to the sounds around them. After the walk, they discuss what they heard and how it made them feel. This activity encourages mindful listening and awareness.

4. Story Retelling: One person shares a story, and the listener must retell the story accurately. This activity promotes attentive listening and comprehension.

These active listening activities enhance your ability to listen attentively, understand others’ perspectives, and communicate effectively.

4 Role-playing activities for practicing social interactions

Role-playing activities provide a safe space to practice and improve social interactions through simulated scenarios. Here are a few role-playing activity ideas:

1. Job Interview Role Play: Participants pair up and take turns playing the role of the interviewer and the interviewee in a simulated job interview. This activity allows you to practice answering questions, and conveying your skills and experience while being confident and showcasing professionalism.

2. Conflict Resolution Role Play: Participants engage in role-play scenarios where they act out various conflict situations and practice resolving them through effective communication and problem-solving. This activity enhances conflict resolution skills and empathy.

3. Customer Service Role Play: Participants take turns playing the role of a customer and a customer service representative in simulated scenarios.

4. Social Scenarios: Create various social scenarios, such as meeting new people or resolving conflicts, and have participants act them out. This activity allows for practice and improvement of social skills.

These activities promote effective communication, empathy, and problem-solving. 

2 Body language activities for improving nonverbal communication

Nonverbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions, plays a significant role in social interactions. These activities aim to improve nonverbal communication skills:

1. Mirroring: Participants pair up and take turns mirroring each other’s body language, gestures, and facial expressions. This activity enhances your observation and nonverbal communication skills.

2. Charades with a Twist: Participants play charades, but instead of using only their bodies, they incorporate facial expressions and subtle body language cues. This activity encourages participants to be more aware of their nonverbal communication.

While these activities may feel controlling, they improve your non-verbal communication by making you more mindful of your movements.  

2 Self-Confidence activities for overcoming social anxiety

Self-confidence is essential for successful social interactions. Here are some activities to help you focus on building self-confidence:

1. Positive Affirmations: Participants create a list of positive affirmations or mindset quotes and repeat them daily. This activity helps you to reframe negative self-talk and promotes self-confidence.

2. Public Speaking Club: Join a public speaking club or organization where you can practice speaking in front of others in a supportive environment. This activity builds confidence and improves public speaking skills.

Self-confidence is the root of every interaction, whether personal or professional. These activities will take you out of your comfort zone and make you more confident every time you practice them. 

2 Public speaking activities for improving presentation skills

Public speaking skills are valuable in both personal and professional settings. These activities help improve presentation skills:

1. Impromptu Speeches: Give participants random topics and a short amount of time to prepare a speech. This activity enhances quick thinking, organization, and delivery skills.

2. Presentation Critique: Participants deliver short presentations, and the group provides constructive feedback on content, delivery, and body language. This activity helps improve presentation skills through peer evaluation.

I remember doing both these activities during college and they are a big help for you to step out of your comfort zone and build on your speaking skills too. 

2 Cultural awareness activities for promoting inclusivity and diversity

Cultural awareness promotes inclusivity and understanding of diverse backgrounds. These activities aim to develop cultural awareness:

1. Cultural Potluck: Participants bring dishes from their respective cultures to share with the group. This activity encourages conversations about different traditions, customs, and cuisines.

2. Cultural Competency Training: Attend workshops or training sessions that focus on cultural competency, diversity, and inclusion. These activities provide insights into different cultures and foster understanding.

These are fun activities that give you the chance to get acquainted with other cultures and traditions and be more open to accepting them. 

2 Time management activities for balancing social engagements

Balancing social engagements can be challenging. Hence it becomes important to improve your time management skills . These activities will help do exactly that:

1. Time Tracking: You can track your daily activities and notice how much time you spend on each. This activity will promote self-awareness and help you to identify areas where your time can be better managed.

2. Prioritization Exercise: You can create a list of tasks or social engagements and prioritize them based on importance and urgency . This activity enhances decision-making and time-management skills.

These activities will promote time management in your daily life and will also help you to understand the value of time. 

2 Mindfulness activities for being present in social interactions

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment . These activities promote mindfulness in social interactions:

1. Mindful Conversations: Encourage yourself to engage in mindful conversations , focusing on being fully present and actively listening without judgment.

2. Mindful Eating: Organize a mindful eating activity where everyone can savor each bite of food, paying attention to taste, texture, and the experience of eating together.

As you run behind your goals, pausing for a while and being mindful of your thoughts and movements will only help you appreciate your progress more. Thus, make sure you practice mindful listening and mindful eating a little more in your daily life. 

2 Stress management activities for navigating social situations

If excessive stress has become a part of your life, stress management should be given its space too. Stress management skills are crucial for navigating social situations effectively. These activities help manage stress:

1. Breathing Exercises: Teach participants deep breathing exercises to use in stressful situations. This activity promotes relaxation and helps manage anxiety.

2. Guided Meditation: Lead participants through a guided meditation focused on releasing stress and cultivating a calm mindset. This activity enhances relaxation and stress management skills.

These stress management activities will help you to navigate stressful situations with grace and ease. 

2 Assertiveness activities for expressing thoughts and feelings effectively

Assertiveness is the ability to express thoughts, feelings, and needs clearly and respectfully. These activities focus on developing your assertiveness:

1. Role-playing Assertiveness: Participants act out scenarios where they practice assertive communication, expressing their thoughts and feelings without holding back.

2. Assertiveness Journal: Encourage participants to keep an assertiveness journal where they reflect on assertive interactions they had and areas for improvement.

These activities will make you more assertive and bold with your perspectives and decision-making. 

2 Empowerment activities for building self-esteem

Building self-esteem is essential for healthy social interactions. These activities promote self-esteem:

1. Strengths and Achievements: Have participants create a list of their strengths and past achievements. This activity helps boost self-esteem and builds a positive self-image .

2. Self-Compliments: Encourage participants to give themselves daily compliments or write self-affirmations. This activity promotes self-love and self-acceptance.

These empowerment activities make you feel more accomplished. They develop self-compassion as you go through the challenges of your daily life. 

2 Reflection activities for self-awareness and personal growth

Reflection activities increase your self-awareness and personal growth. These activities promote introspection and self-reflection:

1. Journal Prompts: Provide participants with thought-provoking journal prompts, such as “What are my strengths and weaknesses in social situations?” or “How do I handle conflicts?” This activity encourages self-reflection and self-awareness. Here are +200 Journal Prompts to help you.

2. Personal Development Plan: Guide participants in creating a personal development plan, outlining their goals for improving social skills and the steps they will take to achieve them.

These self-reflection activities will contribute to your sense of self and belonging as you sit down to understand yourself better. They also show you aspects of your personality that might have been hidden all along. 

2 Social skill activities for the workplace

Social skills are critical for success in the workplace. While all the activities mentioned in this blog can be adopted in any workplace, here are two activities designed specifically to focus on developing social skills in professional settings:

1. Networking Events: Attend industry-specific networking events and practice introducing yourself, engaging in conversations, and exchanging contact information.

2. Collaborative Projects: Engage in collaborative projects with colleagues, actively practicing teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Practicing social skills in the workplace helps you by getting you out of the awkwardness and promoting better interactions with your colleagues. 

2 Social skill activities for relationships and dating

Social skills are essential for building and maintaining healthy romantic relationships . These activities focus on developing social skills for relationships and dating:

1. Couples Game Night: Organize a game night for couples to encourage communication, teamwork, and bonding between them.

2. Active Listening Dates: Plan dates with your partner where the focus is on active listening and sharing experiences, promoting understanding and connection.

There is nothing like “knowing it all” when it comes to love and romantic relationships. And if you wish to build a successful relationship , you can never get enough of knowing your partner better in different ways. 

2 Social skill activities for community involvement

Engaging in community activities promotes social skills and connections. These activities focus on community involvement:

1. Volunteer Work: Participate in volunteer activities that align with your interests, allowing you to meet new people and contribute to your community.

2. Community Events: Attend local events and engage in conversations with fellow attendees, to establish better connections and community engagement.

Community involvement brings you closer to your neighborhood and community. It promotes peace and harmony among people who share common interests and preferences. 

Developing and enhancing social skills is an ongoing process that can greatly impact our personal and professional lives.

By engaging in these social skill activities you can different skills, one at a time, and build your personality with consistent efforts.

I hope you enjoyed reading about social skills and how you can develop them in yourself as an adult.

If you loved what you read, don’t forget to share this with someone who can derive value from it.

Also, I would love to know which is your favorite social skill activity from the list.

Mine is definitely journaling, which is yours?

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Eat, Sleep, Wander

5 Examples of Problem Solving Scenarios + ROLE PLAY SCRIPTS

Problem-solving is an essential skill in our daily lives. It enables us to analyze situations, identify challenges, and find suitable solutions. In this article, we’ll explore five real-life problem-solving scenarios from various areas, including business, education, and personal growth. By understanding these examples, you can develop your problem-solving abilities and effectively tackle challenges in your life.

Examples of Problem Solving Scenarios

Examples of Problem Solving Scenarios

Improving Customer Service Scenario:

A retail store is experiencing a decline in customer satisfaction, with clients complaining about slow service and unhelpful staff.

Solution : The store manager assembles a team to analyze customer feedback, identify key issues, and propose solutions. They implement a new training program focused on customer service skills, streamline the checkout process, and introduce an incentive system to motivate employees. As a result, customer satisfaction improves, and the store’s reputation is restored.

Enhancing Learning Outcomes Scenario:

A high school teacher notices that her students struggle with understanding complex concepts in her science class, leading to poor performance on tests.

Solution : The teacher reevaluates her teaching methods and incorporates active learning strategies, such as group discussions, hands-on activities, and real-world examples, to make the material more engaging and relatable. She also offers additional support sessions and resources for students who need extra help. Consequently, students’ understanding improves, and test scores increase.

Overcoming Procrastination Scenario:

An individual consistently procrastinates, leading to increased stress and reduced productivity.

Solution : The person identifies the root cause of their procrastination, such as fear of failure or lack of motivation. They establish clear goals and deadlines, break tasks into manageable steps, and use time management tools, like the Pomodoro Technique , to stay focused. By consistently applying these strategies, they successfully overcome procrastination and enhance their productivity.

Reducing Patient Wait Times Scenario:

A medical clinic has long wait times, leading to patient dissatisfaction and overworked staff.

Solution : The clinic’s management team conducts a thorough analysis of the appointment scheduling process and identifies bottlenecks. They implement a new appointment system, hire additional staff, and optimize the workflow to reduce wait times. As a result, patient satisfaction increases, and staff stress levels decrease.

Reducing Plastic Waste Scenario:

A local community is struggling with an excessive amount of plastic waste, causing environmental pollution and health concerns.

Solution : Community leaders organize a task force to address the issue. They implement a recycling program, educate residents about the environmental impact of plastic waste, and collaborate with local businesses to promote the use of eco-friendly packaging alternatives. These actions lead to a significant reduction in plastic waste and a cleaner, healthier community.

Conclusion : These five examples of problem-solving scenarios demonstrate how effective problem-solving strategies can lead to successful outcomes in various aspects of life. By learning from these scenarios, you can develop your problem-solving skills and become better equipped to face challenges in your personal and professional life. Remember to analyze situations carefully, identify the root causes, and implement solutions that address these issues for optimal results.

  • See also: 4 Medical Role Play Scenarios: Prepare for the Real Thing
  • See also: 3 Financial Advisor Role Play Scenarios: Practice Your Skills!
  • See also: 3 Insurance Role Play Examples
  • See also: 3 Workplace Scenarios for Role Play

Role Play: Improving Customer Service in a Retail Store

Objective : To practice effective problem-solving and communication skills in a retail setting by addressing customer service issues and finding solutions to improve customer satisfaction.

Scenario : A retail store is experiencing a decline in customer satisfaction, with clients complaining about slow service and unhelpful staff.

Characters :

  • Store Manager
  • Sales Associate
  • Assistant Manager

Role Play Script:

Scene 1 : Store Manager’s Office Store Manager: (Addressing the Assistant Manager and Sales Associate) I’ve noticed that our customer satisfaction has been declining lately. We’ve received several complaints about slow service and unhelpful staff. We need to address these issues immediately. Any suggestions?

Sales Associate : I’ve observed that the checkout process can be quite slow, especially during peak hours. Maybe we can improve our system to make it more efficient?

Assistant Manager : I agree. We could also implement a new training program for our staff, focusing on customer service skills and techniques.

Scene 2 : Staff Training Session Store Manager: (Addressing the entire staff) We’re implementing a new training program to improve our customer service. This program will cover effective communication, problem-solving, and time management skills. We’ll also introduce an incentive system to reward those who provide exceptional service.

Scene 3 : Retail Floor Customer: (Approaching the Sales Associate) Excuse me, I can’t find the product I’m looking for. Can you help me?

Sales Associate : (Smiling) Of course! I’d be happy to help. What product are you looking for?

Customer : I need a specific brand of shampoo, but I can’t find it on the shelves.

Sales Associate : Let me check our inventory system to see if we have it in stock. (Checks inventory) I’m sorry, but it seems we’re currently out of stock. However, we’re expecting a new shipment within two days. I can take your contact information and let you know as soon as it arrives.

Customer : That would be great! Thank you for your help.

Scene 4 : Store Manager’s Office Assistant Manager: (Reporting to the Store Manager) Since we implemented the new training program and made changes to the checkout process, we’ve seen a significant improvement in customer satisfaction.

Store Manager : That’s excellent news! Let’s continue to monitor our progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure we maintain this positive trend.

More Examples of Problem Solving Scenarios on the next page…

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Solutions for Social Emotional Learning & Executive Functioning

Teaching Social Problem-Solving with a Free Activity

February 3, 2018 by pathway2success 5 Comments

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How to Teach Social Problem Solving with a Free Activity Solving

Kids and young adults need to be able to problem-solve on their own. Every day, kids are faced with a huge number of social situations and challenges. Whether they are just having a conversation with a peer, working with a group on a project, or dealing with an ethical dilemma, kids must use their social skills and knowledge to help them navigate tough situations. Ideally, we want kids to make positive choices entirely on their own. Of course, we know that kids don’t start off that way. They need to learn how to collaborate, communicate, cooperate, negotiate, and self-advocate.

Social problem solving skills are critical skills to learn for kids with autism, ADHD, and other social challenges. Of course, all kids and young adults benefit from these skills. They fit perfectly into a morning meeting discussion or advisory periods for older kids. Not only are these skills that kids will use in your classroom, but throughout their entire lives. They are well worth the time to teach!

Here are 5 steps to help kids learn social problem solving skills:

1. Teach kids to communicate their feelings. Being able to openly and respectfully share emotions is a foundational element to social problem solving. Teaching I statements can be a simple and effective way to kids to share their feelings. With an I statement, kids will state, “I feel ______ when _____.” The whole idea is that this type of statement allows someone to share how their feeling without targeting or blaming anyone else. Helping kids to communicate their emotions can solve many social problems from the start and encourages positive self-expression.

2. Discuss and model empathy. In order for kids to really grasp problem-solving, they need to learn how to think about the feelings of others. Literature is a great way teach and practice empathy! Talk about the feelings of characters within texts you are reading, really highlighting how they might feel in situations and why. Ask questions like, “How might they feel? Why do you think they felt that way? Would you feel the same in that situation? Why or why not?” to help teach emerging empathy skills. You can also make up your own situations and have kids share responses, too.

Developing Empathy

3. Model problem-solving skills. When a problem arises, discuss it and share some solutions how you might go forward to fix it. For example, you might say, “I was really expecting to give the class this math assignment today but I just found out we have an assembly. This wasn’t in my plans. I could try to give part of it now or I could hold off and give the assignment tomorrow instead. It’s not perfect, but I think I’ll wait that way we can go at the pace we need to.” This type of think-aloud models the type of thinking that kids should be using when a problem comes up.

4. Use social scenarios to practice. Give a scenario and have kids consider how that person might feel in that situation. Discuss options for what that person might do to solve the problem, possible consequences for their choices, and what the best decision might be. Kids can consider themselves social detectives by using the clues and what they know about social rules to help them figure out the solution. These are especially fun in small groups to have kids discuss collaboratively. Use these free social problem solving cards to start your kids off practicing!

Social Problem Solving Task Cards

5. Allow kids to figure it out. Don’t come to the rescue when a child or young adult has a problem. As long as it’s not a serious issue, give them time to think about it and use their problem-solving skills on their own. Of course, it’s much easier to have an adult solve all the problems but that doesn’t teach the necessary skills. When a child comes to you asking for your help with a social problem, encourage them to think about it for five minutes before coming back to you. By that point, they might have already figured out possible solutions and ideas and might not even need you anymore.

If you are interested in helping your kids learn social problem solving skills right away, consider trying out these Social Problem Solving Task Cards . They highlight real social scenarios and situations that kids can discuss. The scenarios include a variety of locations, such as in classrooms, with family, with friends, at recess, and at lunch. This set is targeted for elementary-age learners.

Social Scenario Problem Solving Task Cards

Of course, older kids need social problem solving skills, too! If you work with older kids, you will love these Social Problem Solving Task Cards for Middle and High School Kids. These situations target age-appropriate issues that come up in classes, with friends, with family, in the hallway, in the cafeteria, and with online and texting.

Social Problem Solving Task Cards for Middle and High School

Remember that teaching social problem skills does take a little bit of planning and effort, but it will be well worth the time! Kids will use these skills to help them make social decisions in their everyday lives now and in the future!

Social Problem Solving with a Free Activity

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free social problem solving scenarios for adults

February 22, 2018 at 12:03 am

Thank you for sharing>

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March 3, 2018 at 8:59 am

Good thought ful

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March 20, 2018 at 9:24 pm

They are not free

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March 21, 2018 at 8:58 am

They are! Here is the link (it’s listed under number 4): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Free-Social-Problem-Solving-Task-Cards-2026178 I also have a paid version with a bunch more cards (for both elementary and older kids), but that will give you the freebie. Enjoy!

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July 15, 2018 at 3:41 am

Awesome way to teach the skill of social problem solving.

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14 Best Team Building Problem Solving Group Activities For 2024

The best teams see solutions where others see problems. A great company culture is built around a collaborative spirit and the type of unity it takes to find answers to the big business questions.

So how can you get team members working together?

How can you develop a mentality that will help them overcome obstacles they have yet to encounter?

One of the best ways to improve your teams’ problem solving skills is through team building problem solving activities .

“86% of employees and executives cite lack of collaboration or ineffective communication for workplace failures.” — Bit.AI

These activities can simulate true-to-life scenarios they’ll find themselves in, or the scenarios can call on your employees or coworkers to dig deep and get creative in a more general sense.

The truth is, on a day-to-day basis, you have to prepare for the unexpected. It just happens that team building activities help with that, but are so fun that they don’t have to feel like work ( consider how you don’t even feel like you’re working out when you’re playing your favorite sport or doing an exercise you actually enjoy! )

Team Building Problem Solving Group Activities

What are the benefits of group problem-solving activities?

The benefits of group problem-solving activities for team building include:

  • Better communication
  • Improved collaboration and teamwork
  • More flexible thinking
  • Faster problem-solving
  • Better proactivity and decision making

Without further ado, check out this list of the 14 best team-building problem-solving group activities for 2024!

Page Contents (Click To Jump)

Popular Problem Solving Activities

1. virtual team challenge.

Virtual Team Challenges are popular problem-solving activities that involve a group of people working together to solve an issue. The challenge generally involves members of the team brainstorming, discussing, and creating solutions for a given problem.

Participants work both individually and collaboratively to come up with ideas and strategies that will help them reach their goals.

Why this is a fun problem-solving activity: Participants can interact and communicate with each other in a virtual environment while simultaneously engaging with the problem-solving activities. This makes it an enjoyable experience that allows people to use their creative thinking skills, build team spirit, and gain valuable insights into the issue at hand.

Problem-solving activities such as Virtual Team Challenges offer a great way for teams to come together, collaborate, and develop creative solutions to complex problems.

2. Problem-Solving Templates

Problem-Solving Templates are popular problem-solving activities that involve a group of people working together to solve an issue. The challenge generally involves members of the team utilizing pre-made templates and creating solutions for a given problem with the help of visual aids.

This activity is great for teams that need assistance in getting started on their problem-solving journey.

Why this is a fun problem-solving activity: Problem-Solving Templates offer teams an easy and stress-free way to get the creative juices flowing. The visual aids that come with the templates help team members better understand the issue at hand and easily come up with solutions together.

This activity is great for teams that need assistance in getting started on their problem-solving journey, as it provides an easy and stress-free way to get the creative juices flowing.

Problem Solving Group Activities & Games For Team Building

3. coworker feud, “it’s all fun and games”.

Coworker Feud is a twist on the classic Family Feud game show! This multiple rapid round game keeps the action flowing and the questions going. You can choose from a variety of customizations, including picking the teams yourself, randomized teams, custom themes, and custom rounds.

Best for: Hybrid teams

Why this is an effective problem solving group activity: Coworker Feud comes with digital game materials, a digital buzzer, an expert host, and a zoom link to get the participants ready for action! Teams compete with each other to correctly answer the survey questions. At the end of the game, the team with the most competitive answers is declared the winner of the Feud.

How to get started:

  • Sign up for Coworker Feud
  • Break into teams of 4 to 10 people
  • Get the competitive juices flowing and let the games begin!

Learn more here: Coworker Feud

4. Crack The Case

“who’s a bad mamma jamma”.

Crack The Case is a classic WhoDoneIt game that forces employees to depend on their collective wit to stop a deadly murderer dead in his tracks! Remote employees and office commuters can join forces to end this crime spree.

Best for: Remote teams

Why this is an effective problem solving group activity: The Virtual Clue Murder Mystery is an online problem solving activity that uses a proprietary videoconferencing platform to offer the chance for employees and coworkers to study case files, analyze clues, and race to find the motive, the method, and the individual behind the murder of Neil Davidson.

  • Get a custom quote here
  • Download the app
  • Let the mystery-solving collaboration begin!

Learn more here: Crack The Case

5. Catch Meme If You Can

“can’t touch this”.

Purposefully created to enhance leadership skills and team bonding , Catch Meme If You Can is a hybrid between a scavenger hunt and an escape room . Teammates join together to search for clues, solve riddles, and get out — just in time!

Best for: Small teams

Why this is an effective problem solving group activity: Catch Meme If You Can is an adventure with a backstory. Each team has to submit their answer to the puzzle in order to continue to the next part of the sequence. May the best team escape!

  • The teams will be given instructions and the full storyline
  • Teams will be split into a handful of people each
  • The moderator will kick off the action!

Learn more here: Catch Meme If You Can

6. Puzzle Games

“just something to puzzle over”.

Puzzle Games is the fresh trivia game to test your employees and blow their minds with puzzles, jokes , and fun facts!

Best for: In-person teams

Why this is an effective problem solving group activity: Eight mini brain teaser and trivia style games include word puzzles, name that nonsense, name that tune, and much more. Plus, the points each team earns will go towards planting trees in the precious ecosystems and forests of Uganda

  • Get a free consultation for your team
  • Get a custom designed invitation for your members
  • Use the game link
  • Dedicated support will help your team enjoy Puzzle Games to the fullest!

Learn more here: Puzzle Games

7. Virtual Code Break

“for virtual teams”.

Virtual Code Break is a virtual team building activity designed for remote participants around the globe. Using a smart video conferencing solution, virtual teams compete against each other to complete challenges, answer trivia questions, and solve brain-busters!

Why this is an effective problem solving group activity: Virtual Code Break can be played by groups as small as 4 people all the way up to more than 1,000 people at once. However, every team will improve their communication and problem-solving skills as they race against the clock and depend on each other’s strengths to win!

  • Reach out for a free consultation to align the needs of your team
  • An event facilitator will be assigned to handle all of the set-up and logistics
  • They will also provide you with logins and a play-by-play of what to expect
  • Sign into the Outback video conferencing platform and join your pre-assigned team
  • Lastly, let the games begin!

Learn more here: Virtual Code Break

8. Stranded

“survivor: office edition”.

Stranded is the perfect scenario-based problem solving group activity. The doors of the office are locked and obviously your team can’t just knock them down or break the windows.

Why this is an effective problem solving group activity: Your team has less than half an hour to choose 10 items around the office that will help them survive. They then rank the items in order of importance. It’s a bit like the classic game of being lost at sea without a lifeboat.

  • Get everyone together in the office
  • Lock the doors
  • Let them start working together to plan their survival

Learn more here: Stranded

9. Letting Go Game

“for conscious healing”.

The Letting Go Game is a game of meditation and mindfulness training for helping teammates thrive under pressure and reduce stress in the process. The tasks of the Letting Go Game boost resiliency, attentiveness, and collaboration.

Why this is an effective problem solving group activity: Expert-guided activities and awareness exercises encourage team members to think altruistically and demonstrate acts of kindness. Between yoga, face painting, and fun photography, your employees or coworkers will have more than enough to keep them laughing and growing together with this mindfulness activity!

  • Reach out for a free consultation
  • A guide will then help lead the exercises
  • Let the funny videos, pictures, and playing begin!

Learn more here: Letting Go Game

10. Wild Goose Chase

“city time”.

Wild Goose Chase is the creative problem solving activity that will take teams all around your city and bring them together as a group! This scavenger hunt works for teams as small as 10 up to groups of over 5000 people.

Best for: Large teams

Why this is an effective group problem solving activity: As employees and group members are coming back to the office, there are going to be times that they’re itching to get outside. Wild Goose Chase is the perfect excuse to satisfy the desire to go out-of-office every now and then. Plus, having things to look at and see around the city will get employees talking in ways they never have before.

  • Download the Outback app to access the Wild Goose Chase
  • Take photos and videos from around the city
  • The most successful team at completing challenges on time is the champ!

Learn more here: Wild Goose Chase

11. Human Knot

“for a knotty good time”.

Human-knot

The Human Knot is one of the best icebreaker team building activities! In fact, there’s a decent chance you played it in grade school. It’s fun, silly, and best of all — free!

Why this is an effective group problem solving activity: Participants start in a circle and connect hands with two other people in the group to form a human knot. The team then has to work together and focus on clear communication to unravel the human knot by maneuvering their way out of this hands-on conundrum. But there’s a catch — they can’t let go of each other’s hands in this team building exercise.

  • Form a circle
  • Tell each person to grab a random hand until all hands are holding another
  • They can’t hold anyone’s hand who is directly next to them
  • Now they have to get to untangling
  • If the chain breaks before everyone is untangled, they have to start over again

Learn more here: Human Knot

12. What Would You Do?

“because it’s fun to imagine”.

Team-building-activity

What Would You Do? Is the hypothetical question game that gets your team talking and brainstorming about what they’d do in a variety of fun, intriguing, and sometimes, whacky scenarios.

Best for: Distributed teams

Why this is an effective group problem solving activity: After employees or coworkers start talking about their What Would You Do? responses, they won’t be able to stop. That’s what makes this such an incredible team building activity . For example, you could ask questions like “If you could live forever, what would you do with your time?” or “If you never had to sleep, what would you do?”

  • In addition to hypothetical questions, you could also give teammates some optional answers to get them started
  • After that, let them do the talking — then they’ll be laughing and thinking and dreaming, too!

13. Crossing The River

“quite the conundrum”.

Crossing-the-river

Crossing The River is a river-crossing challenge with one correct answer. Your team gets five essential elements — a chicken, a fox, a rowboat, a woman, and a bag of corn. You see, the woman has a bit of a problem, you tell them. She has to get the fox, the bag of corn, and the chicken to the other side of the river as efficiently as possible.

Why this is an effective group problem solving activity: She has a rowboat, but it can only carry her and one other item at a time. She cannot leave the chicken and the fox alone — for obvious reasons. And she can’t leave the chicken with the corn because it will gobble it right up. So the question for your team is how does the woman get all five elements to the other side of the river safely in this fun activity?

  • Form teams of 2 to 5 people
  • Each team has to solve the imaginary riddle
  • Just make sure that each group understands that the rowboat can only carry one animal and one item at a time; the fox and chicken can’t be alone; and the bag of corn and the chicken cannot be left alone
  • Give the verbal instructions for getting everything over to the other side

14. End-Hunger Games

“philanthropic fun”.

Does anything bond people quite like acts of kindness and compassion? The End-Hunger Games will get your team to rally around solving the serious problem of hunger.

Best for: Medium-sized teams

Why this is an effective problem solving group activity: Teams join forces to complete challenges based around non-perishable food items in the End-Hunger Games. Groups can range in size from 25 to more than 2000 people, who will all work together to collect food for the local food bank.

  • Split into teams and compete to earn boxes and cans of non-perishable food
  • Each team attempts to build the most impressive food item construction
  • Donate all of the non-perishable foods to a local food bank

Learn more here: End-Hunger Games

People Also Ask These Questions About Team Building Problem Solving Group Activities

Q: what are some problem solving group activities.

  • A: Some problem solving group activities can include riddles, egg drop, reverse pyramid, tallest tower, trivia, and other moderator-led activities.

Q: What kind of skills do group problem solving activities & games improve?

  • A: Group problem solving activities and games improve collaboration, leadership, and communication skills.

Q: What are problem solving based team building activities & games?

  • A: Problem solving based team building activities and games are activities that challenge teams to work together in order to complete them.

Q: What are some fun free problem solving games for groups?

  • A: Some fun free problem solving games for groups are kinesthetic puzzles like the human knot game, which you can read more about in this article. You can also use all sorts of random items like whiteboards, straws, building blocks, sticky notes, blindfolds, rubber bands, and legos to invent a game that will get the whole team involved.

Q: How do I choose the most effective problem solving exercise for my team?

  • A: The most effective problem solving exercise for your team is one that will challenge them to be their best selves and expand their creative thinking.

Q: How do I know if my group problem solving activity was successful?

  • A: In the short-term, you’ll know if your group problem solving activity was successful because your team will bond over it; however, that should also translate to more productivity in the mid to long-term.

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COMMENTS

  1. 71+ Free Social Problem-Solving Scenarios

    Use the 71 social problem-solving scenarios to have your students get great experience practicing how to solve a social problem. Also, included are 6 blank scenarios. Then laminate them so you can use them over and over again. Therefore, create social problems that the student experiences and needs help solving.

  2. Social Skills Training for Adults: 10 Best Activities + PDF

    Prior to starting social skills training or activities, the therapist and client should narrow down which areas need help. ... Download 3 Free Positive Psychology Exercises (PDF) ... G., & Kazantzis, N. (2008). Social problem-solving skills for adults with mild intellectual disability: A multiple case study. Behaviour Change, 25(2), 97-108 ...

  3. 10 Best Problem-Solving Therapy Worksheets & Activities

    We have included three of our favorite books on the subject of Problem-Solving Therapy below. 1. Problem-Solving Therapy: A Treatment Manual - Arthur Nezu, Christine Maguth Nezu, and Thomas D'Zurilla. This is an incredibly valuable book for anyone wishing to understand the principles and practice behind PST.

  4. Interpersonal Skills: Practical Role-Play Scenarios (Social Interaction)

    It is a skill that can be improved with effort and dedication. Role-playing scenarios are not effective in improving interpersonal skills. Role-playing scenarios provide a safe environment to practice social interactions and receive feedback from others on how to improve communication, empathy, active listening, conflict resolution, etc.

  5. Navigating Real-Life Situations: Social Problem Solving Scenarios PDF

    A social problem solving scenarios PDF is a collection of real-life situations that individuals can use to practice their problem-solving skills. These scenarios are designed to simulate common social challenges and provide individuals with opportunities to navigate them effectively. They often include prompts, questions, and suggested ...

  6. 11 Social Skills Worksheets for Seamless Social Interactions

    4 Best Activities for Children and Teenagers. Activities where children visualize, role-play, or work through social interactions and engagements can develop their understanding, awareness, self-confidence, and self-knowledge. And "like any other skill, practice makes perfect" (Daniels & Rabar, 2019, p. 13).

  7. Problem Solving Games, Activities & Exercises for Adults

    4. Sudoku. Sudoku is one of the most popular free problem solving games for adults. The objective of this game is to fill each box of a 9×9 grid so that every row, column, and letter contains each number from one to nine. The puzzle makes a great team challenge. To play Sudoku on Zoom, screen share the game board.

  8. Practical Social Problem Solving Scenarios for Better Emotional

    Step 1: Identifying the problem - Recognize the specific issue causing the disagreement. Step 2: Generating possible solutions - Brainstorm different ways to resolve the disagreement. Step 3: Evaluating the pros and cons of each solution - Consider the potential outcomes and consequences of each solution.

  9. 71+ Free Social Problem-Solving Scenarios

    71+ Communal Problem Scenarios + 6 Plain Scenarios . Use and 71 social problem-solving scenarios until have their students get great experience practicing how to solve a socializing problem. Also, included are 6 blank scenarios. Then laminate them so you can usage them over and across again.

  10. Free Social Problem Solving Scenarios Teaching Resources

    This speech and language resource 3 separate BINGO games targeting simple problem-solving skills!The first 2 BINGO games each target 15 problem-solving scenarios (total of 30 problem-solving scenarios). For each game, there are 10 different cards, each with 8 visual solutions + one free space. Calling cards are included for each game.

  11. PDF Just for Adults Deductions

    The exercises in Just for Adults: Deductionswere developed to address verbal/written deductive reasoning and inferencing followed by figural and object deduction. These skills are the foundation for many language and thought processes and for activities of daily functioning. The exercises in this book can be done in multiple ways.

  12. 22 Social Scenarios for Speech Therapy Practice

    Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are only able to see students/clients 30-60 mins (or less) per week. This is not enough time or practice for someone to strengthen their understanding of and responses to different social scenarios. Every day that your loved one goes without social scenarios practice it becomes more difficult to help them.

  13. Social Scenarios Adult Problem Solving Teaching Resources

    SPED And Tacos. 4.6. (5) $3.50. Zip. This product includes 60 social problem scenario task cards designed for teens and young adults. Level one is designed for students who struggle to identify the problem in a social situation and level two requires the student to identify the problem and the solution.

  14. 22 Executive Functioning Activities For Adults

    Task Analysis: We break "using the call light" down into three steps: 1) Identify the goal to call the nurse 2) Find the call light and 3) Push the button. Errorless Learning: Focus on accuracy by giving enough cues and emphasizing not guessing. High Number of Practice Trials: Practice the task many times.

  15. 67 Thoughtful Social Skill Activities for Adults to Help You Get Out of

    4. Social Scenarios: Create various social scenarios, such as meeting new people or resolving conflicts, and have participants act them out. This activity allows for practice and improvement of social skills. These activities promote effective communication, empathy, and problem-solving. 2 Body language activities for improving nonverbal ...

  16. 5 Examples of Problem Solving Scenarios + ROLE PLAY SCRIPTS

    Customer. Assistant Manager. Role Play Script: Scene 1: Store Manager's Office Store Manager: (Addressing the Assistant Manager and Sales Associate) I've noticed that our customer satisfaction has been declining lately. We've received several complaints about slow service and unhelpful staff. We need to address these issues immediately.

  17. Problem Solving

    Consider your own behavior, as well as external factors. Define your problem. Be as clear and comprehensive as possible. If there are many parts to your problem, describe each of them. TIP: If you find it difficult to separate your emotions from the problem, try to complete this step from the perspective of an impartial friend.

  18. Social Scenarios for adults

    Emotions Wheel (Happy & Sad) Spin the wheel. by Ncruz1. K Social Social Emotional Learning. Counseling Game - Prompt Spinner Spin the wheel. by Adracarina. Counseling Game School Counseling Social Social Skills. AVID Ice breaker - For Adults Spin the wheel. by Amyholte. Getting to know you (teens 5) Open the box.

  19. Problem Solving Packet

    worksheet. Guide your clients and groups through the problem solving process with the help of the Problem Solving Packet. Each page covers one of five problem solving steps with a rationale, tips, and questions. The steps include defining the problem, generating solutions, choosing one solution, implementing the solution, and reviewing the ...

  20. Results for social scenarios adults

    Social Scenarios. This product includes 60 social problem scenario task cards designed for teens and young adults. Level one is designed for students who struggle to identify the problem in a social situation and level two requires the student to identify the problem and the solution. Individual student answer sheets are included and an answer ...

  21. Teaching Social Problem-Solving with a Free Activity

    Here are 5 steps to help kids learn social problem solving skills: 1. Teach kids to communicate their feelings. Being able to openly and respectfully share emotions is a foundational element to social problem solving. Teaching I statements can be a simple and effective way to kids to share their feelings. With an I statement, kids will state ...

  22. Problem Solving Games, Activities & Exercises for Adults

    List of problem solving choose & activities. Off word and number puzzles to role-playing games, here is a list of inexpensive and free problem solving team builders that related groups practice the art of critical thinking and compromise. Problem solving scenarios may subsist easy to find online, but this selection is geared specifically for ...

  23. 14 Brain-Boosting Problem Solving Group Activities For Teams

    Jeopardy. Problem-solving activities such as Virtual Team Challenges offer a great way for teams to come together, collaborate, and develop creative solutions to complex problems. 2. Problem-Solving Templates. Problem-Solving Templates are popular problem-solving activities that involve a group of people working together to solve an issue.