Welcome everyone! Today we’re kicking off our Brain Boss Bootcamp. First, introduce yourself and explain that over three sessions we’ll learn about the skills our brains use to help us get things done, make good choices, and solve problems. Then review the objectives.

Explain that ‘executive functioning’ is like the boss of our brain. It helps us plan, focus, and control ourselves so we can be successful at school and beyond.

Define working memory and give an example. Ask students to think of other times they had to keep information in mind.

Explain self-control. Highlight how it helps us make good choices even when it’s tough. Encourage students to share a time they resisted a distraction.

Describe flexible thinking. Show how being open to new ideas or changing plans can solve problems. Ask for an example of a time they had to switch strategies.

Check comprehension by asking students to give a thumbs-up if they feel confident about the skill, or a thumbs-down if they need another example. Use this to inform your pacing.

Introduce the matching activity. Explain how groups will match behaviors to the skills we just learned. Remind them to discuss their reasoning.

Welcome back to Brain Boss Bootcamp! Today, we’ll explore why executive functioning matters—especially planning and organization—and then put these skills into action.

Explain that executive functioning isn’t just talking about thoughts—it’s about making things happen smoothly. Use a real-life example like preparing for a field trip.

Define planning clearly. Ask students to share quick examples of times they’ve planned ahead (e.g., packing lunch, organizing a game).

Define organization and relate it to everyday items. You might show a messy vs. neat pencil case image to illustrate.

Model planning on chart paper. Walk through packing a backpack for a school day: 1. Choose items to bring 2. Sequence items by use (e.g., lunch last) 3. Estimate how long it takes to pack each item

Quick check before we start the challenge. Ask students to give a thumbs-up if they understand planning and organization, or a thumbs-down if they’d like another example.

Explain the upcoming group planning challenge. Remind students to use the steps and organization strategies we discussed.

Welcome back to Brain Boss Bootcamp! Today we’ll learn strategies to improve our executive functioning skills and then practice them with a fun Bingo game.

Introduce **self-monitoring**. Explain that checking your own progress and focus helps you stay on task and catch mistakes early.

Define **goal-setting**. Emphasize creating clear, measurable objectives so you know exactly what you’re working toward.

Explain **use of checklists**. Show how checking off items prevents forgetting steps in a multi-part task.

Model completing the first part of the Goal-Setting Worksheet. Think aloud as you choose a skill, write a SMART goal, and list your first action step.

Quick comprehension check. Ask students to give a thumbs-up if they understand each strategy, thumbs-down if they’d like another example.

Explain the rules for Executive Functioning Bingo. Remind students to listen for scenarios, self-monitor before marking, and be ready to explain when they call Bingo.