Lesson Plan
Adapt & Thrive Lesson Plan
Students will build coping skills through creative crochet activities, reinforcing emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and social strategies in a hands-on way.
Using crochet as a tangible coping tool helps teens learn stress-management techniques by linking stitches to strategies, fostering mindfulness, creativity, and resilience.
Audience
11th Grade Students
Time
6 sessions, 30 minutes each
Approach
Hands-on crochet paired with reflection journaling.
Materials
- Likert-Scale Transition & Coping Pre/Post Survey, - Transition Case Studies Handout, - Coping Skills Toolbox Worksheet, - Barrier Mapping Poster Set, - Reflection Journal Pages, - Crochet Hooks & Yarn, - Crochet Coping Skills Guide, - Timer or Stopwatch, and - Markers and Sticky Notes
Prep
Teacher Preparation
15 minutes
- Print and review all session handouts:
- Arrange seating in a semi-circle for easy demonstration and discussion.
- Gather markers, sticky notes, timer/stopwatch.
- Prepare enough basic crochet hooks (size H or I) and medium-weight yarn.
- Familiarize yourself with the Crochet Coping Skills Guide.
Step 1
Session 1: Introduction & Pre-Assessment
30 minutes
- Distribute Likert-Scale Transition & Coping Pre/Post Survey and allow 5 minutes for individual completion.
- Facilitate a 5-minute discussion on survey topics and establish group norms (respect, confidentiality).
- Introduce series objectives: transitions, coping, barriers (5 min).
- Guided journaling: reflect on a recent life change using Reflection Journal Pages (10 min).
- Quick share-out of reflections and explain ongoing journal use.
Step 2
Session 2: Managing Transitions
30 minutes
- Review transition concepts and distribute Transition Case Studies Handout (5 min).
- Pair up to analyze one case study and discuss emotions, steps, and barriers (10 min).
- Groups share key strategies for navigating change (5 min).
- Individual journaling: identify a personal transition and action plan (10 min).
Step 3
Session 3: Developing Coping Skills Through Crochet
30 minutes
- Introduce four coping skill categories (emotional, cognitive, behavioral, social) (5 min).
- Distribute crochet hooks, yarn, and the Crochet Coping Skills Guide.
- Demonstrate one simple stitch linked to a coping strategy (e.g., chain stitch for breathing exercises) (5 min).
- Students practice stitches mapped to each category:
- Emotional: chain loops to simulate mindful breathing
- Cognitive: single-crochet clusters for reframing thoughts
- Behavioral: rows of half-double crochet for structured activity
- Social: join motifs to represent seeking support
(10 min)
- Journal: reflect on how the crochet activity felt and select one new coping skill to practice this week (5 min).
Step 4
Session 4: Identifying Barriers
30 minutes
- Explain barrier mapping and supply Barrier Mapping Poster Set (5 min).
- Small groups create maps of barriers related to a common transition (10 min).
- Groups present their maps and discuss common obstacles (10 min).
- Journal: choose one personal barrier and brainstorm two solutions (5 min).
Step 5
Session 5: Integrating Skills
30 minutes
- Present a hypothetical transition scenario (e.g., starting a new job) (5 min).
- Teams apply transition, coping (including crochet if desired), and barrier-busting strategies to solve scenario challenges (15 min).
- Groups share solutions and receive peer feedback (5 min).
- Journal: set two SMART goals for applying these skills in real life (5 min).
Step 6
Session 6: Post-Assessment & Action Planning
30 minutes
- Redistribute Likert-Scale Transition & Coping Pre/Post Survey and allow 5 minutes for post-survey completion.
- Pair up to compare pre- and post-results and discuss changes (10 min).
- Facilitate a group reflection on growth and remaining challenges (5 min).
- Final journaling: outline a concrete action plan using Reflection Journal Pages (10 min).
Slide Deck
Session 1: Introduction & Pre-Assessment
• Distribute and complete the Likert Pre-Assessment (5 min)
• Group discussion: survey topics & norms (5 min)
• Introduce series objectives (5 min)
• Guided journaling: reflect on a recent life change (10 min)
Welcome students and set a positive tone. Distribute the Likert pre-survey, explain it’s confidential, and give clear timing. After they finish, guide a brief discussion on survey topics and establish group norms (respect, confidentiality, participation). Introduce the series objectives: managing transitions, building coping skills, and overcoming barriers. Explain the journal activity: ask students to recall a recent change, guide them through prompts, and remind them to write honestly.
Session 2: Managing Transitions
• Review transition concepts (5 min)
• Pair analysis of case studies (10 min)
• Group share: top strategies (5 min)
• Journal: personal transition & action plan (10 min)
Begin by reviewing key transition concepts (e.g., types of change, emotional responses). Hand out case studies and pair students to analyze one each. Circulate, prompt deeper thinking (“What emotions arise? What helped the person adapt?”). Bring everyone back to share top strategies. End by asking each student to journal a personal transition and draft a simple plan.
Session 3: Developing Coping Skills
• Introduce 4 coping categories (5 min)
• Complete Coping Skills Toolbox worksheet (10 min)
• Small-group role-plays of stress scenarios (10 min)
• Journal: choose one new skill to practice (5 min)
Introduce the four coping categories: emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and social. Model filling out a toolbox worksheet. Distribute Coping Skills Toolbox Worksheet and let students list their go-to strategies. Then organize small-group role-plays with stress scenarios—prompt groups to act and respond. Wrap up by having students journal one new skill they’ll practice this week.
Session 4: Identifying Barriers
• Explain barrier mapping concept (5 min)
• Group barrier maps on posters (10 min)
• Present maps & discuss common obstacles (10 min)
• Journal: select a barrier & brainstorm solutions (5 min)
Explain barrier mapping: visualizing obstacles and connections. Provide poster sheets and markers. In groups, ask students to map barriers related to a common transition (e.g., new school). Encourage creativity—use colors, icons. After 10 minutes, each group presents their map and highlights common barriers. Conclude by having students journal one barrier they face and brainstorm two solutions.
Session 5: Integrating Skills
• Review hypothetical transition scenario (5 min)
• Team application of all skills (15 min)
• Group share & peer feedback (5 min)
• Journal: set 2 personal application goals (5 min)
Present a short scenario (e.g., moving to a new town). Divide into teams and ask them to apply transition, coping, and barrier techniques to solve problems in the scenario. Give 10 minutes of planning. Invite each team to share their approach and receive peer feedback. Finish with journaling: students set two personal goals for applying these skills in real life.
Session 6: Post-Assessment & Action Planning
• Complete the Likert Post-Assessment (5 min)
• Pair discussion: compare pre vs. post results (10 min)
• Group reflection on growth & challenges (5 min)
• Journal: draft an ongoing action plan (10 min)
Redistribute the Likert post-survey and give clear instructions and timing. Once completed, pair students to compare pre- and post-results and discuss any changes. Facilitate a group reflection on overall growth and remaining challenges. Conclude by having students write a concrete, step-by-step action plan in their journals for ongoing use of these skills.
Worksheet
Likert Pre-Post Survey
Name: ____________________________
Date: ____________________________
Instructions: For each statement, circle the number that best reflects you. 1 = Strongly Disagree, 2 = Disagree, 3 = Neutral, 4 = Agree, 5 = Strongly Agree.
| Statement | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. I feel confident in my ability to adapt when things change. | ||||||
| 2. I handle transitions (e.g., new classes, friendships) smoothly. | ||||||
| 3. When I face change, I can create a plan to manage it effectively. | ||||||
| 4. I know a variety of strategies to cope with stress or difficult emotions. | ||||||
| 5. I use healthy coping skills (e.g., deep breathing, talking to someone) when I feel stressed. | ||||||
| 6. I can identify barriers (internal or external) that prevent me from reaching my goals. | ||||||
| 7. I can brainstorm possible solutions to overcome obstacles I encounter. | ||||||
| 8. I feel capable of overcoming challenges that arise in my life. | ||||||
| Optional Reflection: | ||||||
| Describe one change you want to manage better this year and one coping skill you will practice: |
Worksheet
Transition Case Studies Handout
Instructions: Read each scenario below. Discuss with a partner or small group, then answer the guiding questions in the space provided.
Scenario 1: Moving to a New School
Alex just moved to a new district and started at a high school where they don’t know anyone. They miss their old friends and feel nervous about fitting in.
Guiding Questions:
- What emotions might Alex be experiencing?
- What steps could Alex take to adapt to the new environment?
- Identify one potential barrier Alex might face and suggest a solution.
Scenario 2: Shifting Friendships
Jordan’s best friend group from middle school has drifted apart. Some friends joined different activities, and Jordan feels left out.
Guiding Questions:
- How might Jordan recognize and cope with feelings of loss or rejection?
- What new strategies can Jordan use to build friendships?
- What barrier could prevent Jordan from reaching out to new peers, and how can they overcome it?
Scenario 3: Assuming a Leadership Role
Taylor was just elected president of the student council. They’re excited but worried about managing responsibilities and public speaking in front of large groups.
Guiding Questions:
- What coping skills could Taylor use to manage stress before a big speech?
- How can Taylor plan and organize tasks to handle this new role effectively?
- Identify one internal barrier (e.g., fear of failure) and one external barrier (e.g., time conflicts). Propose a solution for each.
Worksheet
Coping Skills Toolbox Worksheet
Instructions: For each category below, list at least three coping strategies you currently use or would like to try. Use the space provided to write your ideas.
1. Emotional Coping Skills
(e.g., deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation)
2. Cognitive Coping Skills
(e.g., positive self-talk, reframing negative thoughts)
3. Behavioral Coping Skills
(e.g., exercise, journaling, time management)
4. Social Coping Skills
(e.g., talking with a friend, joining a support group)
Reflection
Which new strategy will you commit to practicing this week, and how will you remind yourself to use it?
Activity
Barrier Mapping Poster Set
Purpose: Visualize obstacles related to a transition or goal and brainstorm solutions.
How to Use Each Poster Sheet
- Central Issue Bubble
• In the center, write the transition or goal (e.g., “Starting Senior Year,” “Balancing Work & School”).
- Barrier Branches
• Draw branches radiating from the center for each type of barrier:
– Internal (e.g., self-doubt, time management)
– External (e.g., lack of resources, unsupportive environment)
• On each branch, write specific barriers.
- Solution Branches
• Add smaller branches off each barrier to list possible solutions or coping strategies.
• Use different colors or icons to differentiate between barrier types and solution types.
- Group Discussion Prompts
• Which barriers are most common across posters?
• Which solutions seem most feasible?
Materials:
- Poster-size sheets with pre-printed central bubble and blank branches
- Markers in multiple colors
- Sticky notes for adding extra ideas
Tips for Facilitation:
- Encourage creativity: stickers, icons, sketches
- Remind students to think broadly about internal and external factors
- Ensure each member contributes at least one barrier and one solution
Use these posters in Session 4 to map out barriers and brainstorm ways to overcome them.
Journal
Reflection Journal Pages
Session 1: Reflect on a Recent Life Change
Think about a recent change you experienced. Describe what happened, how you felt then, and what you hope to learn through this series.
Session 2: Plan Your Transition
Identify a personal transition you anticipate or are currently facing. List three specific steps you can take to navigate this change. Then, consider one possible obstacle and how you might overcome it.
Session 3: Coping Skills Practice
Review four categories of coping skills (emotional, cognitive, behavioral, social). Which strategies are you already using? Which new skill will you commit to practicing this week, and how will you remind yourself to use it?
Session 4: Overcoming Barriers
Select one barrier you’ve mapped in Session 4. Describe this barrier and brainstorm at least two solutions or coping strategies to address it.
Session 5: Setting Personal Goals
Based on what you’ve learned about transitions, coping, and barriers, set two SMART goals for applying these skills in your life. Be specific about what, when, and how you will measure your progress.
Session 6: Reflect and Plan for the Future
Look back at your pre- and post-survey results and journal entries. Reflect on your growth: What improvements do you see? What challenges remain? Finally, outline an action plan with at least three steps you will take to continue building your resilience and adaptation skills beyond this series.
Worksheet
Crochet Coping Skills Guide
Purpose:
This guide helps you link simple crochet stitches to coping strategies across four categories: emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and social. Practice each stitch mindfully and reflect on how it supports your well-being.
Materials:
- Crochet hook (size H/8 or I/9)
- Medium-weight yarn
- Scissors
- Darning needle (optional)
1. Emotional Coping (Chain Stitch)
Description: Creates a foundation of loops.
How to Crochet:
• Make a slip knot on your hook.
• Yarn over and pull through the loop on hook. Repeat for each chain.
Coping Connection: Each loop represents one slow, mindful breath. Inhale as you yarn over; exhale as you pull through.
Reflect: How did focusing on your breath while crocheting affect your stress level?
2. Cognitive Coping (Single Crochet)
Description: Forms dense, even fabric.
How to Crochet:
• Insert hook into next chain or stitch.
• Yarn over, pull up a loop.
• Yarn over, pull through both loops on hook.
Coping Connection: With each stitch, practice reframing a negative thought into a positive one.
Reflect: What negative thought did you reframe, and what new thought did you choose?
3. Behavioral Coping (Half-Double Crochet)
Description: Taller stitch that shows steady progress.
How to Crochet:
• Yarn over, insert hook into next stitch.
• Yarn over, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook).
• Yarn over, pull through all 3 loops.
Coping Connection: Visualize one step of a goal or task per stitch. Let each completed stitch remind you that small actions build momentum.
Reflect: Which task did you focus on, and what step did you plan while crocheting?
4. Social Coping (Joining Motifs)
Description: Connects individual motifs into a larger piece.
How to Crochet:
• Crochet two small motifs (squares or circles).
• Use slip stitches or single crochet to join edges.
Coping Connection: View each motif as a supportive person or resource. Joining them symbolizes building your support network.
Reflect: Which support resources did you “join,” and how will you reach out to them in real life?
Overall Reflection
After completing all four stitches, describe what you learned about the connection between crochet and coping. How might you use crochet as part of your stress-management routine?