| The purpose of this project is to propose a solution-focused and gestalt counseling group for adopted elementary school students in order to foster academic, social, identity, and emotional development. Adopted children may experience challenges in academics, peer relationships, attachment, and behavioral and emotional regulation. These obstacles may contribute to an overrepresentation of adopted children in special education and having discipline problems in the classroom. Research suggests that group counseling can be beneficial for adopted children to foster a sense of belonging, provide academic support, and teach social skills. A 12-week group is outlined with suggested warm-up activities, group exercises, and interventions. Practicing social skills and processing details about their adoption aim to facilitate an enriching experience for young adopted students. These interventions are aimed at teaching emotional and behavioral regulation skills, as well as learning behaviors to help students progress academically, socially, and emotionally. |
