POPULATION
This activity is designed for individuals or any size group ages 6 through adult.
FOCUS
Problem solving, creativity, and cognitive flexibility to enhance well-being.
OVERVIEW
Problem solving is an important life skill and the PIP (Problems-Ideas-Plans) is a fun, creative tool to develop that skill. It is unusual in that it teaches creative problem solving in less than an hour. Deficits in problem solving ability are related to the development of depressive disorders so a problem-solving approach is an important strategy for prevention and skill building (AdolescentWellness.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/21_Depression_C_Problem_Solving.pdf). It is also an effective coping skill for managing symptoms of ADHD (ex. Vimeo.com/1137399360).
BENEFITS
"It was calming to break it down like that, instead of bottling it up"
- Breaks stigma by addressing worries
- Raises awareness when facilitated with related content
- Defers judgment on ideas – generating many ideas and perspectives
- Promotes collaboration
- Enhances cognitive flexibility to recognize and transition to new opportunities
Educators will recognize problem solving as an element common to academic constructs and the PIP is a practical activity that develops decision making, along with creative (divergent) and critical (convergent) thinking skills.
COST
Free
Pages 2-3 Worksheet for PIP (Problems-Ideas-Plans) creative problem-solving model
Page 4 Facilitator script for PIP Worksheet
Pages 5-9 Slide presentation for PIP
Pages 10-11 Slide presentation notes
CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION
See the AdolescentWellness.org website or email Bob Anthony (rwa1645@gmail.com).