Executive Function and Learning Insights.

Explore research, strategies, and ideas that connect executive function to learning success.

9 Ways to Model Working Memory

Working memory is an executive function that describes the ability to use and recall information stored in the memory to complete tasks. When you model working memory strategies, you give students practical ways to stay on task, pay attention, and remember important information. Students who struggle with working memory often (...)

9 Ways to Model Task Initiation

Task Initiation is an executive function that describes the ability to get started on projects, assignments, and tasks without procrastinating. Students who struggle with task initiation are often seen as lazy or unmotivated, but many times they are just stuck without a clear understanding of how to tackle even seemingly (...)

9 Ways to Model Emotional Control

To help students develop critical executive function skills, it is essential to model emotional control in your classroom. Emotional control refers to the ability to manage one’s feelings while completing tasks and working toward goals. Students who struggle with emotional control often react strongly to triggers or problems, making it (...)

9 Ways to Model Flexibility

As educators, one of the most impactful ways we can support students in developing flexible thinking is by ensuring we model flexibility in our daily interactions and routines. In education, flexibility is a vital executive function that describes the ability to adapt to changing conditions by revising plans or switching (...)

9 Ways to Model Self-Monitor

Self-monitoring is a vital executive function skill that enables individuals to evaluate their own performance and behavior within a given situation. To help students develop this crucial ability, educators can model self-monitor in everyday classroom interactions. Modeling self-monitor not only guides students in building self-awareness but also equips them with (...)

9 Ways to Model Self-Control

Model self-control to create a classroom environment where students learn to pause, think, and act intentionally rather than impulsively. In the classroom, students struggling with self-control often face challenges regulating their behavior, leading to disruptions and missed learning opportunities. Teaching self-control is essential but demonstrating it through intentional modeling is (...)