Executive Function and Young Children

Executive Function and Young Children

What is Executive Function?

Executive function is the set of mental skills that allow us to plan, organize, prioritize, pay attention, remember details, and manage time and space effectively. It is our brains way of coordinating everything to achieve goals and solve problems. It is important because children with strong executive function skills are better able to regulate emotions, control impulses, and engage in goal-oriented behavior (all things they will need throughout life)!

How is Executive Function Developed?

By Letting Children Play! Through play young children can develop and strengthen their problem-solving, planning, and decision-making skills. Play encourages children to use their creativity and imagination, which helps in developing cognitive flexibility and working memory.

LCC Play that Supports Executive Function Development

Imaginative Play: Pretend play allows children to practice planning, organization, and problem-solving skills as they create and act out scenarios.

Building with Blocks: Building structures with blocks helps children develop spacial awareness, imagination, and planning skills.

Dressing up and role-playing: This encourages children to practice social skills, empathy, and cognitive flexibility.

Outdoor Play: Playing outdoors provides opportunities for children to develop motor skills and impulse control.