What's the E.F? Executive Functioning

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Executive Functioning is an increasingly researched in child development and education and is the cognitive powerhouse of learning skills and life skills.  Simply put, executive functions are a sophisticated set of mental process (skills) and cognitive competencies that enable individuals to effectively manage complex tasks, engage in forward-looking planning, solve problems, and exercise a high degree of self-control. The core E.F triad is widely agreed upon as: working memory, inhibition control and cognitive flexibility. 

By integrating E.F. research, pedagogies and provision, educators have the potential to make a real difference to the lives of their students.

Why executive functioning matters

Research consistently demonstrates that children who develop strong executive function skills from their early years are better prepared for academic success, social relationships, and lifelong learning. Without strong executive functioning, children cannot demonstrate the ‘Characteristics of Learning’, ascribed to in the EYFS Framework and the foundational cognitive skills needed within every year of educational life. Executive Functions can develop rapidly during the early years and are heavily influenced by the quality of children's experiences and interactions. Rather than being separate from learning, executive function skills are woven throughout every meaningful learning opportunity.  

Executive function skills continue to develop throughout childhood into adulthood and can be strengthen throughout this time, enabling children and young people to strengthen their skills such as concentration, focus, attention, memory, recall, socialisation, emotional regulation, planning and organising. Developing awareness of E.F. at all stages of a child's educational journey, can make a real difference.

See below for training programmes in E.F. offered or contact us for a discussion about introducing E.F. into your setting.

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