Self-regulation and executive function
Executive function includes the child’s ability to hold information in mind, focus their attention, think flexibly, and inhibit impulsive behaviour.
These abilities contribute to the child’s growing ability to self-regulate. Supporting their developing ability to concentrate their thinking, plan what to do next, monitor what they are doing and adapt, regulate strong feelings, be patient for what they want, and bounce back when things get difficult.
Language development is central to self-regulation: children use language to guide their actions and plans. Pretend play gives many opportunities for children to focus their thinking, persist and plan ahead.
Download the following materials which can be used to monitor and improve the quality of your practice and provision: