Executive Function for Preschoolers: Strategies for Routines and Play

Help Children Succeed in Learning, Relationships, and Everyday Life—with Strong Executive Skills

The skills children need to control impulses, follow directions, solve problems, and manage big feelings, all part of executive function (EF), don't develop automatically. The good news is that these skills can be nurtured during the early years, so teachers have a unique opportunity to help children build these essential foundations.

In this practical guide, you'll discover how to support five key EF skills that facilitate learning and development in preschool: selective attention, inhibitory control, working memory, cognitive flexibility, and problem solving. Using a clear, accessible approach, the authors explain what the EF system is and how to strengthen EF skills through playful, developmentally appropriate experiences throughout the day.

Inside, you’ll find

• Ideas for using routines, the classroom setup, movement activities, play, games, and simple mindfulness practices to build EF skills
• Adaptations for different levels of support
• Examples and questions that help you consider and apply the concepts and ideas to your own setting
• Tips for partnering with families to support EF at home

Facilitating executive function doesn't have to mean adding one more thing to an already full day. With the right strategies, you can intentionally nurture these skills through your typical daily activities. Children will learn how to self-regulate, become more engaged, and gain confidence in everything they do!