Executive function

Children use executive functions to organise their thinking, behaviour, and emotions. These skills can be strengthened through well-designed teaching and routines.

Short code	Description
Attention	The ability to focus on relevant information while filtering out distractions.
Working memory	The capacity to hold and manipulate information in the mind over short periods.
Managing impulses	The skill of pausing to think before acting, supporting self-control and decision-making.
Planning and sequencing and organisation	The ability to break down tasks, order steps, and manage resources effectively.
Cognitive flexibility	The capacity to adapt thinking and switch between different concepts or tasks.