EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS – working memory, mental flexibility and self-control – are critical to learning and self-regulation. To develop these skills in children, make the most of imaginary play and storytelling.
Imaginary play
During imaginary play, children develop rules to guide their actions. They also hold complex ideas in mind and shape their actions to follow these rules, inhibiting impulses that don’t fit the role. Players often take ideas from their own lives, such as going to the doctor’s. While younger children tend to play alone or in parallel, three to fives are learning to play co-operatively and are often regulating each other’s behaviour – an important step in developing self-regulation.
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