Ready, Set, Executive Function! Giving the Green Light to Prioritizing Self-Regulation in the PK-3 Classroom and Beyond! Deb Norris September 16, 2021

This series will provide participants with a greater understanding of the vital connection between executive functions and self-regulation, and the necessity of explicitly teaching these facets in the school setting to increase independence. Particular attention will be paid to problem solving, regulation, organization, working memory, and attention. Participants will: Understand common executive functioning facets and the development of these skills as observed in the classroom Understand common classroom challenges and how they relate to challenges in executive functioning Identify, and apply various strategies and activities to teach executive functioning development and incorporate them into the classroom Day 1 - Self Regulation and Executive Functions: Connecting the Dots Participants will understand how to support all learners in becoming aware of and managing their overall executive function skills. Participants will also discuss the connection between co-regulation and self-regulation, and learn strategies to support both in the classroom and on the playground. Day 2 - Map it Out: Making Plans to Succeed Participants will discuss the importance of planning, prioritizing, and mental mapping, and how these abilities show up in play and academic contexts. In addition, participants will redefine problems, honor the various ways of perceiving them, and learn tools to support learners in understanding their feelings, regulating, and moving forward with problem-solving.