Executive function (EF) skills are the cognitive processes that power you to achieve a goal — whether that’s starring in the school musical or getting to class on time.
EF skills help us break down a big goal into actionable steps and then transition between those steps smoothly. ADHD brains often struggle with EFs, but, as educators, we can help our students fortify these skills, which are essential in school and in life.One of the best ways to support executive functioning is by establishing “lead dominoes.” A lead domino is an action or routine that will make other things in our life fall into place.
It kicks off a chain reaction of desired outcomes.Brain scans show that, after 20 minutes of movement, the brain is active and ready to learn.
The positive effects last for two to three hours after exercise — attention is improved, memory is enhanced, and the endorphins released during physical activity decrease levels of stress and anxiety.Teachers worry that, if kids get up to move, it will be hard to rein them in again.