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Executive Function and Mindfulness

I have been reading several articles lately emphasizing the importance of executive function, (link to one such article from Edutopia https://www.edutopia.org/article/executive-skills-struggling-reader-kelly-cartwright?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=socialflow)
Executive function is ones ability to sequence events prioritize and act on decisions to get to foreseen or expected results. Executive function can be broken down into more detailed bits but the outcome is; one has the focus and control to stick with a problem and work through the details to solve a problem and/or successfully implement knowledge and strategies. Improving executive function by improving ones ability to focus has been a very effective strategy when tackling issues for student’s stuggling with reading and other academic and social issues. It is my experience that when learners are better able to focus they are better able to successfully move through tasks requiring the use of their executive functioning. To improve focus, I have implemented various mindfulness practices including but not limited to the ideas outlined in

Susan Kaiser Greenland's book Mindful Games to improve focus, improving a learner's ability to shift focus helps learners better regulate when they are getting off task,  allowing for better at self-regulation and more independence while directing their own thoughts and learning. Mindfulness training can improve focus and helps learners develop more stick-to-itiveness  and lead to more self-assured and successful learners.

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