Can you find five differences in the image above? This task requires concentration and focus, behaviors that rely heavily on the Executive Function (EF) skill of working memory.
Working memory is the skill to keep information active in your mind for a short period of time (seconds) and keeping it available for further processing. This ability allows children to block out unnecessary information as well as keep them focused on what matters.
In this week’s Executive Function activity, What Changed? players practice and improve their observational skills along with the ability to focus, both of which are related to strong EF skills. This is incredibly important as children with poor working memory function are at very high risk of educational underachievement. Because of this, Reflection Sciences and Playworks support families and teachers striving to keep kids from falling behind.
For more information about Executive Function development, enroll in our free course, Supporting Executive Function Development at Home. And don’t forget to check out our past activities here!
About the Author:
Carrie Fruin is the mother of three sons and grandmother of two. She taught high school science for over 25 years and still is active in STEM education.
She has a strong belief that all children can learn, and it is through the understanding of Executive Function (EF) skills and their relationship to Social-emotional learning (SEL) that will assist educators in reaching all children and providing them a true foundation for success in life.