Chris and I recently went to a presentation about Executive Function skills.  It was really interesting to hear not only the neuroscience behind why some children/people are able to problem solve, manage time and multi-task.  These are skills that can be developed.  These are skills that are important to develop when children are young to help them as they get older.

What was great about the presentation- and this was the second time I saw this presenter- was that she gave examples of what can be done to help children in using their executive function skills.  She had useful tools for time management and prompts to help children.  So now we walk around pointing out “what would it look like if your room were clean?” or just saying “uh oh” to see if one of the kids can determine what needs correcting.  We have even resorted to doing it to each other.

This is one aspect of Montessori eduction that we have really appreciated- letting the kids figure out for themselves what needs to be done without commanding them.  In Montessori it is called the “control of error,” materials self correct to allow children to have their own “ah ha!” moment.  This leads to self motivated problem solvers.  And we see this in both kids.

One of the first comments Aidan’s teacher made to us was that he works at something until he solves it.  We also see that we can suggest “needing to get ready,” and both kids understand the steps it takes to get ready.

It is more work, and more patience, but this presentation helped us to see that it does pay off.  And having the time and space to hear intellectually something we believe and practice philosophically (and be able to reflect on it) was a great opportunity to reinforce our parenting!