Author: Carolyn Fruin

Embedding Executive Function into All Classrooms

For students to succeed academically, it takes more than simply knowing what to study—they need to have the ability to learn. This starts with students understanding Executive Function (EF), and the essential role it plays in achieving desired results—from aceing a test to winning an art contest. As teachers and parents, it’s our responsibility to…

Clinician Spotlight: Executive Function, ADHD, and Academic Success

Self-regulation and Executive Function (EF) rely on three key types of brain function: working memory, mental flexibility, and inhibitory control. These highly interrelated skills are imperative to a child’s development. But what does this mean for children diagnosed with ADHD? A Bit of Background In a recently published study done by Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical…

Play Builds Serious Skills

Playtime is many things. It’s fun for children. It’s an escape for busy parents. But it’s much more than that. According to Dr. Stephanie M. Carlson, distinguished McKnight University Professor at the University of Minnesota, and Reflection Sciences co-founder, “Play is about as ‘blueprinted’ a behavior as you can have in terms of basic survival…

COVID-19, Student Trauma, and Executive Function

Everyday, we are bombarded with  new information on and experiences with COVID-19. While we may be acutely aware of how the pandemic impacts us personally we may not know how the pandemic is impacting our children or students, or  how to prevent possible long-term negative effects. It’s logical to presume that many children are experiencing…

Get Certified in Executive Function

Whether you know it or not, Executive Function (EF) is present in your classroom. From lining up for recess in elementary school to performing a lab experiment in high school, the brain’s air traffic control system is being fine-tuned at these moments. According to EF expert and co-founder of the Reflection Sciences, Dr. Stephanie Carlson,…

What is Executive Function?

Executive Function, or “EF”, is a distinct set of skills imperative to school readiness and academic success. Scientists refer to these skills as the biological foundation for adaptation and learning throughout life. They argue that strong working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control – the 3 components of EF – provide the basis upon which…

What Educators and Parents Need to Know About Childhood Trauma

“Trauma” has become a buzzword of sorts. You might have heard the term “trauma-informed education” or heard someone say that they feel “triggered”. These words and phrases have gained popularity, with some even suggesting that “trauma” was the mental health buzzword of 2018. The American Psychological Association defines trauma as, “an emotional response to a…

Five Fun Strategies for Home-Based Learning to Share with Parents

No one could have predicted what your classroom would look like now – a nature poster as a backdrop on the wall of your dining room for visual effect, an iPad on your left and a laptop on your right to make sure you’re seeing what you’re students are seeing – it’s a brand new…

Keeping Kids Sharp During the Coronavirus Quarantine

Kids of all ages are being affected by school closures brought on by the novel coronavirus pandemic. For school-age children, the transition to home-schooling and remote learning can be jarring and challenge their developing executive function skills. This period of social isolation and school disruption can be a good opportunity for parents to engage with…