Raising Good Humans Ep 76: Executive Function Skills Are The Air Traffic Control System of The Brain with Professor Phil Zelazo
Jan 8, 2021
Professor Phil Zelazo, a leading developmental psychologist and cognitive neuroscientist, dives into the essential role of executive function skills in children's development. He discusses how these skills, akin to an air traffic control system for the brain, can be nurtured through supportive parenting. Highlighting the importance of working memory, cognitive flexibility, and real-life interactions, Zelazo shares practical activities to bolster these skills. Listeners learn how everyday tasks and parental modeling can significantly enhance their children's cognitive abilities.
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Executive Function Development
- Executive function skills, the conscious control of thoughts, actions, and emotions, develop throughout life, but primarily during early childhood.
- These skills are best cultivated within secure, supportive relationships, through active use and practice, leading to stronger neural pathways.
Supporting EF Skill Development
- Give children challenges suitable for their age, neither too easy nor too difficult.
- Support their problem-solving by offering guidance without taking over, allowing them to experience, correct mistakes, and build agency.
Components of EF Skills
- Executive function skills, including working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control, work together, especially in children.
- Working memory involves holding and using information for intentional actions, often using private speech (talking to oneself).