In Developing Executive Functioning in the Early Years, Dr Rosalyn Muir delves into the crucial yet often overlooked domain of executive functioning in young children. Drawing on more than 30 years of educational experience and rigorous Ph D research, Dr Muir introduces the SOWATT framework – a practical toolkit for educators. This book bridges the gap between theory and practice, offering actionable strategies for developing executive functions such as self-regulation, working memory and cognitive flexibility.
Dr Muir’s work is deeply rooted in contemporary educational goals, resonating with the OECD’s vision of student agency and the Early Years Learning Framework. Through the lens of the SOWATT framework, educators are provided with concrete steps to cultivate these essential skills in the classroom. This book emphasises that all children – not just those with learning difficulties – benefit from the intentional development of executive functions. By presenting a holistic and accessible approach, the author empowers educators to transform their practice, ultimately setting up children for a lifetime of success and fulfilment.
Inhaltsverzeichnis
Foreword
Introduction
Chapter 1: Why bother developing executive functions?
Chapter 2: Educators as gamechangers
Chapter 3: Self-regulation
Chapter 4: Organisation
Chapter 5: Working memory
Chapter 6: Attention
Chapter 7: Thinking flexibly
Chapter 8: Thinking about thinking
Chapter 9: SOWATT’s next?
Chapter 10: Postscript to educators
Resources
References
Acknowledgements
About the author
Über den Autor
Dr Rosalyn Muir is an accomplished educator with a global career spanning England, Canada, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Ireland, Peru, Spain and Australia. Her extensive experience in various roles, from classroom teacher to head teacher, advisor and researcher, has reinforced her belief in the pivotal role educators play in shaping students‘ futures. With a master’s degree and a Ph D focused on professional learning and the development of executive functioning and self-regulation, Dr Muir is passionate about supporting educators in enhancing their practices.