LearningWorks for Kids is the best place to learn how to use commercially-popular games and digital technologies to teach children the critical thinking and self-regulatory skills known as executive functions. We link executive functions used in digital play to children’s real-world experiences, with instructional guides for computer software, Nintendo, Play Station, and Xbox systems; multiplayer online games; digital photography; instant messaging; cell phones; iPods; and creating content for YouTube or Facebook. MORE

Executive functions are brain-based psychological skills that facilitate setting, achieving and evaluating goals, understanding the world and oneself, and sustaining focus and effort. Executive functions help individuals organize, plan and remember as well as manage their emotions and behavior. Difficulties with executive functioning are often seen in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD), Learning Disabilities (LD), Mood and Anxiety, and Social-Communicative disorders. MORE

Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities (LD), and psychosocial difficulties often learn differently from their peers. Difficulties such as getting started, managing time, and sustaining attention and effort are often observed in these children. However, these same children are frequently identified by their “engamement” with digital technologies, making these tools an ideal vehicle for teaching executive functions and academic, social and emotional skills. MORE

LearningWorks for Kids guides to popular, non-violent video games and digital technologies provide step-by-step directions for using these tools to improve real-world executive functions. Playbooks help parents and teachers employ a child's cognitive and psychological captivation -- or "engamement" -- with digital technologies to teach executive functioning skills. We demonstrate how to use digital technologies as part of a healthy “play diet” to teach skills such as working memory, organization, flexibility, and metacognition.   MORE