Self-regulationHow children monitor their emotions and thoughts, and adapt their actions in different circumstances. helps children to:

• monitor their thoughts, emotions and actions
• manage their emotions
• choose how to adapt their thoughts and actions in different circumstances.

It is closely related to executive functionCognitive skills that enable children to adapt their thinking and actions to achieve a ​‘goal’. This goal may be self-chosen (e.g. to build a tower) or adult-led (e.g. respond to a question about a story)., which supports children’s:

• attention
• memory
• flexible thinking.

They play an important role in children’s wellbeing and learning across the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework. 

To find out more, visit the Self-Regulation and Executive Function theme.