Helping Students Understand Their “Brain Boss”
Why EF Skills Matter
Executive function (EF) isn’t just a psych term — it’s what helps your students remember the instructions, pause before reacting, shift tasks, and finish what they start.
But most kids don’t come to school knowing what executive function is — or that it’s a skill they can grow.
This week, we’re using a child-friendly visual to introduce EF in a playful, non-shaming way:
👉 Brain Boss vs. Brain Blurt
These two characters represent the two parts of the brain kids use all day:
- 🧠 Brain Boss = the part that helps them pause, think, remember, and choose
- 😝 Brain Blurt = the impulsive part that talks over others, reacts fast, or forgets steps
Why It Works
This language makes behaviour less personal:
Instead of “You weren’t listening,” it becomes:
💬 “Looks like Brain Blurt was loud — want to let Brain Boss have a go?”
Over time, it builds:
- Self-awareness
- Impulse control
- Positive behaviour ownership
- Language kids can use without shame
How to Use the Visual:
✅ Introduce it in a neutral moment (not during a correction)
✅ Use storytelling or role-play:
“What might Brain Boss do if Dash wanted to interrupt?”
✅ Display it near the whiteboard or transition zones
✅ Pair it with student reflections on Friday (tool coming)
Need Help?
We can support your class or individual students with EF coaching, resource kits, or consultations. Reach out to explore what’s possible!
Autism Thera-Scholars Teachers Community
📧 info@succeedhealthcare.com.au
🌐 www.succeedhealthcare.com.au
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