Backgrounders

Read an article from AuKids Magazine about spark* to get an idea of some of the skills and strategies in spark*, spark*EL and Self-Regulation in Everyday Life.

Components and strategies used in spark* and spark*EL are discussed in each Backgrounder. They’ll give you more information about what they are, why and how they’re used. Have a look.

• Backgrounder – supporting self regulation
• Backgrounder – eye contact
• Backgrounder – language of spark and sparkEL
• Backgrounder – explaining the brain and executive functions to children
• Backgrounder – calm adults equal calm children
• Backgrounder – using special interests to teach self-regulation

Get more information in our new monthly spark* News

Executive Functions that are at the heart of spark*, spark*EL, and Self-Regulation in Everyday Life.  The programs have specific ways to develop these executive functions in children.

1. Working memory – Here is information on what working memory is and ways to approach improving it. Find it here:  executive functions – working memory
2. Inhibitory control – Here’s information on what inhibitory control is and ways to help children improve it. Find it here: executive functions – inhibitory control
3. Planning & organization – Here’s information on what planning & organization are and ways to help children improve. Find it here: executive functions – planning & organization
4. Self-monitoring
5. Cognitive flexibility

Rate your own executive functioning on this executive function rating card. Read the description of each executive function and rate yourself on the 0-to-10 scale. What does your profile look like (hint: they’re usually uneven; you’ll have some stronger executive functions and some that aren’t quite as strong – that’s part of being human)?