Executive Function and Emotional Regulation in the Classroom

“This book masterfully bridges the science of EF, emotion regulation, and motivation, with practical strategies educators can use every day. True success—academic, social, and emotional—comes not just from intelligence, but from the ability to manage emotions, navigate challenges, and think with flexibility. The tools in these pages empower educators to create classrooms where students build confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose, turning learning into a journey of growth and meaningful achievement for every child.”

—Marc A. Brackett, PhD, Professor in the Child Study Center and Founding Director, Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, Yale University


“Meltzer and Dunstan present an important and timely book with a unique focus—integrating EF and emotional self-regulation in the classroom. The contributors show how to address these critical capacities across grade levels and educational settings. Throughout the chapters, detailed examples of assessment of students’ strengths and needs in EF and emotional self-regulation are provided. Strategies for recognizing and managing emotional responses tied to learning and EF are shared, and student outcomes highlighted. This groundbreaking book will assist researchers, teacher educators, and teachers in developing learners who can achieve both academic success and emotional well-being.”

—Karen R. Harris, EdD, Regents Professor Emeritus and Research Professor, Division of Educational Leadership and Innovation, Arizona State University.