Adele Diamond, neuroscience pioneer, on executive function

Our Tools co-founders knew from the very beginning that the work they were doing was developing children’s self-regulation in every activity. Two pivotal studies both led by neuroscientist Adele Diamond proved that and then some. 

In 2007, Diamond led a research study about Tools preschool that was published in Science Magazine that demonstrated the power of Tools’ preschool to improve children’s cognitive control. In 2019, Diamond led a study of Tools kindergarten that was published in PLOS ONE and showed Tools improves self-regulation and academic outcomes while reducing bullying and increasing joy in the classroom. 

If we can start everybody with having good executive functions, with enjoying learning, with being able to control their behavior, then everybody can do better.
-Adele Diamond, Neuroscientist

Diamond is a world leader in the field of developmental cognitive neuroscience and a pioneer of research on executive function. Her decades of work have impacted early childhood education. Diamond knows from her research that, “If we can start everybody with having good executive functions, with enjoying learning, with being able to control their behavior, then everybody can do better. And that affects not just academics, it also affects health—both mental health and physical health. Everything's related.” And we’re grateful to say she shared these wise words in a conversation with our very own Dr. Deborah Leong.  

Recently, Tools co-founder Dr. Leong sat down with Diamond and had a powerful conversation about the 2007 and 2019 studies, executive function and so much more. We’re excited to share our first clip from this juicy conversation here on Tools for Thought. 

Watch this 2-minute clip to hear more of Diamond’s research-based thinking on how executive function impacts children and their ability to be successful in school and life. 

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