Ms. Shraddha Bhadsavle, Head of Curriculum Design and Planning at Aatman Academy, conducted a highly engaging and insightful session on Executive Functions as part of the EnAble Program by DPS, a two-year initiative focused on inclusive education. With academic credentials including a PG Diploma in Special Education and a Diploma in Counseling, and years of experience with Aatman Academy and its vocational wing, AAVA, Ms. Bhadsavle brought a wealth of knowledge to the session. The workshop began with lively ice-breaker games—both indoor and outdoor—such as chess, monopoly, ludo, cricket, and stapoo. These familiar yet thoughtfully chosen games set an energizing tone and subtly introduced the importance of executive functioning. The core of the session delved into key executive function skills—planning, time management, working memory, self-monitoring, impulse control, cognitive flexibility, task initiation, sustained attention, and goal-directed persistence. Educators were provided with practical strategies to identify and nurture these skills in students, especially those who face challenges in academic and real-life scenarios. A highlight of the session was the alignment of each executive function with specific, easy-to-implement classroom or recreational activities, making the content immediately applicable. Ms. Bhadsavle emphasized the importance of encouraging students to reflect before beginning any task, fostering stronger engagement of executive processes. The session reinforced the idea that these skills are not innate for all learners but can be developed through structured support and intentional practice. Concluding on a reflective note, the workshop empowered educators with effective, inclusive strategies to help all students thrive academically and socially.
