Executive Function (EF) is the set of mental skills that include working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control. Reading together is one of the best ways to strengthen these skills before the lights go out.

Here are 5 must-read stories that turn bedtime into a brain-boosting session!

1. “The Going to Bed Book” by Sandra Boynton

• Focus Skill: Working Memory & Sequencing
• Why it works: This classic follows a repetitive sequence of events (scrubbing in the tub, putting on pajamas, brushing teeth).
• EF Tip: Ask your child, “What did the animals do first?” or “What comes after the bath?” This helps them practice sequencing and predicting routines.

2. “Waiting is Not Easy!” by Mo Willems

• Focus Skill: Inhibitory Control (Impulse Control)
• Why it works: Gerald the Elephant has to wait a long time for a surprise from Piggie. It perfectly captures the struggle of being patient.
• EF Tip: Discuss how Gerald felt while waiting. It teaches children to recognize the feeling of “wanting it now” and how to manage that impulse.

3. “The Most Magnificent Thing” by Ashley Spires

• Focus Skill: Cognitive Flexibility & Perseverance
• Why it works: A little girl tries to make something “magnificent” but fails repeatedly. She gets frustrated but eventually shifts her perspective to succeed.
• EF Tip: This is great for emotional regulation. Talk about what to do when a plan doesn’t work out—how to “pivot” and try a new idea.

4. “Going on a Bear Hunt” by Michael Rosen

• Focus Skill: Working Memory & Following Directions
• Why it works: The repetitive “Over it, under it, through it” structure requires kids to keep the physical steps in mind as the story progresses.
• EF Tip: Use hand gestures for each obstacle. Recalling the movements along with the words builds working memory.

5. “Press Here” by Hervé Tullet

• Focus Skill: Focus, Attention & Following Instructions
• Why it works: This interactive book asks the child to press dots, tilt the book, and clap. It requires intense focus on specific instructions to “make the magic happen” on the next page.
• EF Tip: It’s a workout for selective attention—the ability to focus on a task despite distractions.

💡 Quick Tips for “EF Reading”:

• Pause and Wonder: Don’t just read; ask “What do you think happens next?”
• Connect to Real Life: “Remember when you felt frustrated like the girl in the book? What did you do?”
• Be Expressive: Use different voices to help them distinguish between characters’ feelings and perspectives (Theory of Mind).