The Game, a tool for the development of executive functions in early childhood education in the district of La Unión Leticia

Abstract

Play is an essential tool in the comprehensive development of children in early childhood education, especially in rural contexts such as the district of La Unión Leticia. This proposal, based on neuroeducational strategies and the incorporation of cognitive neuroscience, shows that playful activities not only improve psychomotor development, but also strengthen executive functions that are essential for learning and social adaptation.   Executive functions, such as working memory, inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility and attention, are key skills that children develop through play. These skills allow for greater ability to solve problems, regulate emotions and adapt to changing environments. For example, games that include jumping, running or manipulating small objects not only promote gross and fine motor skills, but also improve concentration, coordination and proactive behavior.   The program implemented in the district of La Unión Leticia “Training executive functions through play”, allowed to train teachers on the importance of play as a tool that trains executive functions mainly and as an active methodology, promoting dynamic and personalized activities in the classroom and open spaces. In addition, families were involved in the educational process, strengthening the continuity of learning at home. The results include significant improvements in the training of executive functions, since the social skills of children were more positive, of course the teaching practice was greatly enriched by this proposal. In conclusion, in this essay we will explain how play is an educational tool that transforms children's learning, especially in rural contexts. Its impact is reflected in better cognitive, emotional and social behavior, generating an important alternative for the training of executive functions necessary for success in daily and community life.