Wellbeing

FUNctioning Skill #4: Inhibition

So far we've explored sustained attention, working memory and organisation.

What we’re focusing on this week: Inhibition

Inhibition is the brain’s internal “pause button.”

It’s what helps children stop and think before they act or speak.

It’s the quiet little space between feeling something and doing something.

Without it, a thought pops up — and boom, it’s out.

With it, kids can catch themselves, wait, and make a more thoughtful choice.

Why it matters:

Being able to pause (even for a beat) gives children more power over their actions.

It means fewer blurts in class, fewer impulsive grabs on the playground, and fewer “Oops, I didn’t mean to!” moments.

Strong inhibition lays the foundation for kindness, resilience, and real problem-solving.

Signs your child might be developing this skill — or might need more practice:

• Blurting out answers without raising their hand
• Interrupting conversations
• Acting on impulse (grabbing toys, running off suddenly)
• Struggling to “wait their turn” in games or discussions
• Reacting before thinking when frustrated or excited

All very normal, especially in young, lively brains still learning to pump the brakes.

How you can help at home playfully:

• Play games that require waiting and listening: Simon Says, Red Light/Green Light, Freeze Dance.
• Model your own pauses: “I’m feeling upset. I’m going to take a deep breath before I answer.”
• Use playful language: “Let’s hit the invisible pause button!”
• Celebrate small victories: “You waited to speak until she finished — I saw that!”
• Practise stop-and-think moments: “Before we head to the park, what are three things we need to remember?”

Chores that build inhibition:

• Waiting to watch TV until a chore is done
• Feeding a pet carefully, without rushing or spilling
• Washing dishes or stacking the dishwasher mindfully
• Helping a younger sibling without taking over
• Following a routine even when they’d rather do something else
• Waiting their turn to use the bathroom or sink
• Putting things away

Games that strengthen inhibition:

• Simon Says
• Red Light/Green Light
• Freeze Dance
• Board games that require taking turns
• Card games where waiting and watching matter (like Uno)

Final note:

Teaching children to pause isn’t about making them perfect little rule-followers. It’s about giving them breathing space — enough room to choose their words, actions, and responses with a little more care.

Every thoughtful pause is a small step toward self-control and kindness.

What's next? Self-monitoring and Emotional Control to come next term, stay tuned.