875.Resource, Gordon, Mrs. Gorski, I Think I Have the Wiggle Fidgets: Mentor Text for Cognitive Regulation (Gr. 3-5)

Cognitive Regulation refers to intentional, strategic, and self-regulated learning. It includes the abilities 1) to determine what is needed to compete a task, 2) to maintain attention and redirect it when it’s lost, 3) to commit to a goal and monitor progress along the way, 4) to identify problems and evaluate solutions, 5) to think about alternatives and choose one when making a decision, 6) to seek and offer help, and 7) to become and remain organized.

Children have trouble paying attention, being quiet ,and sitting still for a variety of reasons. This book introduces us to a student named David, who has ADHD. He cannot control his “wiggle fidgets” and frequently disrupts the class. While seeking help from adults and experts is an element of Cognitive Regulation, the author presents how David solves his problem. He comes up with a four part plan. The reminder attention cards cue him to focus. The silent timer shows how long he needs to pay attention. The stress ball gives him something to do when he’s super wiggly. Being allowed to move around--which will require the teacher’s awareness and cooperation-- to send him to take papers to the office or another form of “quiet” movement.