Tools of the Mind is a play-based program for Preschool or Kindergarten children rooted in the teaching of developmental psychologist Lev Vygotsky and current neuropsycholgical research on self-regulation and executive function. Self-regulated learning, intentional learning and play are encouraged through game-based activities and the incorporation of dramatic play into the curriculum to create a child-centred, developmentally-appropriate learning environment. The program covers all curriculum areas of the classroom including the development of reading, writing, math and scientific observation.

Research shows higher levels of self-regulation, sound-to-symbol matching, and letter recognition in kindergarten children who have participated in the program, compared to control groups. Furthermore, Tools of the Mind is recognized by CASEL as a “SELect” program.