Discussions About Self-Control: Building Better Classroom Environments Through Executive Function Instruction

Posted In Discussion On June 16, 2025

Engaging in meaningful discussions about self-control is a powerful way for high school teachers to help students build stronger executive function skills and create more positive learning environments. As educators committed to executive function instruction, we recognize that teaching executive function skills such as self-control is essential to student success, not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well. Self-control includes pausing before acting, resisting impulsive behavior, thinking through consequences, waiting to speak, and stopping when asked. When we help students engage in discussions about self-control, we support student empowerment, self-regulation, and improved student behavior management.

Use the following discussion prompts to guide your students in reflecting on the value of self-control. Each question supports executive function learning and gives students opportunities to strengthen their metacognitive skills and social awareness.

1. How would our classroom improve if everyone used self-control? Why is self-control sometimes difficult?

   Start with this foundational question. It helps students reflect on their own behavior and imagine a more respectful, focused classroom community. Encourage them to name specific improvements, fewer interruptions, more learning time, less conflict, etc. This prompt fosters ownership over classroom dynamics. Students can also identify why practicing self-control is hard, especially when emotions are high or peer pressure is strong. These discussions about self-control make space for vulnerability and honesty while introducing the executive function definition in a relatable context.

2. When has physical activity helped you gain control of your thoughts or actions?

   Self-regulation often begins with physical awareness. Invite students to share examples when movement, like taking a walk, stretching, or playing sports, helped them reset or refocus. This question helps students recognize physical activity as an effective coping tool. It also builds their personal toolkit of strategies to improve academic performance, regulate energy, and manage stress. Embedding this prompt into executive function lessons brings in real-world application and strengthens students’ self-awareness.

3. Have you ever said something hurtful you didn’t mean? What do you wish someone would say to you in a tough moment?

   Help students explore the emotional impact of words. This question opens up a conversation about empathy and emotional control, two essential elements of self-control. Encourage students to reflect on how impulsive words can damage relationships and how choosing words carefully can build trust. These discussions about self-control reinforce the importance of pausing before speaking, and they support students’ social skills and respectful communication habits, both of which are key to solving executive function challenges in a classroom setting.

4. How does it feel when someone interrupts you? How can that feeling help you understand the importance of waiting your turn to speak?

   Interruptions are a common challenge in classrooms, and this prompt helps students understand the impact of being cut off. As students reflect on how frustrating it feels to be interrupted, they gain insight into why practicing patience and respectful listening matters. This is a valuable opportunity to explore and instruct on impulse control and strengthen the students’ ability to engage in thoughtful, productive discussions.

5. How does thinking through consequences help you make better choices?

   Decision-making is at the heart of executive function skills. This question invites students to explore how considering the outcomes of their actions can lead to more thoughtful, strategic behavior. These discussions about self-control support student empowerment by highlighting how planning ahead and weighing consequences are essential to success, not only in school but in life. When students understand the long-term impact of their actions, they are more likely to make responsible choices, improving both behavior and academic outcomes.

By using these five questions to spark discussions about self-control, teachers can guide students in reflecting on their behavior, building empathy, and practicing self-regulation. These conversations lay the groundwork for consistent, developmentally appropriate, and aligned executive function interventions that are guided by real-life experiences.

To continue these important conversations and support your implementation of executive function instruction, explore the following resources:

• More self-control discussion questions for Grades 1–4 and 5-8
• Sign Up for Our Newsletter for free resources, classroom tools, and executive function strategies
• Learn more about our executive function curriculum and how it supports educators in improving student performance