Executive Function Tools
Fostering and Measuring Executive Function
Montessori education supports the development of executive function. To learn more about the importance of strong executive function and how Montessori helps it grow, visit Montessori and Executive Function.
Fostering executive function
The DERS tells you how
The Developmental Environment Rating Scale (DERS) measures the key activities, behaviors, and environmental factors that support executive function, including:
- beautiful, uncluttered classrooms
- free choice among limited options
- respectful interactions with children
- and many more…
You can use the DERS in any classroom, Montessori or not, to measure, track, and improve the inputs that support wide-scope development. Learn more in this video from NCMPS:
Measuring executive function
The MEFS tells you how you're doing
The Minnesota Executive Function Scale (MEFS) from Reflection Sciences is the academic standard for measuring executive function in children from ages two through eighteen.
Built into an easy to use app, the MEFS takes just minutes to administer and can be used to track children’s development over time in essential executive function skills.
Learn more about the MEFS in this video from Reflection Sciences:
Get the Tools
Get the DERS
DERS is used by a trained observer to assess a whole classroom, and pricing is per user:
- DERS Training and Certification, including the first year of use: $435
- DERS Subscription per year after the first year: $130
- DERS Orientation—overview and orientation for teachers and assistants: $95 per person
Get the MEFS
MEFS assess one child at a time, and pricing is per child—about $15 per child per year. Reflection Sciences will develop a complete package for your school, which may include professional development and other services.
Use Them Together
- Current MEFS users are eligible for 10% off a DERS package and annual renewals.
- Current DERS users are eligible for 10% off a MEFS package and annual renewals
