Self regulation Quote by Paul Tough
““Tools of the Mind, by contrast, doesn’t focus much on reading and math abilities. Instead, all of its interventions are intended to help children learn a different kind of skill: controlling their impulses, staying focused on the task at hand, avoiding distractions and mental traps, managing their emotions, organizing their thoughts. The founders of Tools of the Mind believe that these skills, which they group together under the rubric self-regulation, will do more to lead to positive outcomes for their students, in first grade and beyond, than the traditional menu of pre-academic skills.””
About This Quote
Source Book: How Children Succeed, Paul Tough, 2012
The quote emphasizes teaching self‑regulation—impulse control, focus, emotional management—over early academic skills for lasting success.
In simple terms: Teach kids self‑control, not just reading and math.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize self‑regulation in early education.
Themes
education
self‑regulation
development
learning
Mood
optimistic
inspirational
Type
educational
practical
When to use this quote
- first‑grade classrooms
- after‑school programs
- parent‑teacher training
- curriculum design
Key Concepts
executive function
attention control
emotional intelligence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can schools balance self‑regulation with academic instruction?
- What evidence shows self‑regulation predicts long‑term success?
A Different Perspective
Self‑regulation alone may not guarantee academic achievement without content knowledge.
