Created by educational experts
Did you know that by the age five, 90% of a child’s neural pathways are fully developed?
But if these neural pathways aren’t regularly used they get removed. This process is called ‘pruning’.
It’s essential that young children are exposed to high-quality stimulation before pruning happens - and play-based learning works best!
Scientists have discovered that it takes approximately 400 repetitions to create a new synapse in the brain - unless it is done through play. Then it takes only 10-20 repetitions!
Why Ages 3 to 5?
Age 3 to 5 is the golden period for brain stimulation.
This is the best time to build and strengthen the neural pathways in the human brain. The more our brains learn at this time, the better equipped we are to keep learning in the future. It is also a high predictor of success later in life.
Neural pathways that have been stimulated grow thicker and process information faster. When these pathways aren’t developed or aren’t adequately stimulated, they die away in a process called ‘pruning.’
Did you know?
Finding Thabo is one of South Africa’s only Early Childhood Development (ECD) focused on developing executive function?
Our Mission
Without strong cognitive foundations, children struggle to master more complex skills later in their academic journey.
Which is why we’re working hard to reach those in under-resourced communities.
Do you know about Executive Function?
Executive function is like the air traffic control system of the brain, coordinating thoughts, emotions and behaviours.
Harvard University identifies three key components of executive function:
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Working Memory
The ability to retain and manipulate information over short periods of time.
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Self-Control
The capacity to resist impulses and prioritise tasks.
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Mental Flexibility
The ability to adapt to changing situations, think creatively, and solve problems.
Do you know about Executive Function?
These skills are vital for young children because they form the foundation for helping them to focus better, follow instructions, get things done, practise better impulse control and persevere through challenges.
There are many opportunities to exercise a child’s executive function skills throughout the Finding Thabo picture series. It helps our little superheroes develop emotional intelligence and critical thinking skills.
How We Tick the Boxes
Finding Thabo provides holistic stimulation across all the early learning development areas (ELDAs) according to the national curriculum framework (NCF), with a particular focus on introducing early mathematics and literacy concepts, and building executive function.
“The magic of “Finding Thabo” is how it reflects children’s everyday experiences, making learning feel familiar and exciting. It’s packed with creative activities that not only teach but also inspire. Teachers love how practical it is, and children love how fun it is – it’s a win-win!”
–GrowECD