This keynote session presents a dynamic, relationship-based approach to conceptualizing executive function skills. The areas of cognition, language, and social-emotional growth are deeply rooted in children establishing the necessary foundational capacities for learning. A framework that focuses on the roles of self-regulation and essential precursors to emotional development is integral to practicing treatment approaches that are in-tune with current, brain- based research. The intricacies of play therapy will be outlined for participants to examine a child's play perspective and how to acknowledge individual differences within a supportive space. The session will further showcase the immense, evidence-based benefits of play therapy, especially in the areas of working memory, impulse inhibition, and cognitive flexibility. The way in which theory of mind is connected to challenges experienced by neurodivergent populations will further be examined in relation to social understanding and perspective taking.

The impact of skill deficits executive functioning will be described in terms of toxic stressors and how trauma derails and exacerbates health-related outcomes. Reframing underlying challenges will encourage participants to view a behavior dynamically rather than linearly. Supportive strategies will be demonstrated as participants will partake in cooperative problem solving, investigating possible solutions for managing challenging situations across environments. Professionals will have a clear structure on how behaviors could be misperceived and the rationale behind looking at opposition, defiance, and avoidance from a regulation lens. Language scripts will be provided using in the moment examples, showing how the theoretical principles can be successfully applied during any situation.

Polina Shkadron is the founder of Play to Learn Neurodiversity Consulting an established private practice in NY. She holds a MA in speech-language pathology from CUNY Queens College and a MS in nutrition education from American University. As a certified trauma and ADHD professional, Polina supports families in understanding the connection between regulation and development. She educates parents of neurodivergent kids to embrace a strength-based approach rooted in play. Polina shares her expertise as a speaker at prestigious institutions and conferences, including Hudson Valley Professional Development, Molloy University, CHADD, CADDRA, and the Innovative Schools Summit in Atlanta and NYC.