Feasibility and potential benefits of an attention and executive function intervention on metacognition in a mixed pediatric sample.

The term "metacognition" describes thinking about a cognitive phenomenon or, more simply put, thinking about thinking . Metacognition involves using knowledge about one's cognitive processes to change behavior, including monitoring and controlling cognition. Metacognition is vital for learning and is often more difficult for children with neurodevelopmental concerns (e.g. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder [ADHD], Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder [FASD], Autism Spectrum Disorders [ASD]), possibly due to underlying deficits in attention and executive functioning (EF). The present study evaluated a 6- to 8-week cognitive intervention aimed at improving attention and EF and children's metacognitive abilities. Participants included a mixed sample of 50 children ages 6-12 years presenting with attention and/or EF deficits. Children within the active intervention group completed a game-based attention/EF intervention called