Examine of the correlation between adjustment to school and executive functi̇on skills of first grade students from primary school

This study was conducted to examine the relationship between school adjustment and executive function skills of first-grade primary school students. A descriptive survey method was used in the research. The study group consisted of 561 first-grade primary school students in Tokat province, selected on a voluntary basis. To collect research data, the "Demographic Information Form," which includes students' demographic information, the "School Adjustment Scale for Primary School Students" for information on students' school adjustment, and the "Childhood Executive Function Inventory (CHEXI)" for information on students' executive functions were used. The analysis of the data showed significant differences in favor of female students in the preventive control sub-dimensions of school adjustment and executive functions. However, it was observed that students' school adjustment and executive function scores did not show a significant difference based on age, and that preschool education, in general, did not affect school adjustment. Nevertheless, students who attended state-run preschool institutions had higher adjustment scores compared to those who attended other preschool institutions or did not receive preschool education. Additionally, it was found that as mothers' education levels increased, children's school adjustment and executive function skills also improved. The results of the study revealed that the executive functions of first-grade primary school students who received preschool education explained their school adjustment scores at a higher rate compared to those who did not receive preschool education. Based on these findings, it was recommended that school adjustment and executive functions be investigated both in terms of different variables and longitudinally. Furthermore, it was suggested that training sessions be organized for teachers to emphasize the importance of school adjustment and executive function skills in preschool education, and that preschool education should only be provided by institutions affiliated with the Ministry of National Education.