What are cognitive abilities?

Cognitive abilities are the tools your brain uses to think, learn, and solve problems.

Imagine your brain is like a toolbox. Inside that toolbox are different tools, each one helps you do something special. For example, when you’re playing with blocks, you're using a tool called problem-solving, and when you remember where your favorite toy is, you're using memory. These tools work together so you can learn new things, figure out what went wrong, and even daydream about being a superhero.

Think of your brain like a playground. Some parts of the playground are for running (like when you’re counting steps), some are for building forts (like when you're putting puzzle pieces together), and others are for remembering where you left your snack (that’s memory again!). All these parts work together so you can play, learn, and grow.

Every time you solve a riddle, draw a picture, or even say "hello" to your friend, you’re using your cognitive abilities, just like you use your hands and feet every day.