Growing Executive Functioning Skills
Many children struggle with executive functioning. This refers to a set of cognitive processes that enable individuals to plan, organize, initiate, sustain, and complete tasks. It involves the higher-level cognitive skills necessary for goal-directed behavior, problem-solving, decision-making, and self-regulation. Executive functioning skills play a crucial role in children's academic success, social interactions, and overall functioning. Children with ADHD, sensory issues, spectrum disorder and neurodivergence may struggle with executive functioning skills.
The development of executive functioning skills begins in early childhood and continues to mature throughout adolescence and into adulthood. Here are some key components of executive functioning in young children:
Inhibition: The ability to control impulses, resist distractions, and inhibit automatic responses. Children with good inhibition skills can stay focused and resist acting on immediate desires or temptations.
Working Memory: The capacity to hold and manipulate information in mind for short periods. It involves remembering and using relevant information to complete tasks, follow instructions, and solve problems.
Cognitive Flexibility: The ability to switch between different tasks or perspectives, adapt to changing situations, and think creatively. Cognitive flexibility allows children to adjust their thinking strategies when faced with new information or challenges.
Planning and Organization: The capacity to set goals, develop a plan of action, and organize materials or steps required to accomplish a task. This skill involves breaking down complex tasks into manageable parts and creating timelines or schedules.
Time Management: The ability to estimate and allocate time effectively, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines. Children with good time management skills can balance competing demands and allocate appropriate time to different activities.
Emotional Regulation: The capacity to manage and regulate emotions, including frustration, anger, or anxiety. Emotional regulation allows children to stay calm, focused, and flexible in the face of challenges or setbacks. How we model our own ability to self regulate helps teach our child to do the same, over time.
Difficulties with executive functioning can manifest as disorganization, forgetfulness, impulsivity, poor time management, difficulty with planning and prioritization, and problems with problem-solving or decision-making. These challenges can impact academic performance, social interactions, and daily functioning.
It's important to note that executive functioning skills can vary among children, and some may naturally develop these skills earlier or more proficiently than others. However, there are strategies and interventions available to support children's executive functioning development, such as providing structure and routines, keeping order and having organization in different rooms and spaces at home, breaking tasks into smaller steps, using visual aids or reminders, and teaching problem-solving strategies.
If you have concerns about your child's executive functioning skills, consult with your healthcare professional, pediatrician or child psychologist, who can provide a comprehensive assessment and appropriate interventions if needed. Parent coaching can help you parent with more connection , compassion and confidence. I am here to help.
