Executive Functioning and self-regulation skills are the mental processes that enable us to plan, focus attention,
rember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks successfully. Just as an air traffic control system at a busy airport safely manages the arrivals and departures of a many aircrafts on multiple runways, the brain needs this skill set to filter distractions, prioritize tasks, set/achieve goals, and control impulses.
Here are some tips to help your child with improving their executive functioning:
- Plan for your day/week/month in advance - have your child utilize a planner.
- Stay organized - this includes your child's backpack and school work and bedroom at home.
- Set aside a specific time and place to study.
- Time management - using time wisely, understanding how long a specific project may take.
- Planning projects - have your child plan a dinner from start to finish including a grocery list and meal preparation.
- Perseverance - you can help your child search for ways to overcome burnout, roadblocks, and help remind them of their goals.
- Play board games - this is a fun way kids can practice skills such as planning and time management without even realizing that is helping their executive function!
- Goal Setting - help your child set a goal that they are invested in and together monitor their progress and reflect about what did and did not work.
- Riddles - they are great brain exercise.
- Manage anger and impulse - deep breathing, calming thoughts, problem solving.
A Guide to Executive Functioning (Harvard University)
Enhancing and Practicing Executive Functioning Skills with Children from Infancy to Adolescence
Age Specific Activities Guide for Executive Functioning Skills