Executive Functioning

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
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