Executive Functioning

Executive functioning is creating a plan, organizing, and initiating work. Our ability to use executive functioning impacts our abilities to organize physical space and materials, manage time, and plan and complete work and assignments. It also affects how we regulate our emotions. Strong executive functioning skills create a foundation for learning and success in life.

Do you get frustrated with your child because they seem to take a long time to complete even the simplest of tasks? Do they seem overwhelmed by tasks and chores, even though they are the same chores every week? Is your child unorganized and losing things all the time? Although it may sometimes feel like they are being lazy and avoiding, they may be lacking executive functioning skills.

There are various tools and strategies that we use to assist students in developing Executive Functioning Strategies. Some examples of strategies we may use to teach these skills are:

- Use of checklists and self-monitoring strategies
- Use of time limits
- Planning and mapping out projects and use of time
- Establishing routines
- Incentivizing students with rewards

Executive Functioning skills help provide a strong foundation for approaching tasks and projects. These skills can include things as simple as a bedtime routine, cleaning a room, or completing a 1-page assignment. It can also be as complex as a long-term school project, studying for a big exam, or applying to high school!