Executive Functioning in Children & Teens

What is executive functioning? Executive functioning includes cognitive skills such as task initiation, time management, organization, emotional control, goal-directed persistence, sustained attention, flexibility, and self-control. Simply put, executive functioning is a set of mental skills required to be successful and productive in daily life. These processes develop slowly over time, but with practice, they can be dramatically improved. Simple classroom accommodations and strategies can benefit all students as they learn how to manage themselves and their environment. 

How do we identify an executive function weakness? We look for signs such as poor time management, inattentiveness, inability to keep track of assignments and assessments, and difficulty retaining information. These are just a few indicators, but it is important to note that these weaknesses must be consistent and persist over time. We all have days when we’re not firing on all cylinders, but it does not mean we have an executive function disorder. 

How do we strengthen executive functioning? One of our goals in the LEC is to strengthen executive function skills through the use of games, activities, and targeted exercises. If a student in first grade cannot follow routines despite multiple reminders, has trouble cleaning up supplies, or struggles to move to the next activity, there are many possible solutions. Visual cues are very effective; we sit with the student and the teacher to identify routines, and we choose an accompanying picture to remind the student of what needs to be done throughout the course of the day. These reminders are displayed on desks, in cubbies, or attached to backpacks. 

Middle and Upper School students require a more developed set of executive function skills. Transitioning from class to class, keeping up with assignments, and preparing for assessments are the most common challenges. Sessions in the LEC help students determine what organizational system works best, giving the students the opportunity to identify their specific learning styles. Study habits that complement learning styles are critical to students’ achievement. If a student is an auditory learner, we suggest listening to audiobooks or recording lectures at school so the student can go back and reference material covered earlier in the day. 

Strategies used in the LEC are communicated to the student’s teacher for consistency and reinforcement, and this partnership makes all the difference. 

At-home tips! If your child is struggling in similar ways, here are five things you can partner with your student at home:

Lastly, know when to seek additional support for your child. While these at-home tips can be helpful, it’s also important to recognize when your child may need outside support, and this is where sessions with trained LEC staff can be beneficial. For children and teens who have an executive functioning disorder, consistent help and support both in school and at home may have the most positive and lasting impact. If you want to learn more about the LEC, please click here or contact Director of Learning Services Laurissa Ecker-Berkman at leckerberkman@davidsonday.org.