Executive function (EF) is the skill set that allows us to plan, prioritize, and get work done. We rely on executive functioning to help pay attention, hold information, and complete a sequence of activities. Without strong executive function skills, it can make the details of day to day life, especially school and work, difficult to get through.
When a child’s EF system is compromised, this can affect personal relationships, task management, and self regulation (impulse control) to name a few.
At school, a student’s ability to reason, pay attention, make decisions, complete a series of tasks, organize work, and problem solve are affected by poor EF skills.
If you suspect your child has weak EF skills, here are some things to look for:
- Trouble staying organized
- Missing deadlines
- Poor impulse control
- Inability to manage time
- Not able to multitask
- Unable to plan ahead
- Frequently losing items
- Forgetting details
Do any of these sound like your child? If so, he might have weak executive function skills.
The good news is that these skills can be strengthened with practice and support.They might never be perfect and may require that he work to strengthen his EF skills for the rest of his life, but nevertheless, it is not an insurmountable task.