Executive Functions: What is it?

A Morning Like No Other

Sarah was running late... again. Her son, Ethan, was frantically searching for his homework while still in his pyjamas. His schoolbag was half-packed, and his breakfast sat untouched on the table. As the minutes ticked by, Sarah felt the familiar frustration bubbling up. "Why can’t he just get ready on time?" she thought. But what if Ethan wasn’t just being forgetful or careless? What if he was struggling with something deeper... something called executive functions?

If your child faces similar challenges such as forgetting assignments, struggling with time management, or getting easily overwhelmed, then keep reading! Executive functions skills are the brain’s command centre, and when they don’t develop properly, everyday tasks can feel 100 times harder.

1. What are Executive Functions?

   Executive Functions refer to a set of mental skills that help us manage time, pay attention, switch focus, plan, organise and remember details. Think of it as the brain’s “control panel” guiding us through daily tasks and responsibilities.

   Key executive functions include:

   1. Planning & Organisation – Knowing what to do and when to do it

   2. Time Management – Estimating time accurately and prioritising tasks

   3. Working Memory – Holding information in mind to complete tasks

   4. Cognitive Flexibility - The ability to adapt your thinking and behaviour to new situations. It's the opposite of rigid thinking.

   5. Self-Monitoring – Recognising mistakes and adjusting behaviour accordingly

   

   Even simple tasks like getting ready for school or completing homework can feel overwhelming if these skills aren't well developed.

   
   

2. How Executive Functions Develops in the Brain

   The prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for executive functions, is like the CEO of our mind. It helps us make decisions, stay focused, and regulate emotions. The stronger the connections between different parts of the brain, the better executive functions work. But these connections don’t develop overnight; they require practice and reinforcement.

3. The Hidden Enemy: The Impact of Screens

   Modern distractions, especially social media, can negatively impact the development of executive function. Studies show that excessive screen time can:

   1. ❌ Reduce attention span

   2. ❌ Weaken memory retention

   3. ❌ Increase impulsivity

   4. ❌ Impair decision-making skills

   If your child is troubled by the lack of focus, consider limiting screen time and encouraging activities that strengthen executive functions instead.

4. Strengthening Executive Functioning: Practical Strategies

   So, what can you do to support your child’s executive functions? Here are some simple yet powerful strategies:

   1. Break Tasks into Steps – Instead of saying, “Clean your room,” try, “First, pick up your toys. Then, put your clothes in the hamper.”

   2. Use Visual Schedules – A checklist or calendar helps children stay on track.

   3. Set Time Limits – Use a timer to encourage focus and prevent procrastination.

   4. Encourage Self-Reflection – At the end of the day, ask, “What went well today? What could you do differently tomorrow?”

   5. Make It a Game – Turn daily routines into challenges (e.g., “Can you brush your teeth before the timer runs out?”).

5. The “Mental GPS” Technique

   Think of executive function skills as a mental GPS. This internal system helps children plan their route, adjust when faced with obstacles, and stay on track toward their goals. If your child struggles with executive functions, their mental GPS may need recalibrating.

   
   

   Try these approaches:

   1. Externalise Information – Write reminders, use post-it notes, or set alarms.

   2. Encourage Mindful Breaks – Short pauses between tasks improve focus.

   3. Use “If-Then” Statements – “If you finish your homework, then your can play outside.”

6. Building Resilience: Teaching Flexible Thinking

   Children with poor executive functions often struggle with cognitive flexibility, meaning they get stuck when plans change.

   
   

   Try this fun activity to encourage flexible thinking: Yes, And… Game – Start a story, and each person must continue it using “Yes, and…” instead of “Yes, but…”. This helps kids learn to adapt and think creatively. It draws the kids away from rigid thinking because the kids are not limited by doubts or contradictions and instead are focused on driving the story forward to achieve their goal.

   
   

   By practising flexible thinking, children become more adaptable and better problem-solvers in real life.

How Total Communication Can Help

If your child struggles with organisation, focus, or emotional regulation, you’re not alone. At Total Communication, our therapists use evidence-based strategies to strengthen executive functions empowering children to become more independent and navigate life with ease and confidence.

Want to learn more? Get in touch with us today and discover how we can support your child’s journey to independence!

Helping your child develop executive functioning skills isn’t about fixing weaknesses, it’s about equipping them with the tools to succeed. With the right strategies and support, they can master their mind and take control of their future.