Every parent wants their child to thrive. But what happens when a child struggles with organizing tasks or following instructions? Enter “executive function,” a term that probably didn’t feature in your parenting handbooks. Executive function is the cognitive skills that help us control our thoughts and actions. It’s the thinking cap of the brain. While every kiddo develops these abilities quickly, some may need a little leg up. That’s where an executive function test can be helpful. But don’t sweat it just yet – we’ve got a Goally quiz ready at the end of this blog to ease into this journey.
Table of Contents
Understanding Executive Function
Starting with the basics, the executive function is like the command center of our brains, responsible for a broad batch of tasks. For instance, self-regulation, time management, and emotional control are part and parcel of it. For our kiddos, it’s all about helping them grow into their best, most capable selves.
Why Do Kids Struggle with Executive Function?
A myriad of causes can contribute to a child’s EF struggles. Most notably, it is associated with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). However, kids with thinking and learning differences, or neurodivergent kids, can also show signs of EF challenges.
The Six Essential Skills
The bigger picture of executive function breaks down into six specific skills:
- Impulse control: Can your child wait their turn without having a meltdown? That’s impulse control.
- Emotional control: Does your little star manage tantrums well? If so, they’re mastering emotional control.
- Flexible thinking: Can your child adapt to new rules in a game without tears? That’s flexible thinking.
- Working memory: Can your tiny scholar remember and follow a set of instructions? This is part of working memory.
- Self-monitoring: Does your young one keep an eye on their behavior? Bravo, they are self-monitoring.
- Planning and prioritizing: Can your kiddo figure out what homework to do first? If so, they’re getting the hang of planning and prioritizing.
Read more: How To Improve Executive Function: The Ultimate Guide
Recognizing Executive Function Struggles
Understanding EF challenges is the first step to supporting your child. Let’s look at some of the common signs:
- Difficulty in starting and completing tasks
- Struggles with following instructions
- Organizational challenges
- Trouble with time management
- Sudden emotional outbursts
- Challenges in switching tasks
Role of Executive Function in Kids with Special Needs
Executive function skills are like unsung heroes – they work diligently behind the scenes, and their absence is often more noticeable than their presence. Kids with special needs, neurodivergent kids, or kids with thinking and learning differences may face reinforcement challenges in these areas, making everyday tasks more complicated than they need to be.
Goally’s Executive Function Test
Goally’s interactive quiz can be a friendly curtain-raiser to this testing world. Developed with expert insights, this user-friendly quiz can help parents understand more about their child’s executive function.
Getting the Help They Need
Identifying potential executive function difficulties can assist parents in getting the right tools and strategies to help their kids. Testing executive function can be comprehensive, involving observations, questionnaires, and standardized tests. However, it’s just a part of assessing a child’s capabilities – not a one-stop solution.
Read more: How to Help Kids Develop Executive Functioning Skills at Home
Goally | Apps To Structure Your Kiddo’s Routine
Does your child struggle with transitions or staying on task? Goally’s visual schedule app breaks down large tasks into small, achievable steps. It helps kids complete their tasks independently!
Create custom routines with your own videos & pictures for every step. The steps come in small, bite-sized pieces to help your child learn the little fundamentals (like putting the toothpaste on their toothbrush!) to achieve bigger goals. And that’s just the beginning.
In Conclusion
Getting to the heart of your child’s executive function skills can bring you one step closer to helping them shine. Whether finding the right balance between discipline and freedom, integrating routine, or celebrating small victories, every bit counts. Remember, it’s not about ‘fixing’ your child but empowering them to be their best version. After you’ve aced the insider’s guide to executive function, why not take our Goally quiz? Armed with knowledge and the right tools, like Goally’s Skill Building Tablet, our magnificent parents can help their kiddos reach their true potential. In short, better days lie ahead as you navigate the world of executive function together!
Hennah is an experienced writer and researcher, helping children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. As a blog contributor for Goally, she combines her deep understanding of neurodiversity with practical advice, offering valuable insights to parents and educators.
