Unlocking Executive Functioning
UNLOCKING YOUR CHILD’S POTENTIAL
By Tiffany Espinoza
Why Executive Functioning is Essential for Kids
Executive functioning acts as your child’s brain’s control center, guiding learning, behavior, and daily routines effectively.
Up to 58% of elementary students struggle with executive functioning skills, impacting their learning and daily activities.
Key Statistic About Executive Functioning
58%
What is Executive Functioning?
The CEO of the brain
The set of mental skills or processes that allow us to use our intelligence and problem-solving abilities to help us work toward achieving our goals.
Executive Functions include:
• Initiation/activation
• Focus/paying attention
• Following multiple steps to complete a task
• Organizing, planning, and prioritizing
• Effort
• Self-monitoring
• Emotional control
WHAT EXECUTIVE FUNCTION ISN’T
Helps kids hold info in mind for tasks.
Working Memory
Assists kids in managing impulses and distractions.
Inhibitory Control
Enables kids to adapt and switch tasks smoothly.
Cognitive Flexibility
The Three Core Executive Functions
Working Memory in Action
Inhibitory Control in Action
Cognitive Flexibility in Action
Executive Function Challenges
WHAT DO EXECUTIVE FUNCTION DIFFICULTIES LOOK LIKE AT HOME?
Initiation: Trouble getting started; procrastination
Follow‑Through: Tasks started but left unfinished
Organization: Clutter; difficulty keeping track of belongings
Time Management: “Time blindness,” inconsistent routines
Working Memory: Forgets steps, instructions, or why they entered a room
Emotional Regulation: Easily overwhelmed or frustrated
Impulse Control: Interrupting, impulsive purchases, sudden task switching
Prioritizing: Unsure where to start; focuses on low‑priority tasks
Overload: Avoids overwhelming tasks; may shut down in chaos
Common Home Examples:
Messy bedroom despite desire to be tidy
Needs multiple reminders for chores
Half‑finished cleaning or organizing
WHAT DO EXECUTIVE FUNCTION DIFFICULTIES LOOK LIKE AT SCHOOL?
Executive Function Difficulties at School
Initiation: Difficulty starting classwork, especially writing tasks
Sustained Attention: Drifts off, distracted by peers or environment
Working Memory: Forgets multi-step directions or assignment details
Organization: Disorganized desk/backpack; missing materials
Time Management: Struggles to finish work within time limits
Planning: Trouble breaking down large assignments or projects
Flexibility: Upset by changes in routine; rigid thinking
Self-Monitoring: Doesn’t notice errors; unaware of time passing
Emotional Regulation: Overreacts to small frustrations; shutdowns
Common School Examples:
Missing homework or incomplete classwork
Difficulty copying from board or transitioning between activities
Needs repeated redirection
Avoids complex tasks (writing, multi-step math)
Daily routines provide structure and predictability.
Establish Routines
Visual aids help children understand their tasks.
Use Visual Schedules
Teach kids to complete tasks on their own.
Encourage Independence
Supporting Routines at Home
Modeling calm coping strategies teaches children how to manage frustration and emotions effectively.
Emotional Self-Regulation
Create a quiet workspace for homework time.
Minimize Distractions
Help kids manage time with visual timers.
Use Timers
Divide big tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
Break Down Tasks
Supporting Focus & Attention
Kids practice changing plans during fun activities.
Adaptation
Games like Simon Says boost flexible thinking skills.
Shifting Rules
Kids learn to discuss challenges and solutions.
Brainstorming
Supporting Flexibility & Problem Solving
Developmental Milestones
Ages 5-7
Ages 8-10
Ages 5-7
Ages 8-10
Basic working memory skills start to emerge.
Increased cognitive flexibility and planning abilities develop.
Impulse control begins to improve in daily activities.
Children learn to adapt and manage transitions better.
Executive functions help kids learn effectively.
Brain Skills
Parents can nurture these skills at home.
Parental Support
Simple actions lead to significant improvements.
Small Steps
Summary of Key Takeaways
Questions & Resources
Thank you for joining our presentation!
Understood.org
Offers articles, tips, and easy-to-follow strategies for kids with EF challenges.
https://www.theexecutivefunctionproject.com/resources
Child Mind Institute
Guides for emotional regulation, organization, routines, and flexible thinking.
https://childmind.org/topics/executive-functions/