What Is Executive Function In Children?
Executive function (EF) is a critical set of skills that help children manage their thoughts, emotions and behavior. EF skills allow children to plan and execute tasks, stay on task, keep track of information, and inhibit impulsive behaviors.
EF skills are important for success in school and in life. Poor EF skills can lead to problems such as difficulty completing homework assignments, trouble following instructions, and impulsively blurting out answers in class.
EF skills can be improved through targeted interventions and practice. Parents can help their children develop EF skills by providing structure, clear expectations, and regular feedback.
What are some specific executive function skills?
Some specific executive function skills include:
-Task initiation: The ability to begin and complete tasks.
-Time management: The ability to plan and track time spent on tasks.
-Goal setting: The ability to identify and achieve goals.
-Organization: The ability to keep track of materials and tasks.
-Flexibility: The ability to adapt to changing situations.
-Self-control: The ability to inhibit impulsive behaviors.
What can parents do to help their children develop executive function skills?
There are many things that parents can do to help their children develop executive function skills. Some tips include:
-Providing structure and clear expectations: Children with poor EF skills need structure and clear expectations in order to stay on task. Parents can help by creating routines for homework and chores, and providing regular feedback on tasks.
-Helping children set goals: Children with poor EF skills often have difficulty staying motivated. Helping children set and achieve small goals can help them stay focused and motivated.
-Encouraging organization: Children with poor EF skills often lose track of materials and tasks. Parents can help by providing organizational tools such as folders, checklists, and calendars.
-Encouraging flexibility: Children with poor EF skills often find it difficult to adapt to changing situations. Parents can help by modeling flexibility and providing opportunities for children to experience a variety of situations.
-Teaching self-control: Children with poor EF skills often have difficulty inhibiting impulsive behaviors. Parents can help by teaching children how to pause before responding and how to manage strong emotions.
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