Executive function describes the thinking skills behind how people self-regulate, prioritize, plan, start, and pay attention to tasks. The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University explains that these skills develop over time and are important for learning and daily life. We often describe this system to children, and to adults, as the “boss” of our brain. The boss tells our brain what to do, how to do it, when to start, and what not to do.
What Children With Executive Functioning Difficulties Experience
Impulse Control
Everyone has impulsive thoughts and things they want to do. As we mature, we learn to weigh our impulses against specific situations and decide whether a behavior is acceptable. Before we act, we consider our goals, the social setting, and the outcome of our actions. Children with executive functioning difficulties may find it harder to stop that impulse to act.
When this happens, it can be hard for kids to do the following:
- Predict the outcome of a behavior.
- Hold back strong thoughts or emotions.
- Understand the social impact of what they do.
Task Completion
Completing a task relies on many executive functioning processes at once. We have to find the motivation to start, plan the steps, organize materials, stay focused, keep track of time, and check our own work to make sure we’re doing the task the way we intend. If a child has a breakdown in any of these areas, they will likely struggle to finish tasks. This can show up as difficulty with morning or nightly routines, getting ready for sporting events, completing regular chores, or finishing homework.
Memory
We hold information in our “working memory,” a process separate from short-term and long-term memory. In working memory, we manipulate information, consider options, and make decisions. From there, our brains sort that information into short-term or long-term memory. Difficulty with working memory is a common sign of executive functioning difficulties, and it can show up in many ways. For example, children may lose or misplace items more often, produce work that looks “messy,” or lose their place while completing tasks or reading. They may also process information incorrectly because they “lose” earlier parts of it along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is executive functioning difficulty the same as ADHD?
No, although they can overlap. Executive functioning difficulties describe challenges with skills like planning, memory, and self-control, and they can show up with or without other diagnoses. If you’re concerned about attention, your child’s doctor or a psychologist can help you decide whether further testing makes sense.
At what age do executive functioning skills develop?
These skills begin developing in early childhood and keep growing through the teen years and into adulthood. Because every child develops at their own pace, it helps to look at whether your child’s skills are getting in the way of school or daily routines.
How can I tell if my child needs help?
Look for patterns that happen often and get in the way, such as trouble finishing homework, frequently losing things, or difficulty with routines. If you notice these patterns, an evaluation can help you understand what’s behind them.
How ETLC Can Help
Executive functioning difficulties can feel frustrating for children and parents, and you don’t have to sort them out alone. If your child struggles with executive functioning, our team is here to help. Our speech-language pathologists evaluate a child’s language skills and structure tasks to identify specific challenges with executive functioning. Your speech-language pathologist might also recommend further psychological testing to rule out or consider attention-based difficulties like ADHD. Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center has locations in Johnston and North Liberty, IA, with virtual services also available.
Learn more about executive functioning support at ETLC or schedule a free consultation to talk with a member of our team.
You may also find these pages helpful:
- What Is Executive Functioning?
- Games for Executive Functioning: Fun Ideas by Age
- Support Executive Function While Reading: 3 Ways
About the Author
Sonia Strueby, M.A., CCC-SLP, is the founder of Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center. With over 25 years of experience as a speech-language pathologist, Sonia has dedicated her career to helping children overcome complex communication and academic challenges. She has advanced training and a special focus on treating dyslexia and childhood apraxia of speech, and she is passionate about providing families with a clear path to success.
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