what is executive function

Executive Function
Defined:

Executive Function is the set of mental skills that is used to manage our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to achieve goals. Specifically, Executive Function skills help us work towards goals designed FOR ourselves, BY ourselves.

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ExQ Executive Function

Executive Function in the Everyday

Executive Function affects every part of our everyday lives, including our sense of self, our performance, and social interactions. Here’s a day-in-the-life of a healthy EF ecosystem…

The Parent

  • More constructive quality time and open conversation with your child
  • More clarity into their inner-world, including their perspective on their own strengths and weaknesses
  • Greater harmony at home and within the family dynamic as your child gains more confidence and sense of self
  • ​​Increased communication opportunities about shared goals and values
  • Stronger resilience to tackle issues and challenges resulting from your child’s enhanced self-awareness
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The Student

  • Putting your backpack in the same place when you come home from school
  • Writing your “to do” list each night before your start your homework
  • Keeping a calendar of project deadlines and steps along the way
  • Removing clutter and distractions from your area while you work
  • Remembering to put your books and supplies in your backpack

The Teacher

  • More attentive and engaged learners in the classroom
  • Less disruptive behaviors in groups due to enhanced self-control of individual students
  • More self-directed learners who are able to followthrough with directions and meet implicit expectations
  • Increased quality of one-to-one student instruction as students are able to advocate for themselves and seek help for personal challenges
  • ​Greater opportunity for increased conversation about academic goals as well as overarching learning goals
  • More time spent teaching due to less time spent managing behavioral issues
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BLOG: Executive Function in Everyday Life!

By Sucheta Kamath, MA, CCC-SLP

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