Top 3 Ways to Help your Child Improve their Executive Functioning Skills

This blog post was written by Kindred co-founder Josh Cooper.

Improving executive functioning skills in children is crucial for their academic success, social development, and overall well-being. Here are the top three ways to help your child improve their executive functioning skills:

1. Provide Structure and Routine:

   • Establish consistent routines and schedules for daily activities, including homework, chores, meals, and bedtime. Routines provide predictability and help children develop a sense of organization and time management.

   • Use visual aids, such as calendars, checklists, or visual schedules, to help your child understand and follow routines. Visual supports can enhance organization, planning, and task management skills.

   • Break tasks and activities into manageable steps, and guide your child through the process of planning and sequencing actions. Teach them how to set goals, prioritize tasks, and allocate time effectively.

2. Teach Self-Regulation and Problem-Solving Skills:

   • Teach your child strategies for self-regulation and emotional control, such as deep breathing, mindfulness techniques, and positive self-talk. Help them recognize and manage their emotions in various situations.

   • Encourage problem-solving skills by presenting real-life challenges and helping your child brainstorm solutions. Guide them through the process of evaluating different options, considering consequences, and making informed decisions.

   • Foster flexibility and adaptability by exposing your child to new experiences, changes in routines, and unexpected situations. Encourage them to approach challenges with a growth mindset and view setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth.

3. Promote Metacognition and Self-Awareness:

   • Help your child develop metacognitive skills by encouraging reflection and self-awareness. Prompt them to think about their own thinking processes, monitor their progress, and evaluate their performance.

   • Model metacognitive strategies by verbalizing your own thought processes and problem-solving approaches. Demonstrate how to break down tasks, set goals, and adjust strategies based on feedback and outcomes.

   • Encourage your child to set personal goals and monitor their progress towards achieving them. Teach them how to self-assess their strengths and areas for improvement, and celebrate their successes along the way.

By focusing on these key areas and providing consistent support and guidance, you can help your child develop and strengthen their executive functioning skills, enabling them to navigate daily challenges more effectively and achieve greater success in school and life.