Executive Functioning
Executive functioning refers to the “management system” or “supervisory system” of the brain, as it allows us to set, supervise, and achieve our goals. It is an umbrella term for the brain-based skills involving mental control and self-regulation.
These include inhibition (i.e., managing impulses), shifting (i.e., mental flexibility), emotional regulation, task initiation, planning/organization of future task demands, organization of physical materials, working memory (i.e., holding information in mind for the purpose of completing a task), self-monitoring (i.e., monitoring one’s own performance and adjusting/editing as necessary). Individuals with ADHD often exhibit weaknesses in executive functioning as well. They may struggle to effectively plan what, how, and when they will complete tasks.
Contact us to schedule an evaluation.
Resources
Harvard Center on the Developing Child: Executive Function & Self-Regulation
Understood: What is Executive Function?
Video: EF as Your Brain's Control Center
Referrals
Groves Learning Organization - Study Skills Tutoring
See additional referrals under "Common Concerns: ADHD" tab
Books
Late, Lost, and Unprepared: A Parents' Guide to Helping Children with Executive Functioning