Executive Functioning Checklist for Parents
- Monarch
- Oct 24
- 3 min read
Executive functioning is often described as the brain’s “air traffic control system.” Just as air traffic controllers coordinate planes so they don’t collide, executive functions coordinate mental processes so we can focus, make decisions, and reach goals.
These skills include:
Working memory – holding and manipulating information in your mind (like remembering multi-step directions).
Inhibitory control (self-control) – resisting impulses, staying focused, and thinking before acting.
Cognitive flexibility – shifting between tasks, adjusting to changes, or seeing problems from different perspectives.
Planning and organization – setting goals, making plans, and keeping track of materials.
Task initiation – starting tasks without excessive procrastination.
Sustained attention – staying focused long enough to complete work.
Time management – estimating how long tasks will take and meeting deadlines.
Emotional regulation – managing big feelings so they don’t derail thinking or behavior.
Goal-directed persistence – sticking with a task, even when it’s hard or boring.
In short, executive functioning skills are the tools that help children turn intentions into actions.
Executive functioning challenges often show up in everyday routines, homework, and social situations. If you notice several of these patterns in your child—especially if they interfere with school or home life—it may be worth talking with your child’s teacher, pediatrician, or a specialist.
Using This Executive Functioning Checklist
If just a few of these descriptions are true for your child, these might be normal developmental hiccups—remember executive functioning skills develop gradually.
If many of these descriptions are true for your child, especially across multiple areas: Your child may benefit from extra support, strategies, or even an evaluation for ADHD or other learning differences.
🧠 Working Memory
My child forgets multi-step directions unless I repeat them.
They need reminders for chores or routines, even after doing them many times.
They forget what they just read or heard in class.
⏸️ Inhibitory Control (Self-Control)
My child blurts out answers or interrupts conversations.
They have a hard time waiting their turn.
They act before thinking, often leading to accidents or mistakes.
🔄 Cognitive Flexibility
My child melts down when plans change unexpectedly.
They get “stuck” on one way of doing things.
Shifting from one activity to another is very hard for them.
📅 Planning & Organization
My child struggles to keep track of school supplies or homework.
Their backpack, desk, or room is often messy and disorganized.
They forget deadlines or wait until the last minute to start.
🚀 Task Initiation
My child procrastinates even on simple tasks.
They need lots of reminders to begin homework or chores.
They often say, “I’ll do it later” but never get started.
🎯 Sustained Attention
My child gets distracted quickly, even with tasks they can do.
They lose focus midway through assignments.
They daydream or drift off during conversations.
⏰ Time Management
My child underestimates how long tasks will take.
They run out of time on assignments or tests.
They’re often late because they lose track of time.
❤️ Emotional Regulation
My child has big reactions to small problems.
Frustration or disappointment can derail the whole day.
They struggle to calm down once upset.
🏁 Goal-Directed Persistence
My child gives up easily when tasks are challenging.
They don’t stick with long-term projects without lots of adult help.
They get discouraged when things don’t go their way.
This checklist can be brought to your pediatrician or shared with your child's teacher to start a conversation about options for support. These options could include additional support at school, like sitting close to the teacher or a check-in and check-out system to ensure homework and needed materials are going home. Remember: Executive functioning challenges are skills-based, not character flaws. With the right tools, routines, and supports, kids can strengthen these skills over time.
ADHD - Autism - Executive Functioning - Learning Disorders
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