Executive Function: The CEO of Your Child's Brain
Why can't they just put on their shoes? It might not be defianceāit might be executive function. Learn how to build the brain's air traffic control system.
Imagine an air traffic control tower at a busy airport. It has to manage thousands of arrivals and departures, avoid collisions, and handle unexpected storms. That is exactly what Executive Function does for your child's brain.
When a child has a meltdown because their toast is cut wrong, or forgets what you asked them to do 10 seconds ago, their "air traffic controller" is likely overwhelmed.
The 3 Core Skills
Executive function isn't one thing; it's a three-legged stool.
1. Working Memory
The ability to hold information in mind and use it.
Example: Remembering the two instructions you just gave: "Put on your shoes AND get your backpack."
2. Cognitive Flexibility
The ability to switch gears and adapt to change.
Example: Not having a meltdown when you say, "We're out of strawberry jam, would you like grape?"
3. Inhibitory Control
The ability to stop an automatic response (Self-Control).
Example: Not hitting a sibling who took a toy. Waiting for a turn.
Games That Build Better Brains
You don't need worksheets to teach these skills. Classic childhood games are actually rigorous executive function workouts.
Freeze Dance
Builds: Inhibitory Control.
The child has to suppress the urge to keep dancing when the music stops. It requires intense focus and body control.
"I Spy"
Builds: Working Memory.
They have to keep the rule in mind ("Something blue") while scanning the environment and filtering out everything that isn't blue.
Imaginary Play
Builds: Cognitive Flexibility.
"This box is a spaceship." "Now it's a castle." Children constantly negotiate rules and roles during pretend play, which is the ultimate flexibility drill.
Did you know?
Executive function skills are a better predictor of school success than IQ. A child who can listen, wait their turn, and follow instructions is ready to learn anything.
How to Help at Home
- Establish Routines: Predictability reduces the cognitive load on a child's brain, allowing them to practice independence in small steps.
- Break it Down: Instead of "Clean your room," try "Put the legos in the bin." One step at a time.
- Model It: Narrate your own thinking. "I really want to eat this cookie now, but I'm going to wait until after dinner."