Executive Functions
Who requires executive function support?
Executive Functions (EFs) are a set of cognitive skills that help us to be successful in completing everyday tasks. EFs help us to set goals, plan, and get things done! EFs develop throughout childhood and into adolescence/early adulthood. Children who struggle with EFs may have difficulties with paying attention, organizing their belongings, finishing tasks, and controlling their emotions, to name a few. Children with ADHD and other neurotypes often benefit from a coaching therapy model to develop their EF skills.
What treatment may include?
OT sessions for EFs are strength-based and designed to help a child learn about their brain, develop EF skills, and problem solve specific tasks that are challenging for them.
Sessions may include:
Play based activities or board games to target specific executive function skills
Psychoeducation to the child and parent/guardian(s) about their brain
Collaborative problem solving for daily challenges that arise such as: developing a morning routine or strategies to manage the rotary system at school
Support with developing self regulation and social communication skills
Academic support such as: strategies to support writing, using assistive technology, organization skills
Why OT?
Occupational Therapists are experts at helping individuals engage in meaningful “occupations” (everyday tasks) through their understanding of the interaction between a person’s skills, the environment and the task at hand. As such, OTs are able to help children and teens with developing their EF skills, while also considering how to adapt the task and the environment to help them be more successful at home, at school, and in the community.