When I first heard the words “executive function,” I didn’t know what it meant. But as a parent, I soon learned how important it is. Executive function is how the brain helps us plan, focus, and remember things. It also helps us control our actions. Kids who have strong executive function skills can follow rules, stay calm, and finish tasks. I wanted to help my child build these skills, and I found some simple ways to do it.
What Are Executive Function Skills?
Executive function is like the boss of the brain. It helps us think before we act. It helps us keep trying even when things are hard. Kids use it when they clean their room, do homework, or wait their turn. There are three main parts: working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control.
Working memory means remembering information for a short time. Flexible thinking means switching from one idea to another. Self-control means stopping yourself from doing something you shouldn’t.
Why These Skills Matter So Much
I noticed that when my child struggled with these skills, things got tough. She forgot homework. She got mad quickly. She couldn’t stay on task. That’s when I learned that kids who have strong executive function skills do better in school. They also have better behavior and stronger friendships.
In today’s world, being able to focus and manage time is very important. These skills help kids in school and even later when they get jobs. Kids who can plan and stay calm are more likely to succeed. As a parent, I want to give my child the best chance to do well. That’s why I started working on executive function at home.
Daily Life Skills That Help
I didn’t need fancy tools or apps. I started with simple things. We made a morning routine. She would brush her teeth, get dressed, and pack her bag. Every day, we did it the same way. This helped her remember the steps without getting upset.
I also gave her small tasks. I asked her to set the table or match socks. These jobs made her use memory and focus. I praised her when she did it right, and I stayed calm when she made mistakes. I learned that practice is the best way to help kids grow these skills.
Using Games to Build Skills
Playing games was another big help. I found that card games like “Uno” or “Go Fish” made her think and remember. Board games like “Memory” or “Simon Says” also helped with focus and self-control.
Even simple games like “Red Light, Green Light” taught her to wait and think before moving. We didn’t need a screen or a tablet. Just spending time together and playing helped a lot. It was fun, and it made a difference.
How Emotions Affect Thinking
One day, my child had a meltdown over a puzzle. She wanted to finish it but got too upset. I realized that emotions can block thinking. When kids are mad or sad, they can’t use their brain’s boss part well.
So, we started learning ways to calm down. I taught her to take deep breaths. We also took short breaks when things felt too hard. Over time, she learned how to stay cool and keep trying. This helped her build stronger executive function skills.
Helping Kids Plan Ahead
Planning ahead was another skill we worked on. At first, my child wanted to do everything now and never later. So, we started using a simple calendar. I showed her what we would do each day. I asked her to help plan meals or pick clothes for school.
I saw her start to think ahead. She would say, “Tomorrow is gym day. I need sneakers.” That small step showed me she was learning to plan. We also talked about goals, like reading a book or saving for a toy. She learned that planning helps dreams come true.
Limiting Distractions at Home
Our home had a lot of noise. The TV was on, phones were buzzing, and it was hard to focus. So, we made small changes. We turned off the TV during homework. We put phones away for quiet time. We made a clean space for reading or drawing.
These changes helped her pay attention. She stopped jumping from one thing to another. I learned that a calm space can help a busy mind stay on track. It’s not always perfect, but it makes a big difference.
Getting Support From Teachers
I also talked to her teachers. They gave me ideas on how to help at home. They told me how she acted in class. Some teachers used timers, charts, or breaks to help her stay focused. I used some of the same ideas at home.
We made a “to-do” list and crossed off tasks. We also set a timer for hard jobs. These tools helped her see her progress. She felt proud when she finished a task. That pride made her want to keep going.
Sleep, Food, and Exercise Matter Too
One thing I didn’t think about at first was her health. But I noticed that when she slept well, she could focus better. When she ate good food, she had more energy. When she ran around outside, she was calmer.
So, we made bedtime earlier. We gave her healthy snacks like fruit and nuts. We also went for walks and played outside. All these things helped her brain work better. A strong body helps build a strong mind.
Staying Patient as a Parent
This journey is not easy. Some days, it feels like nothing is working. But I remind myself that it takes time. Kids grow at their own pace. I try to stay patient and give lots of love.
I’ve learned that every child is different. What works for one may not work for another. The most important thing is to keep trying and to keep believing in your child. That belief gives them the power to believe in themselves too.
Supporting a Child’s Bright Future
Helping my child build executive function skills has changed everything. She can now plan her day, stay calm, and finish her work. She still has tough moments, but she’s learning. Every small step matters.
When we support our kids with love, patience, and practice, we give them the tools to shine. These skills are not just for school — they’re for life. I’m glad I started this journey, and I hope every parent will take it too.
