Executive Functions for Parents And Kids
Executive functions explained in a relatable way
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Knowledge is compassion
As parents of neurodiverse children, it’s our responsibility to understand what reasonable expectations might be for our children. Children with asynchronous development may need a little extra patience and guidance.
When we have a deeper understanding of the challenges they face on a moment-to-moment basis, this helps us show our kids more compassion and empathy, rather than becoming frustrated when we feel they aren’t “listening” to us.
Something I found difficult to wrap my head around when I began learning about ADHD and autism was executive functioning — I honestly wondered to myself, what on earth is that?
In all my years of College and University, never once had I encountered this terminology, and my degrees are in psychology! I’ve since written extensively about executive functions from a more academic standpoint.
One of the best ways we can empower our children to advocate for themselves is to teach them about their own neurology (at a developmentally-appropriate level), and help them identify and understand their own strengths and weaknesses.
I’ve broken down the executive functions into five key categories, and explained them in a relatable way, so that parents can help their children understand their own neurology a bit better.
Perhaps more importantly, I write from the child’s perspective, to help parents better understand and empathize with their children’s experiences.
Executive functions:
Inhibition
Inhibition is like self-control.
Sometimes I do or say things without really thinking, especially if I’m excited or mad. It can get me in trouble too, but I don’t mean to make anyone mad or upset.
When an adults ask me why I did something, I can’t explain because I really don’t know the…
