Abby Taylor, OT
As therapists, we love building brain skills that kids need to succeed. One of these necessary skills is executive functioning, but what exactly is that?
Executive functioning is the name for cognitive skills that we all need to participate in the things we want to do and need to do. These are skills that allow us to plan, organize, and regulate our bodies and minds so that we can participate in work, play, school, and household activities. For children, these skills grow and emerge through participating in daily routines and play activities.
As therapists, it is our job to help cultivate these skills. Your child may appear disorganized or have poor memory, resulting in frustration for both you and the child. There are many different strategies that we can set in place to help with that, such as visual charts, schedules, and different ways of communicating. Does your child have a short attention span? There are activities and strategies that we can use to help engage them and encourage them to participate in games and daily activities!
Without these skills, children may get frustrated easily, have a difficult time following instructions or a routine, they may forget instructions or household rules, and have tantrums or meltdowns when in a new place or with new people.
After answering what exactly executive functioning is, the next question is likely, “What do I need to look for in my child?” Listed below are some examples of executive functioning skills your child should demonstrate.
Attention
Memory
Organization
Planning Ahead
Impulse Control
Emotional Regulation
If you notice your child having difficulties in any of these areas, occupational therapists at Hogg Therapy are trained in evaluating and treating executive functioning deficits. Visit our website here , or give us a call at 859-353-3666 if you have any questions or concerns about your child.
Berea, KY 40403
Tel:
(859) 353-3666
Fax: (859) 448-7077
Richmond KY 40475
Tel:
(859) 353-3666
Fax: (859) 448-7077
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