06/07/2025
Executive function has become a bit of a buzzword... but! It's such important skill for every day life.
In a nutshell, executive functioning is a set of mental skills that help us manage our thoughts, actions, and emotions so that we can complete goal-directed activities. These skills act as the “control centre” of the brain, allowing us to plan, organise, remember information, and regulate our behaviour.
Executive function skills include:
🧠 Working Memory
The ability to hold and use information in your mind for short periods (e.g., remembering instructions or a shopping list).
🗣 Inhibitory Control (Self-Control)
The skill to pause and think before acting, resist distractions, and control impulses.
💥 Cognitive Flexibility
The ability to switch between tasks, adapt to new situations, and see things from different perspectives.
⏰ Planning and Organisation
Setting goals, making plans, and organising tasks or materials to achieve those goals.
😡🤩 Emotional Regulation
Managing emotions to respond appropriately to situations and challenges.
Why is Executive Functioning Important?
🧒 For Children: It helps with following instructions, managing emotions, staying focused, and building independence.
👩🦳 For Adults: It supports juggling responsibilities, making decisions, managing time, and coping with stress.
