Executive Function (EF) is like an orchestra conductor for your life. And just like a conductor, Executive Function combines a set of skills, in unison, to execute complex tasks to completion. Skills like short-term memory, flexibility, and organization… and each is equally important. You can group EF skills into two groups:
- thinking about thinking and
- regulating emotions.
Why is Thinking About Thinking Important?
Being aware of your thoughts or how you picture yourself doing things (metacognition) helps you build:
- a growth mindset
- healthy self-regulation
- figuring out your needs
- understand the reasons for your behaviors
You can practice metacognition with your kids on the way home from school. Have everyone take a deep breath, and then share the first thing they intentionally plan to do when they get home. You can use this technique any time there’s a transition in your child’s day.
Another, more in-depth conversation is a “Traffic Lights” chat. Ask your child about when they got stuck (red), met a challenge or tried something new (yellow), or learned something interesting (green) during their school day.
- What did you learn?
- How did you learn it?
- How has your thinking changed as a result?
- What worked or didn’t work when you were learning?
- What do you want to do differently next time?
This will help them develop skills like a realistic awareness of time, organization, and prioritization.
Why is Regulating Emotions Important?
Emotions are critically connected to learning. Plus, emotions drive behavior. And behavior drives attention, which is essential for learning.
Even if your child is struggling with their emotions right now, they can gradually grow their emotional control as they learn strategies and techniques to manage their feelings. Plus, as their brain matures and they practice regulation, they’ll become masters at managing frustration, boredom, and other challenges that show up in life and in the classroom.
