Executive Function
According to the Learning Disabilities Association of America:
“[Executive dysfunction is] an inefficiency in the cognitive management systems of the brain that affects a variety of neuropsychological processes such as planning, organization, strategizing, paying attention to and remembering details, and managing time and space. Although not a learning disability, different patterns of weakness in executive functioning are almost always seen in the learning profiles of individuals who have specific learning disabilities or ADHD.”
WEBSITES
Understood.org: What is executive function?
Includes short video explanation, “snapshot” of executive function, signs, causes, assessment and treatment
Seth Perler: What is executive functioning (in plain English)
Short introductory video, definition, areas impacted, aspects of executive function, damaging misconceptions, ways to help (or not), checklist and further resources; additional PDF downloads and quiz available through free sign-up
Clinical psychologist specializing in ADHD, but blog articles and resources are relevant to parents of all neurodiverse children
Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS)
Description and resources related to CPS, an evidence-based psychosocial model developed by Dr. Ross Greene. His nonprofit organization, Lives in the Balance, offers a “walking tour” for parents and educators. The Paperwork section is packed with tools.
Academic and Parent Coach Leslie Josel offers articles, videos, podcasts, printables and worksheets (with sign-up), Facebook groups and information about her books
Association of Educational Therapists: Tips for parents
10 related blog posts with practical ideas to support your child’s executive functioning skills
ARTICLES AND HANDOUTS
National Center for Learning Disabilities: Executive function fact sheet
Basic definition and bulleted lists of abilities affected by EF, with compensatory strategies
National Center for Learning Disabilities: What is executive function?
Deeper explanation of executive function through use of narratives and humor; includes list of EF abilities with illustrations from the narrative
Search Institute: Strengthening Executive Function
Well-researched article on the development and importance of EF; includes the SOAR approach to supporting EF in children
Super Duper: Handy handouts on executive function
Compilation of three handouts: Teaching Time Management, Executive Functions - Something to Think About, and Sequencing and Executive Functioning
BOOKS
Series of books written by prominent researchers of executive function, Pam Dawson and Richard Guare