25 Oct, 2024

Understanding Executive Function in Everyday Life 

Executive functions are a set of cognitive skills that help us manage our actions, thoughts, and emotions. These skills help us plan, stay organised, make decisions, and manage time efficiently.  

Whether it’s for children or adults, these functions are key in handling everyday tasks at school, work, or home. In this article, we’ll break down what executive functions are, how they develop over time, and how you can support these skills. 

What Are Executive Functions? 

Think of executive functions as the brain’s “management system.” They are like a control centre that helps us focus on tasks, make decisions, and adjust when things don’t go as planned. These functions can be divided into two main types:  

1. Thinking Skills: These help us analyse situations, plan actions, and consider possible outcomes. They include problem-solving, decision-making, and using working memory. 

2. Doing Skills: These help us stay focused, follow through on tasks, and manage our behaviour. Time management, self-control, and switching between tasks are all part of this category. 

Developmental Milestones in Executive Function 

Executive function skills don’t develop all at once. They grow gradually, reaching full maturity around age 25. Let’s look at the different stages: 

• Early Childhood (Ages 3-5): Young kids start developing self-regulation skills, like taking turns, following basic instructions, and managing small frustrations. Activities like getting dressed or simple morning routines help lay the groundwork for stronger executive function skills later. 

• Primary School (Ages 6-12): In school, children refine their working memory and planning skills. For example, they begin remembering multi-step instructions and managing homework. They also become better at controlling emotions and staying focused. 

• Adolescence (Ages 13-18): Teens sharpen their ability to think abstractly and make decisions. They start managing long-term projects, keeping up with multiple assignments, and handling social and academic commitments. Time management becomes more important as they gain independence. 

• Young Adulthood (Ages 19-25): By this stage, individuals are juggling a range of responsibilities, from managing finances and cooking meals to balancing professional and personal commitments. This period is all about refining decision-making and planning. 

Executive Function in School 

Children and teenagers rely on executive functions to do well in school. These skills are used every day, whether they’re organising assignments, managing time, or prioritising tasks. 

Here are a few examples: 

• Morning Routines: Getting ready for school involves planning (like choosing clothes the night before) and time management (getting dressed and out the door on time). 

• Homework and Assignments: Students use working memory to follow instructions and break large assignments into smaller steps. These tasks help develop the ability to focus and plan. 

One practical tool that can help with executive function development is the Tea and Toast Assessment. This task asks individuals to prepare a simple meal, which encourages kids to practise sequencing and adults to fine-tune multi-tasking and time management skills. 

Executive Function in Adults: Everyday Scenarios 

Executive function skills are just as important for adults, especially when it comes to managing daily responsibilities. Here are some everyday examples: 

• Meal Preparation: Cooking a meal involves planning, sequencing steps, and managing time. For example, making tea and toast requires you to boil water, toast bread, and ensure everything is ready at the same time. 

• Grocery Shopping: This task requires setting a budget, remembering what to buy, and making decisions when items are out of stock. Shopping taps into both planning and flexibility, especially when you need to change your plan on the spot. 

• Workplace Tasks: In a professional setting, executive functions help adults prioritise tasks, manage deadlines, and adapt to unexpected challenges. 

Supporting Executive Function Development 

Since executive function skills are so crucial, it’s important to nurture and strengthen them, especially in children. Here are some ways you can help: 

1. Create Structured Routines: Daily routines provide a framework for children to practise planning and time management. Consistent schedules that include homework, playtime, and meals help kids understand how to manage their time effectively. 

2. Encourage Problem-Solving: Let kids make decisions on their own, whether it’s what to wear or how to approach a homework task. This boosts their planning and problem-solving skills. 

3. Model Effective Strategies: Show kids how to break big tasks into smaller steps. For example, demonstrate how to approach a school project or cook a simple meal. This modelling helps them learn how to tackle complex tasks without feeling overwhelmed. 

4. Provide Organisation Tools: Encourage the use of calendars, checklists, and reminders. For instance, using a checklist for grocery shopping or a school assignment helps keep tasks clear and manageable. 

Conclusion 

Executive functions are essential for managing life’s daily tasks, whether it’s completing school assignments or handling work and home responsibilities. These skills develop over time and with practice, helping individuals plan, organise, and stay on top of their tasks.  

By understanding executive functions and supporting their development, we can empower both children and adults to lead more organised and successful lives. At Core OT, we believe in fostering these essential skills, allowing you to witness the positive impact they have on your child’s growth and success!