Executive Function Challenges
In diagnosing various learning difficulties, Executive Function skill issues often go unnoticed. Children struggle through the learning process without understanding why. They are sometimes labeled under-achievers, lazy, or purposely not working up to their potential. Bright children are unable to demonstrate their talents because problems get in the way. RNBC can help!
How to tell if a child is experiencing Executive Function challenges
Children with Executive Function issues may exhibit some of the following problems or difficulties:
Trouble Organizing Work
- Has difficulty identifying what material to record in note taking
- When given three or more things to do…remembers only the first or the last thing to do
- Has difficulty getting started on tasks, which may appear as oppositional behavior
Trouble Completing Tasks
- Starts tasks but may not finish
- Doesn’t check to insure that each step is completed
- Written work is poorly organized
- Doesn’t check work before submitting it
- Has good ideas but doesn’t get the job done
Trouble Managing Materials
- Starts assignments/tasks without necessary materials
- Loses important papers or assignments
- Cannot find clothes, shoes, toys, books, pencils, etc.
- Fails to turn in completed work
Trouble Managing Time
- Does not leave enough time to complete tasks
- Wastes time doing small projects and fails to do big projects
- Over-estimates or under-estimates time on needed tasks
- Runs out of time before completing assignments/tasks
Trouble Managing Attention
- Skips steps in multi-step tasks
- Has difficulty relating to a story chronologically
- Appears distractible and/or impulsive
- Has difficulty making transitions and/or coping with the unforeseen
Social Difficulties
- Exhibits inappropriate or over-reactive responses to situations
- “Jumps the gun” socially
- Picks smaller, immediate rewards over larger, delayed rewards
- Doesn’t realistically evaluate performance in school