Executive Functions

Executive Functions describe a set of brain based cognitive skills that allow us to focus, plan, remember instructions, organize, and complete tasks. They can be summarized as the "what-to-do" and "how-to-do-something" skill set. Executive functions allow us to manage ourselves and our resources in order to complete a goal. Below are links that will tell you more about each of the twelve functions.

The definitions below are taken from South County Child & Family Consultants. The links will provide more information about each executive function, and the pages will give you hints and strategies to improve each area at home.

Flexibility- the ability to adapt, improvise, and shift approaches to demands

Goal Directed Persistence - the ability to persevere with tasks that require sustained effort

Metacognition - the ability to self-monitor and observe

Organization - the ability to use a systematic approach to achieve a goal

Planning - the ablility to develop a set of strategies in order to accomplish a goal

Regulation of Affect - the ability to manage one's feelings effectively for decision-making and task-completion

Response Inhibition - the ability to stop or delay a reaction rather than display impulsive behavior

Social Thinking - the ability to respond appropriately to social conditions

Sustained Attention - the ability to maintain one's focus and attention in the presence of distractions

Task Initiation - the ability to initiate a task without procrastination

Time Management - the ability to respond to things in a timely fasion

Working Memory - the ability to remember something while performing an activity

Other South County Child & Family Consultant Fact Sheets and Handouts