Executive Functioning

Participate in martial arts programs:

• Martial arts training teaches kids to stay focused, keep trying even when it's hard, and build strong mental habits. 

• Free or low-cost martial arts programs are available in Toronto, often through community organizations, local schools, or public recreational centres. 

Exercise:

• Exercise has been shown to be linked to better executive functioning.

• Encourage children to do regular physical activities like rolling, walking or biking to school.

• Set up a routine that includes physical playtime or sports.

• Join in activities such as family walks, bike rides, or playing games at the park to make exercise a fun and shared experience.

• Get involved in or support extracurricular activities like school sports teams, or other organized physical activities.

• Use online resources or apps that offer free workout routines for children and families, especially when outdoor options are limited.

 Develop self-awareness:

• Self-awareness helps children monitor their cognitive and behavioral processes, leading to enhanced executive functioning. 

• Encourage children to reflect on their thought processes and emotional responses. 

• Ask children how they feel and why. For example, “How did that make you feel?” or “Why do you think you’re feeling that way?”

• Help them understand what they’re good at and where they might need improvement.

Provide structure and routine:

• Develop a consistent daily routine so they know what comes next.

• Use visual schedules so children know what to expect and when.

Give clear instructions and use visual aids:

• Give instructions one step at a time. For example, “First, put your books in your bag. Next, get your lunchbox.”

• Use charts or checklists to show what needs to be done.

Build motivation:

• Help children set small, realistic goals and celebrate their successes, no matter how small.

• Offer small rewards or praise for completing tasks and making an effort.

• Teach them to use encouraging words with themselves, like “I can do this” or “I’m making progress.”

Help with planning and organization:

• Help children make simple plans for tasks. For example, if they have a school project, break it into smaller steps and schedule when to do each step.

• Provide planners, calendars, or apps to help them keep track of assignments and activities.

• Keep work areas tidy and provide clear storage for supplies.

Encourage focus and self-control:

• Develop and use cues as reminders to focus.

• Show children how to wait their turn and think before acting. For example, wait quietly for your turn to speak and show them how to do the same.

• Play games that require turn-taking and waiting, like board games or “Simon Says.”

Help with time management:

• Use timers to help understand how much time they have for different tasks. For example, “You have 10 minutes to finish this homework.”

• Use checklists, planners, or digital apps to help organize work and track progress.

Support memory:

• Provide charts, lists, or pictures to help children remember tasks. For example, a visual schedule can help them remember their daily routines.

• Break down tasks into simple steps and repeat them if necessary. For example, “First, put away your books. Then, wash your hands.”

• Ask children to repeat instructions or information back to you to reinforce their memory.

Support emotional regulation:

• Show children how to calm down using deep breathing or counting to ten when they’re upset.

• Set up a quiet area where they can go to relax and regroup.

• Allow short breaks to manage frustration and help them refocus.

Provide feedback:

• Praise their efforts and progress regularly to boost their confidence.

• Provide gentle guidance on how they can improve or do things differently next time.

Be patient and supportive:

• Understand that developing these skills takes time and practice. Be patient and provide encouragement throughout their learning process.

• Be flexible and adjust strategies based on what works best for each child.