What is Executive functioning?

Executive functioning is a psychological process that enables us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks successfully. We can distinguish three essential components of executive functioning. 

1.    Working Memory

Working memory is responsible for processing information. If it is well-developed, it allows us to manage multiple chunks of information at the same time. We can solve complicated problems and understand profound ideas. Without much of it, our knowledge is limited. 

2.    Inhibitory Control

Inhibitory control describes our capability to concentrate. It regulates our emotions and controls our behavior during stressful situations. It is an essential skill if we want to change a childhood habit. 

3.    Cognitive Flexibility

Cognitive flexibility is the capability to adapt to new tasks quickly and to change our perspective. If one doesn't have this ability, he/she might come across as "stubborn" or "uncooperative." 

WHAT PARENTS NEED TO LEARN ABOUT EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING…

The trouble with executive function is not a diagnosis or a learning disability on its own, but when we have a weakness in this area, it impacts their learning and everyday life. If you are unfamiliar with the term executive functioning, you are not alone. Many parents are not familiar with the term.

It is not clear precisely what causes executive function issues, but scientists, researchers, and educators are learning more about them all the time.

With executive functioning skills, there can be a genetic component. Many kids who struggle with executive functioning have a family member who might also struggle with the same challenges or deficits. who also does. The environment does also plays an important role. [1] Scientists point to several factors including high stress, poor nutrition and sleep, lack of exposure to language, and low-quality caregiving.[2] 

Problems with executive functioning are closely tied to ADHD, but kids with ADHD aren't the only ones who have trouble with these skills. Many children with learning issues also have weaknesses in executive skills that further contribute to their challenges. For example, some kids with dyslexia have trouble with working memory. So even after they become fluent readers, they still might have problems with reading comprehension. 

How are executive skills different from studying abilities? 

There is an intrinsic link between studying skills and executive functioning skills, but they are very different from one another. 

Executive functioning helps children to intercept the inbound thought and impulses and helps them to steer themselves towards productive outcomes. While on the other hand, Study skills are an individual's capacity to study efficiently and profoundly. Children who suffer from executive dysfunction often find it difficult to pay attention and focus, which directly affects their studying skills. 

Kids who struggle with executive functions face difficulty paying attention and focusing, organizing and planning, and starting and completing tasks. They also have issues shifting focus from one study to another.

Please note that executive function issues do not correlate with intelligence. Kids with executive functioning issues can be highly gifted.

[1] Driven to Distraction, Edward M. Halliwell. John J Ratey.

[2] Harvard Center for the Developing Child. https://developingchild.harvard.edu/science/key-concepts/executive-function/