Executive functions are the “management” skills of the brain. They help us plan, organise, remember instructions, manage time and switch between tasks. Difficulties with these skills are common in ADHD, autism and other learning differences.
What you might notice
- Leaving tasks until the last minute, even important ones.
- Forgetting what they were asked to do.
- Struggling to start a big task, like a school project.
- Difficulty moving from one activity to another.
How to help
Use checklists, timers and calendars. Break big tasks into small steps. Agree on routines and keep them predictable.