What are Executive Functions?

Executive functions are a set of cognitive processes that enable individuals to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. These skills are crucial for goal-directed behaviour and include working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control. Working memory involves holding and manipulating information over short periods, cognitive flexibility is the ability to adapt to changing situations, and inhibitory control is the capacity to suppress inappropriate impulses.

Why are Executive Functions important?

From the moment children wake up until they go to bed, executive functions are at play. Here are some tasks where these functions are essential:

・Morning Routine: Deciding what to wear, remembering to brush teeth, and organising a backpack for school all require planning and working memory.

・Classroom Activities: Paying attention to the teacher, following instructions, and completing assignments depending on sustained attention and inhibitory control. Problem-solving in subjects like math and science necessitates cognitive flexibility and working memory.

・Playtime: Organizing games, following rules, and negotiating with peers involve
cognitive flexibility and self-regulation.

・Homework and Chores: Managing time, focusing on tasks, and resisting distractions
highlight the importance of executive functions in everyday responsibilities.

Executive functions are foundational for academic success, social interactions, and overall well-being. These skills help children:

*Note: How weak executive functioning can impact a child's daily life and how to address these will be discussed in Part 2 of our web post.

*For more details about Executive Functions in children, please join our parent seminar on 3 & 9 April 2025. For more details, please refer to our website (https://www.cdchk.org/en/events).