"Caring for Kids" is a new monthly article series by early childhood education experts in U-M Work-Life Programs.
“Executive functioning” is a term to describe the way your brain works to help you make plans, focus your attention, remember things, and juggle multiple tasks. And believe it or not, kids start learning executive functioning from the time that they are babies, building skills that help in every aspect of our lives, from learning daily routines to excelling in school and work. And it all starts with play and interaction with you.
“When children are young, we can help develop important executive skills through playful games and establishing routines,” says Christine Snyder, interim director of U-M Work-Life Programs and an experienced early childhood educator. “It’s a gradual development that adults can support for children of every age.”
Practicing age-appropriate skills is a great way to help your child have a great time in learning environments and socially too. Learning about executive functioning is a good place to start, like with this basic article from pathways.org. It offers a basic definition of the concept and touches on topics like working memory, self-control, and mental flexibility to help cope with stress and change.
Take some time to get familiar with executive functioning. It can really help you feel empowered as a parent or caregiver supporting a child. You can help practice impulse control, develop reasoning skills and promote positive behaviors.
