Welcome to the Behavior Nanny Blog!
Hi there! I’m The Behavior Nanny—your go-to guide for all things parenting, behavior, and brain-based learning. Written by Jeanine Wilkinson, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over 35 years of experience (and a mom of three!), this blog is here to support you as you raise your extraordinary, neurodiverse kiddos. Each post will offer real-life strategies, playful insights, and a dash of teacher magic to help you navigate the everyday challenges of parenting with confidence, connection, and compassion. Let’s build your parenting toolkit—together!
Our first blog is about executive functioning at home. Let’s dive in and build your parenting toolkit—together!
Supporting Executive Function at Home
Tips for Parents of Kids with ADHD, Autism, and Learning Differences
Executive functioning refers to a set of mental skills that include working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control. These skills are essential for learning, behavior, and daily life. For neurodivergent children—such as those with ADHD, autism, or learning differences—challenges with executive functioning can impact their ability to manage tasks, regulate emotions, and adapt to new situations.
Understanding Executive Functioning
Executive functions are like the brain’s management system, enabling individuals to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks successfully. Key components include:
- Working Memory: Holding and manipulating information over short periods.
- Cognitive Flexibility: Adjusting to changing demands or priorities.
- Inhibitory Control: Resisting impulses and distractions to stay focused.
Neurodivergent children may struggle with these skills, leading to difficulties in academic performance, social interactions, and daily routines.
Signs of Executive Functioning Challenges
- Parents might notice the following behaviors:
- Difficulty starting or completing tasks.
- Trouble following multi-step instructions.
- Frequent forgetfulness or misplacing items.
- Emotional outbursts when routines change.
- Challenges in organizing time and materials.
Strategies to Support Executive Functioning at Home
- Establish Consistent Routines: Predictable schedules help children know what to expect, reducing anxiety and improving task initiation.
- Use Visual Aids: Charts, checklists, and visual schedules can guide children through tasks and routines, enhancing working memory and independence.
- Break Tasks into Manageable Steps: Dividing assignments into smaller, sequential steps makes tasks feel less overwhelming and more achievable.
- Incorporate Timers and Alarms: Visual or auditory timers can assist with time management and transitions between activities.
- Create a Designated Workspace: A clutter-free, quiet area minimizes distractions and supports focus during tasks.
- Encourage Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices like deep breathing or short breaks can help children manage emotions and improve self-regulation.
- Implement ‘Body Doubling’: Working alongside your child can increase accountability and focus, especially during challenging tasks.
When to Seek Additional Support
If your child continues to struggle despite these strategies, consider consulting professionals such as occupational therapists, psychologists, or executive function coaches. They can provide tailored interventions to address specific challenges.
In Conclusion
Supporting your neurodivergent child’s executive functioning is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and consistency. By implementing structured routines, visual supports, and mindful practices, you can empower your child to develop essential life skills. Remember, progress may be gradual, but with continued support, your child can thrive.
Until next time,
The Behavior Nanny
