Does your child have difficulty staying on task, staying organized, planning in advance and managing time?
Executive function refers to skills that help us focus, plan, prioritize, work toward goals, self-regulate behaviors and emotions, adapt to new and unexpected situations, and ultimately engage in abstract thinking and planning.
Executive functions are located primarily in the prefrontal regions of the frontal lobe of the brain with multiple neuronal connections to other cortical, subcortical and brainstem regions.
Some strategies to help with executive function deficits:
1. Use visual schedules to help with daily routines and check off each task after it is completed.
2. Simplify tasks by breaking them down with a start and end time.
3. Use a visual timer so there is a known expectation for how long the child has to complete an activity/task.
4. Use a color coding system to help with dressing, keeping a school bag organized, and categorizing daily tasks.
5. Minimize clutter.
6. Establish consistent routines when possible.
The Therapy Gym© can help if your child is having difficulty with executive functioning skills. We have occupational therapists who can provide help and strategies to children in an individual session or in a small group setting. Please reach out to us if you feel your child can benefit.
The Therapy Gym© is the leading comprehensive pediatric provider of physical, occupational, speech, behavioral and aquatic therapy in Bergen County. It is located at 1400 Palisade Ave, Teaneck, in a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility. Contact us at [email protected] 201-357-0417
www.TheTherapyGym.com
