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FIGURE 6. EXECUTIVE FUNCTION DEFICITS: INDICATORS AND STRATEGIES What are executive function deficits?
Deficits in the cognitive processes that enable individuals to draw on prior experience in order to perform tasks and solve problems. Students who have executive function deficits experience challenges with activities such as planning, organizing, strategizing, and paying attention to and remembering details.
EXECUTIVE FUNCTION DEFICITS
What are some “look-fors” in students?
• Having difficulty moving smoothly and seamlessly from one activity to the next
• Having difficulty regulating emotions
• Having difficulty planning, organizing,
and managing space and time (e.g., messy notebook, sloppy work, cluttered desk)
• Having difficulty initiating actions to solve problems (e.g., waiting for a teacher to “rescue” them)
• Forgetting directions
• Showing impulsiveness in responding in
social and classroom situations
What are some strategies you can use in your practice?
• Break tasks down into simple steps.
• Provide written directions with oral instructions. • Plan and structure transition times and shifts
in activities.
• Encourage students to make a checklist and/
or use a time organizer to keep track of things
they need to do (e.g., assignments, etc.). • Encourage students to use visual calendars
to keep track of long-term assignments, due
dates, etc.
• Take the time to listen to the students, build
trust, and understand their needs.
• Initiate discussions with parents to learn more
about students’ circumstances and needs. • Encourage peer support and friendships.
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