Executive functioning is like the brain’s management system that helps us handle everyday tasks and make decisions. It allows you to plan a family outing, keep track of your to-do list, and stay focused on a project. For a child with executive functioning (EF) dysfunction or executive function disorder, everyday tasks can become a real challenge.
For example, if given a homework assignment, they might struggle to get started because they can’t organize their materials or break the tasks into manageable steps. They could get easily distracted by something in their room, like a toy or a game, and have trouble concentrating long enough to finish their work.
When it comes to getting ready for school, a child with executive function deficits might forget to brush their teeth or pack their backpack. They have difficulty remembering all the steps or sticking to the routine. If plans suddenly change, such as an unexpected switch in activities, they might react strongly because they have trouble adapting and managing their emotions. Following multi-step instructions, like cleaning up toys and setting the table for dinner, can be tough as they might forget parts of the tasks or need constant reminders.
Impulse control can also be an issue. During a game or conversation, they might interrupt others or act impulsively, like shouting out answers before the teacher finishes speaking or grabbing a toy from a friend without considering how it might affect them. When executive functioning works well, it helps us stay organized, make plans, and follow through on them, making daily life more manageable.
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Its Connection to Executive Functioning Dysfunction
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s ability to interact, communicate, and process information. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder often experience a range of executive function difficulties, which can significantly impact their daily lives. A significant percentage of those with autism suffer from executive function disorder, complicating daily activities. While autism itself is not classified as a learning disability, the prevalence of comorbidities highlights the multifaceted challenges individuals with ASD may encounter (Ibrahim, 2019). One of the core aspects of ASD is its effect on executive function, including cognitive flexibility, which is the ability to adapt to new information and switch between tasks. Autistic people may face executive dysfunction that makes it challenging to adjust to changes or handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Executive function challenges in autism can manifest as impulse control issues, where the individual struggles to control immediate reactions or resist distractions. This is closely related to challenges with inhibitory control, a key component of self-control that involves regulating one’s responses to stimuli. Variations in a person's ability to manage inhibitory control can significantly impact autistic individuals, influencing their behavior and ability to ignore distractions. Understanding and improving executive function skills, including working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control, is crucial. While autism itself is not a severe learning disability, it is not uncommon for individuals with ASD to also have coexisting learning disabilities (Dunn et al., 2018). Autistic people may also struggle with cognitive processes essential for managing time, organizing tasks, and ignoring distractions. This impacts their ability to effectively plan, execute, and complete daily activities.What Causes Executive Functioning Difficulties in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Executive function challenges can significantly impact individuals with autism, affecting basic tasks such as organization, initiative, and self-control. Methods and approaches are needed to help mitigate these challenges and improve overall functioning. Inhibitory control plays a significant role in executive functioning, impacting a person’s ability to ignore distractions and resist impulsive actions. This is particularly relevant for autistic individuals who may struggle with such control, highlighting the implications for their behavioral traits. The executive functioning issues seen in autism spectrum disorder are often related to differences in brain structure and connectivity that affect how various cognitive processes work together. Here’s a closer look at why these issues occur:Brain Structure and Connectivity
Research suggests that individuals with autism may have differences in brain structure and connectivity, particularly in areas involved in executive functions like the prefrontal cortex. These differences can impact how efficiently the brain processes and integrates information needed for planning, organization, and flexibility. Consequently, these structural and connectivity differences can lead to executive function deficits, affecting daily life activities such as task initiation and routine management. Imagine your brain as a bustling city with different neighborhoods that need to communicate to keep everything running smoothly. For someone with autism, the roads (neural connections) between neighborhoods might be under construction or less efficient. For instance, if the prefrontal cortex, which helps with planning and making decisions, isn’t as connected or developed as it is for others, it can be like having a GPS with outdated maps. This makes it harder to navigate daily tasks and make decisions effectively.Neurological Differences
Autism is associated with atypical development of neural circuits that support executive functioning. For instance, there might be differences in the way neurotransmitters (chemicals in the brain) are regulated, affecting cognitive control and emotional regulation. This atypical development can result in executive dysfunction, manifesting as challenges in planning, organizing, and managing emotions. Think of neurotransmitters as messengers delivering important instructions throughout the city. If these messengers are not working properly—either delivering too much or too little information—it can lead to confusion and delays. In autism, these messengers might not function as smoothly, making it harder to stay focused, regulate emotions, or control impulses. It’s like trying to get a job done when the communication system is unreliable.Difficulty with Cognitive Flexibility
Cognitive flexibility, the ability to switch between tasks or adapt to changes, is often impaired in autism. This difficulty can stem from a preference for routines and resistance to change, which are common in autism. Difficulties with cognitive flexibility can significantly impact executive function skills, making it challenging for individuals with autism to manage daily tasks effectively. Cognitive flexibility is like switching between different apps on your phone smoothly. For many people with autism, switching apps might feel like using an old, slow device where changing tasks takes more effort and time. For instance, if you’re used to doing homework in a specific way and suddenly need to change to a new method, it can feel as disorienting as being asked to switch apps without closing the previous one properly.Sensory Processing Differences
Many individuals with autism have sensory processing differences that can overwhelm or distract them. This sensory overload can interfere with their ability to focus, plan, and execute tasks. Sensory processing differences can also lead to executive function difficulties, affecting both children and adults in their daily activities and overall functioning. Imagine trying to work in a room where the lights are too bright, there’s a constant buzzing sound, and someone is playing loud music. This sensory overload can make it nearly impossible to focus on a task. Many people with autism experience their world this way. They might be easily overwhelmed by sounds, lights, or textures, which can make it challenging to stay organized and complete tasks. It’s like trying to concentrate on a project while dealing with constant distractions.Social and Emotional Processing
Executive functioning is closely linked with social and emotional processing. Since autism often involves challenges in social communication and emotional regulation, these difficulties can also impact executive functioning skills. Think of social interactions as a complex dance. For many people with autism, following this dance can be like trying to learn a new choreography without being able to see the steps clearly. They might find it hard to understand social cues or manage their emotions, affecting their ability to interact smoothly with others. It’s like trying to dance to a beat that’s off rhythm or not fully understanding the moves, making social situations feel more challenging. These challenges in social and emotional processing can also affect self-control, making it harder to manage impulsivity and decision-making.Atypical Development
Autism involves atypical development of cognitive and behavioral processes. This can lead to differences in how executive functions, such as impulse control and working memory, are developed and utilized. Many autistic people face difficulties with cognitive tasks such as working memory, planning, and behavioral flexibility, necessitating targeted strategies and assistance to overcome these hurdles. Imagine learning to ride a bike in a different way than most people do. Some skills might develop at a different pace or in a unique manner. For individuals with autism, executive functions like planning and organization might develop in a less conventional way. It’s similar to learning to ride a bike with training wheels that take longer to remove. You might still get there, but the path looks different from the usual route.5 Ways You Can Help Executive Function in Your ASD Child
1. Create a supportive environment
Creating a supportive environment for a child with executive functioning (EF) difficulties involves several practical strategies. Establishing consistent daily routines helps your child anticipate and prepare for what’s next, making it easier to follow through with tasks and handle transitions between activities. Visual aids, such as schedules and checklists, can provide clear guidance and reminders, making tasks more manageable and reducing cognitive strain.2. Make Tasks Manageable
Breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can help your child focus on one part at a time and prevent them from feeling overwhelmed. Providing instructions in a straightforward and specific manner ensures that your child understands what needs to be done, making it easier for them to follow through.3. Teach Self-Regulation Skills
Encouraging self-regulation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, can help your child manage their emotions and behavior more effectively. Positive reinforcement, including praise and rewards, can motivate your child and build their confidence by acknowledging their efforts and successes.4. Model Problem-Solving Skills
Modeling problem-solving skills and practicing them together helps your child learn how to tackle challenges and make decisions more effectively. Teaching time management skills, such as using timers and setting priorities, can assist your child in organizing tasks and understanding how to manage their time.5. Create a Calm Environment
Creating a calm and organized environment reduces distractions and helps your child focus on their tasks. If necessary, seeking help from professionals like occupational therapists or psychologists can provide specialized support tailored to your child’s needs. By implementing these approaches, you can support your child in developing better executive functioning skills and managing daily challenges more effectively. If you are a parent who needs guidance on supporting your child with executive functioning disorder, check out my detailed resource, the Executive Functioning Parent Toolkit. This guide offers a practical 30-day plan filled with science-based and natural strategies to enhance your child's executive skills effectively. Learn more about it here.
Seeking Professional Help for Children with Autism and Executive Functioning Disorder
Seeking professional help can be a crucial step in addressing executive functioning (EF) difficulties related to autism. Professionals can provide targeted support and methods tailored to your child's specific needs, helping them navigate the challenges associated with EF dysfunction more effectively.Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists often play a key role in assisting children with EF challenges. They can develop individualized intervention plans that focus on improving skills such as organization, time management, and self-regulation. Occupational therapists may use activities and exercises designed to enhance cognitive flexibility and impulse control, helping children develop better methods for managing everyday tasks.Speech and Language Therapists
Speech and language therapists can also be beneficial, significantly, if your child's executive function disorder affects their communication and social interactions. These therapists work on improving skills related to understanding and following instructions, organizing thoughts, and managing conversations. They can provide techniques to help your child better process and respond to verbal and non-verbal cues, which is essential for effective executive functioning.Psychologists or Neuropsychologists
Psychologists can conduct comprehensive assessments to identify the specific areas of EF that may be impacting your child's functioning. They can provide diagnostic clarity, assess cognitive strengths and weaknesses, and offer tailored recommendations for interventions. These professionals can also work on plans to address behavioral and emotional challenges that often accompany executive function difficulties.Behavioral Therapists
Behavioral therapists might use techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help children develop coping techniques and problem-solving skills. Behavioral therapists can work on setting goals, reinforcing positive behaviors, and managing reactions to stress or frustration, which are important for improving EF.Taking the Holistic Approach
The BrainBehaviorReset™ Program offers a holistic approach to tackling mental health challenges in children, including issues related to executive functioning (EF). Rather than relying on medication, this comprehensive program integrates various science-backed methods tailored to each child’s unique needs. Central to the program is neurofeedback, which helps regulate brain activity, promoting a state of calm that is crucial for improving executive functioning skills such as organization, focus, and impulse control. Behavioral therapy is also a key component, providing strategies to address specific executive functioning difficulties like task management and emotional regulation. The program starts with a QEEG brain mapping to gain an in-depth understanding of your child’s brain function, enabling targeted interventions to enhance cognitive flexibility and working memory. Alongside these techniques, lifestyle changes—including dietary adjustments and stress management—support overall brain health and function. By addressing both the neurological and behavioral aspects of executive functioning issues, the BrainBehaviorReset™ Program aims to foster significant improvements in executive functioning, helping your child better manage daily tasks, transitions, and emotional responses. This multifaceted approach strives to create lasting changes that enhance your child’s ability to thrive both academically and socially. If you are interested in working with me and my team, check out our Free Solutions Matcher.Citations
Dunn, K., Rydzewska, E., MacIntyre, C., Rintoul, J., & Cooper, S.-A. . (2018). The prevalence and general health status of people with intellectual disabilities and autism co-occurring together: a total population study. Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, 63(4), 277–285. https://doi.org/10.1111/jir.12573
Ibrahim, I. (2019). Specific Learning Disorder in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Current Issues and Future Implications. Advances in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, 4. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41252-019-00141-x
Dr. Roseann is a mental health expert in Executive Functioning who frequently is in the media:
- Forbes Experts Say Wellness Design Provides Benefits To Individuals On The Autism Spectrum
- Medicinal Media Different minds grow awareness: understanding the autism spectrum
- Autism W/ Dr. Andy McCabe Radio Show Topic: Autism, PANS/PANDAS
- Autism in Action Podcast: Neurofeedback
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Dr. Roseann is a Children’s Mental Health Expert and Licensed Therapist who has been featured in/on hundreds of media outlets including The Mel Robbins Show, CBS, NBC, PIX11 NYC, Today, FORBES, CNN, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Business Insider, Women’s Day, Healthline, CNET, Parade Magazine and PARENTS. FORBES called her, “A thought leader in children’s mental health.”
She coined the terms, “Re-entry panic syndrome” and “eco-anxiety” and is a frequent contributor to media on mental health.
Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge has three decades of experience in working with children, teens and their families with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, concussion, dyslexia and learning disability, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), depression and mood disorder, Lyme Disease, and PANS/PANDAS using science-backed natural mental health solutions such as supplements, magnesium, nutrition, QEEG Brain maps, neurofeedback, PEMF, psychotherapy and other non-medication approaches.
She is the author of three bestselling books, It’s Gonna Be OK!: Proven Ways to Improve Your Child's Mental Health, The Teletherapy Toolkit, and Brain Under Attack. Dr. Roseann is known for offering a message of hope through science-endorsed methods that promote a calm brain.
Her trademarked BrainBehaviorResetⓇ Program and It’s Gonna be OK!Ⓡ Podcast has been a cornerstone for thousands of parents facing mental health, behavioral or neurodevelopmental challenges.
She is the founder and director of The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health, Neurotastic™Brain Formulas and Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC. Dr. Roseann is a Board Certified Neurofeedback (BCN) Practitioner, a Board Member of the Northeast Region Biofeedback Society (NRBS), Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP) and an Amen Clinic Certified Brain Health Coach. She is also a member of The International Lyme Disease and Associated Disease Society (ILADS), The American Psychological Association (APA), Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), International OCD Foundation (IOCDF).
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