Executive Function Disorder Therapist in Long Island City, NY, and New York, NY

As individuals mature, their executive function skills evolve. Impulse control and working memory begin to develop during infancy and preschool years. As children approach puberty, they exhibit goal-directed behavior, selective attention, and self-control. Between ages 8-10, a child’s mental flexibility begins to match that of an adult. Moving into adolescence, the teenage brain becomes more effective, leading to increased consistency in executive functioning skills. Between the age of 20-29, these skills are at their peak and may decline with age.

The precise causes of executive functioning deficits are still under investigation. Possible factors include genetic inheritance and variations in brain function, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, where many executive function processes take place. Children experiencing difficulty with executive functioning may often have coexisting diagnoses, such as ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, mood disorder, fetal alcohol syndrome, or brain injuries. An estimated 30% of school-age children with ADHD experience executive functioning issues. Life experiences and brain development are believed to shape an individual’s executive functioning and may often have coexisting diagnoses, such as ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, mood disorder, fetal alcohol syndrome, or brain injuries. An estimated 30% of school-age children with ADHD experience executive functioning issues. Life experiences and physical changes and development of the brain are thought to shape a person’s executive functioning abilities over their lifetime.

Since the brain continues to develop into young adulthood, intervention can be beneficial at any age. Psychologists can provide cognitive-behavioral therapy to help children monitor their thoughts and behaviors. Therapy can also offer social skills training for appropriate responses in social situations. An integrated approach involving psychologists, teachers, and parents can help their children improve these skills and implement them in the classroom and at home with family and friends.

While the definitive reason is still unclear, research indicates that bilingual individuals, including infants, children, and the elderly, tend to excel in executive functioning tasks, particularly in impulse control and task switching.

What is Executive Functioning?

Executive functioning refers to a set of important cognitive skills we all use every day. These skills include memory, attention, organization, planning, and impulse control, and they play an important role in academic success and daily life.

How does Executive Function develop in individuals?

Over time your Executive function skills develop. Impulse control and working memory begin in infancy, and as children grow, they acquire skills like goal-directed behavior, attention, and self-control. Mental flexibility starts to match that of adults around age 8-10 and continues to improve into young adulthood.

Are Executive Functioning Skills Important for Academic Success?

Yes! Executive functioning skills are crucial for academic success. They help students stay organized, manage their time effectively, and make informed decisions. These skills enable students to plan, focus, and complete their tasks, which are vital for achieving academic goals.

How can Parents and Teachers support children with Executive Functioning challenges?

Parents and teachers can play a significant role in supporting children with executive functioning challenges. Communication, structure, and patience are essential. They can work together to create consistent routines, provide clear instructions, and offer positive reinforcement to help children improve their skills.

Is there a link between Executive Function challenges and other conditions?

Yes, executive functioning challenges often coexist with other conditions, such as ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, mood disorders, fetal alcohol syndrome, or brain injuries. Addressing these coexisting conditions can help improve executive functioning.