Executive Functioning

Tailored approaches to identifying need, remove barriers or develop skill progression

It is important to recognise that for some CYP, executive functioning difficulties may stem from intrinsic behaviours that cannot simply be “unlearnt.” Educational settings should adapt their practices and provision to help CYP navigate the mainstream environment safely and successfully. While some behaviours may continue to present challenges, they should be understood within the context of the CYP’s individual needs rather than viewed solely as obstacles.

Short code	Description
Flexibility of thinking / shift	Adapting to change, transitioning between activities, and/or revising plans when faced with new information, obstacles, or setbacks
Emotional Regulation	Recognising and/or communicating feelings and managing these when experiencing strong emotions
Response Inhibition	Stopping and thinking before acting
Sustained Attention	Remaining focused and on task in spite of distractions or lack of interest
Task Initiation	Beginning or starting a task
Working Memory	Holding information in mind whilst performing a complex task e.g. following multi-step instructions
Planning and Prioritisation	Creating a plan, making decisions, and prioritising for task completion
Time management	Estimating and using time effectively. Difficulty keeping track of time
Goal directed persistence	Persevering, adapting, and following a task through to completion
Metacognition	Stepping back to monitor and evaluate thinking and learning such as editing work
Organisation of materials	Maintaining systems for tracking information and having materials needed
Stress tolerance	Managing uncertainty, change, and competing demands