Today we are talking about something that might not always be on the top of mind but is important – executive functioning. It's like the air traffic control system of the brain, managing everything from making a plan for the day to keeping our emotions in check. For our incredible teens with autism, sharpening these skills is key to their independence and daily success. 

Skills like planning, organization, task initiation, and emotional regulation can be a struggle for some people. But these are some of the most critical skills for your child's development and independence. At PS Academy Arizona, we work on these skills in our secondary and transition programs, designed for kids and young adults with autism, but there are ways you can improve them at home, too. In this blog, we explore practical tips and real-life examples to help improve executive functioning in your child.

Everyday Strategies to Boost Executive Functioning

Creating Visual Schedules

Think of visual schedules like a super-friendly daily roadmap. They’re fantastic for guiding your child through everyday routines and new experiences. Let’s say it’s a trip to the dentist – a visual schedule can break down the journey into manageable steps, making it less intimidating. Or how about grocery shopping? A picture-based list can turn a mundane chore into an engaging activity. Start simple and gradually increase complexity as your child gets more comfortable with the concept. You can get some examples from our Autism Toolkit here for things like trips to the dentist or buying groceries. Check out our post here if you’d like to learn more about dealing with routine changes.

Task Breakdown for Daily Chores

Have you ever felt swamped by a big project? Our kids feel the same with tasks that seem too big to handle. Here's where breaking them down can work wonders. For example, if the task is to clean their room, start with ‘pick up toys’, then ‘make the bed’, followed by ‘organize the bookshelf’. Each small victory builds confidence and a sense of achievement.

Tech as a Helper, Not a Distraction

In a world where screen time is often a battleground, let's turn tech into a helpful tool. There are tons of apps out there to help with organization and time management. How about setting a fun timer for tasks or using a simple to-do list app? And don't overlook games – many can promote strategic thinking and planning skills in a fun, engaging way.

Building Emotional Regulation Through Daily Interactions

Emotional regulation is all about understanding and managing those big feelings. Regular conversations about emotions, using age-appropriate language, can be incredibly beneficial. If your child is feeling overwhelmed, help them name the emotion and talk through it. Sensory toys can be great for moments of stress, and social stories can provide relatable scenarios to help them navigate complex feelings.

Meal Planning as a Life Skill

Here’s an everyday task that can be a fantastic learning opportunity. Involve your child in planning meals for the week. This can include choosing recipes, making a shopping list, and even budgeting for groceries. It’s a real-world application of planning, organization, and decision-making skills.

Playdates and Social Interaction

Arranging playdates or small group activities can be a great way to practice social skills in a safe environment. Activities like board games can teach turn-taking and rule-following, while group crafts or cooking can encourage teamwork and collaboration.

Physical Exercise for Focus

Regular physical activity can greatly help with focus and concentration. Whether it's a sport, a dance class, or just a daily walk, these activities can aid in better executive functioning while also being a healthy outlet for energy and stress.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or gentle yoga can help your child manage stress and improve concentration. Incorporating these into the daily routine can have a calming effect and enhance their overall executive functioning.

Encouraging Independence in Personal Care

Gradually encourage your child to take more responsibility for their personal care. This can be as simple as choosing their clothes, brushing their teeth, or packing their school bag. Each step towards independence is a step towards stronger executive functioning.

Homework Routines

Establishing a consistent homework routine can help improve focus and time management skills. Create a quiet, designated space for homework and break assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks. This not only helps with homework but also instills a sense of discipline and routine.

Managing Money Skills

Introduce basic money management through allowance or budgeting for small purchases. This teaches them the value of money, basic math skills, and the concept of saving and spending wisely.

Celebrating Small Wins

Lastly, remember to celebrate the small victories. No matter how small, every step forward is progress and deserves recognition. This positive reinforcement can boost your child’s confidence and motivation.

To Wrap It All Up…

Improving executive functioning in children with autism requires patience, understanding, and the right strategies. Our customized programs at PS Academy Arizona focus on teaching life skills rather than just academics. We’ve got over 30 clubs and electives so students can learn Dating Dos and Don’ts alongside more traditional subjects like math or science. For more resources or to schedule a tour, check out our website.

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