Understanding Executive Function in Children: Tips for Parents

 In this segment on Total Information AM, Dr. Stephanie Mahfood, the interim dean at the School of Education at Webster University, sheds light on executive function in children and how parents can support their development. Executive function refers to a set of cognitive processes that help children learn how to learn, including goal setting, planning, organizing, emotional regulation, and self-monitoring. Dr. Mahfood emphasizes that executive function can be taught and improved, just like any other learning strategy. Parents can model executive function skills, be developmentally appropriate and concrete in their instructions, and involve their children in planning and organizing activities. As we approach the school year, these tips can help parents support their kids' executive function skills and overall success.