Executive Functions (EF) are mental processes that help to connect past experience with present action to guide future behaviour. Individuals with Learning Disabilities and/or ADHD may experience increased difficulty in the development and use of these functions compared to their same-aged neurotypical peers. These functions underlie activities such as planning, organizing, strategizing, paying attention to and remembering details, and managing time and space. When students struggle in these areas, it can result in behaviours that are often labelled as “attention-seeking”, “defiant”, “showing off”, “unmotivated” or “lazy”, “emotional overreactions”, and “inflexible”, just to name a few.
Teaching and parenting students with EF deficits can be challenging, and understanding the how and why of EF deficits can significantly impact how we work with these children. This session will increase your knowledge of how EF deficits impact learning and what you can do to maximize their success. With a focus on cognitive neuroscience research and brain-based strategies that you can use to increase engagement, motivation, and self-management, we will discuss:
- The Executive Functions and how they work
- Discuss the development of EF
- How EF deficits impact student emotions, behaviour, and academics
- How to best support students with EF deficits