How executive functioning difficulties show up in children and what support is available in Surrey

Executive functions are cognitive skills that govern processes like a person’s ability to work to a goal; to regulate their emotions; control impulses, manage time, and stay focused on non-interesting activities. It also affects one’s working memory (the ability to use the information stored in short-term memory to solve problems, make decisions and remember instructions) as well as the ability to organise and transition through tasks.

Executive functioning difficulties

• Big emotions

• Impaired sense of time

• Trouble getting started (procrastination)

• Trouble following through (decision making, memory, organisation)

• Easily overwhelmed

• Easily distracted / Struggle to stay focused

• Low impulse control

In children, executive functioning difficulties show up as emotional responses that seem out of proportion to the situation (big emotions). They may struggle with sensing the passage of time, or gauging how long a task will take. They may have trouble getting started on tasks or developing a plan to see them through. They may not remember instructions even after being told. They can be easily overwhelmed by the scope of a task.

It’s important to understand that these difficulties are not a personal or moral failing, nor do they show lack of caring or effort. They are reflections of a different brain neurology that, while struggling with executive functioning, are also highly skilled and competent in other areas. It’s often seen in people diagnosed with ADHD, autism, learning difficulties, giftedness and anxiety.

Neurodivergent children need support. It’s vitally important to build their confidence and a positive sense-of-self as early as possible. A child counselor in Surrey will help them and their parents/caretakers understand why they struggle, so they can develop alternate strategies and coping mechanisms.

Child counselling support in Surrey

• Breaking tasks down into manageable steps

• Help with planning, organisation, and meeting deadlines

• Managing overwhelm and big emotions

• Parental support

Executive functioning coaching covers topics such as breaking tasks down into manageable steps; how to successfully plan, organise, and meet deadlines; and managing overwhelm and big emotions.

Parents are also supported in understanding their child’s wiring. A counsellor will help to create routines, systems, and strategies to smooth communication, family dynamics and daily life. 

Since this is neurological (a brain-wiring one is born with) this isn’t something a child grows out of. So teenagers, young adults and even parents may find themselves struggling in the same way. However, it’s never too late to seek help and learn to accommodate these differences.

If you think your child would benefit from this kind of support, speak with a child counsellor in Surrey to take the next step.

Alison and her clinical team specialise in family counselling, including children and teens, and young adults. We are very happy to speak with you and answer any of your questions in person, by email or phone: 604-372-1545.