What Is Executive Function (and Why It Matters for Kids with ADHD)?

It’s 7:15 on a Tuesday morning. Your child knows it's time to leave the house at 7:30, but they’re still wandering around in pajamas, their lunchbox is somewhere in the house (maybe?), and they’re melting down because the library book they need has disappeared.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And it’s not about laziness, defiance, or a lack of intelligence. What’s often at play here is something called executive function.

What Is Executive Function?

Think of executive function (EF) as the GPS of the brain. It helps us plan the route, stay on course, and adjust when there’s a detour.

For kids, these skills allow them to follow directions, manage time, and control impulses.

When executive function skills are strong, a child can:

• Start homework without reminders.

• Remember what to bring for soccer practice.

• Shift gears when plans change.

• Stay calm long enough to finish a tricky math problem.

When EF is weak, as is often the case for children with ADHD, even simple tasks can feel like trying to get somewhere without a map or directions.

The Core Executive Function Skills

Researchers group EF skills into several categories. Here are the ones most critical for kids with ADHD:

• Planning & Organization – Breaking down tasks, making lists, keeping track of belongings.

• Task Initiation – Getting started without endless procrastination or avoidance.

• Working Memory – Holding information in mind while using it (like remembering multi-step directions).

• Time Management – Estimating how long something will take and sticking to a schedule.

• Self-Control & Emotional Regulation – Thinking before acting, managing frustration, and calming big emotions.

• Flexibility & Problem-Solving – Shifting when plans change, trying new strategies, or adapting to surprises.

Each of these skills develops gradually and kids with ADHD may need extra support and intentional practice to build them.

Why Executive Function Matters for Kids with ADHD

Kids with ADHD aren’t lacking intelligence, creativity, or capability. But ADHD often impacts the frontal lobe of the brain, which is where executive functions live.

That means many children with ADHD experience:

• Losing track of materials (“Where’s my backpack?!”).

• Struggles starting homework or chores without reminders.

• Meltdowns when routines change unexpectedly.

• Inconsistent performance (“They did it yesterday, why not today?”).

These struggles can affect not just school, but also friendships, family routines, and a child’s self-esteem.

Signs Your Child May Be Struggling with EF

Every child has off days, but if you notice patterns like these, executive function challenges may be a factor:

• Avoids starting tasks, even familiar ones.

• Trouble following multi-step instructions.

• Frequently forgets or misplaces items.

• Becomes frustrated or stuck when routines shift.

• Needs constant reminders to stay on task.

• Has a hard time keeping emotions in check.

Recognizing these signs is the first step toward offering the right support.

The Good News: Executive Function Can Be Strengthened

The encouraging part? Executive function isn’t fixed. These are skills that can be taught, practiced, and supported. With the right strategies, kids can grow in their ability to plan, focus, regulate emotions, and problem-solve.

That’s why we've created resources designed to help families and educators get started.

Resource Highlight: Executive Function Overview Toolkit

This toolkit gives you a simple, parent- and kid-friendly way to introduce executive function. Inside, you’ll find:

• Skill Posters with clear explanations and real-life examples.

• A Quick Reference Guide for parents and teachers with strategies for each skill.

• A “Brain’s GPS” Poster to help kids visualize EF in action.

• An EF Strengths & Growth Worksheet to identify areas of ease vs. challenge.

• A Daily EF Tracker to build awareness and celebrate progress.

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Executive Function Roadmap Toolkit | Posters, Worksheets, and Daily Tracker

Help kids understand, practice, and grow their executive function skills with this complete Executive Function Toolkit Bundle!Executive function skills are the "brain's GPS"-they help kids plan, organize, manage time, control impulses, and follow through on tasks. These skills are critical for succe...

Coming Next: Planning, Organization, and Task Initiation

This post kicks off a 6-part series on executive function. In the next post, we’ll dive into planning, organization, and task initiation, with practical tips you can use at home or in the classroom.

Because while ADHD may make executive function harder, with the right tools and support, your child can thrive.