Executive Functioning Skills

Executive functioning skills are the mental processes that enable us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, juggle multiple tasks, and regulate our emotions. Think of these skills as the 'air traffic control system' of the brain - they help manage and direct our thoughts, actions, and emotions to reach our goals.

Why Are These Skills Important?

Executive functioning skills are crucial for:

• Academic success and learning efficiency
• Social relationships and emotional well-being
• Future career readiness and life skills
• Self-regulation and independent living
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities

Developing Executive Functioning Skills in Lakeside

Executive Functioning skills are introduced and practised at every level to equip students with these skills that are crucial for learning and development. At least 2 skills are taught at each level at the beginning of each year. These skills are inculcated during lessons, CCAs and other teachable moments in their journey.

We have also come up with some mascots to help our students better remember the various Executive Functioning skills!

Do watch the video to get to know our mascots!

How can parents partner the school in developing executive functioning skills at home?

1. Read through the list of observable behaviours in the coloured boxes.
• Observe your child in various situations over a period of time
• Note which behaviours your child consistently displays and which ones they might struggle with
2. Affirm your child if they can display the skill
• Use the EF mascots to highlight the positive behaviours eg: You are always able to stay focus on completing your homework. Well done, On-Task Tiger!
3. Identify 2 or 3 skills to focus on and strengthen
• Sit down with your child and discuss which skills they would like to focus on
• Prioritise skills that will have the most immediate positive impact on their daily life
• Break down complex skills into smaller, manageable steps
• Set realistic goals and timelines for improvement
• Consider both school and home environments when selecting skills to work on
4. Plan activities that can help develop these skills
• Create structured routines
• Use visual aids like checklists, schedules, and timers
• Incorporate games and activities that target specific skills:
• Memory games for working memory
• Board games for planning and strategy
• Time-based challenges for time management
• Organisation projects for sorting and categorising
5. Make learning these skills fun and engaging through:
• Role-playing scenarios
• Family activities that require planning
• Interactive digital apps designed for executive function development