Take the problem, and break it into pieces that are easy to tackle. Use external motivation, like points systems, being accountable to others at work and school, daily school report cards - anything that reinforces accomplishing goals. Make time external by using clocks, timers, computers, counters, and other devices that track time intervals. For example, put time into helping redesign the environment to help people with EFD remember what they need to be doing.Īdults can compensate for working memory deficits by making information external - using cards, signs, symbols, sticky notes, lists, journals, and apps. Be more structured and systematic by implementing checklists, planners, and timers to help kids with tasks.įor people with EFD, it’s important not to just focus on teaching new information, but also on teaching the skills they need to better use the knowledge they have.
Encourage the things the child is doing well with external reinforcement and then bring in mild forms of discipline if necessary, like taking away points or privileges. Focus first on the positives before the negatives. Additional accommodations like splitting assignments into small pieces, and giving frequent breaks can help supplement problem areas, and give the executive system a chance to recharge.Īdd rewards and privileges at home if the child does well at school. If your child does not qualify for these, a teacher may try informal accommodations, like seating a child near the front of the room. Parents can request special accommodations at school via a 504 Plan or individualized education program (IEP).
CBT is less effective with children.įor children, behavior modification programs like token systems and daily report cards work better. Cognitive behavioral therapy, used in combination with medication to treat any coexisting conditions like ADHD, is very effective at treating executive dysfunction including problems with inhibition, emotion regulation, time management, and planning in adults.
The first method uses occupational or speech therapists, psychologists, or reading tutors to learn how to work around problem areas. Experts recommend a range of strategies to help strengthen the areas of weakness that executive function disorder (EFD) creates.