In this section:
1 What do we mean when we talk about organisational, sequencing, prioritising difficulties (poor executive function skills)?
2 How can we best support these challenges?
3. Homework!
A ♥ indicates images that follow are hyperlinked
1 What do we mean when we talk about organisational difficulties (poor executive function skills)?
♥Executive function difficulties are common in autistic people, however, these challenges are not particular to autism. When we talk about poor executive function we are referring to the ability to organise, sequence and prioritise everyday tasks, plan daily activities, manage our time effectively and grade and regulate our emotions. Advice from the National Autistic Society explains why these things are such a challenge for autistic children and young people.
♥From Chalkboard Superhero, this visual summarises executive function skills really well. Click on the image for further advice. Also info about using workstations.
Also see Question 1 for a link to EPIC Think Learn resources
♥From NLC Communication Friendly – visuals that can be used with learners or parents/carers.
♥This article includes a short video explaining EF challenges. There’s also advice for parents/carers and school staff.
♥‘Executive functioning problems in autism: a personal perspective’. A brilliant article by an adult with executive functioning difficulties. It illustrates how these difficulties don’t disappear – autistic children grow into autistic adults with the same core difficulties. A highly recommended read!
2 How can we best support these challenges?
♥ From EPIC Think Learn (a spin-out company from Edinburgh University) to help you understand and plan interventions for poor executive functioning skills. You’ll need to scroll down the page and register to get free copies.
♥Greater Glasgow & Clyde have developed a great downloadable pack which includes helpful hints and tips on how to support executive function difficulties.
Some more suggestions …
From NHS Lanarkshire Children and Young People, Occupational Therapy; a strategy to help those young people who struggle with organisation. A fab (and easy to do) suggestion for teaching and supporting independence.
With high school offering numerous different subject per day, remaining organised can provide a challenge for some children.
Having your child colour code each subject means they would have matching coloured folders in their bag with all the required items for that subject.
The below example shows a timetable with maths in green. With this, your child would have a green folder in their bag with a pencil, rubber and ruler. This simple strategy can reduce the stress for your child and support organisation.
Here are some examples of visuals used to support organisational difficulties. Sometimes just looking through resources sparks an idea to use with a child/young person you are supporting.
♥You can download this one from the Autism Toolbox
3. Homework!
♥Homework for autistic children can be a real challenge. sometimes it’s to do with poor organisation and planning skills. Here’s some advice from the National Autistic Society.
♥A homework planning sheet might be helpful for some learners from Jill Kuzma.
Sound advice on homework from Lynn McCann at Reachout ASC.
