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Executive Functioning: FREE Parenting Workshop from Encompass

By Encompass Staff April 28, 2016
Encompass strives to be on the cutting edge when it comes to research related to early childhood development. 
Science has discovered that the brain is still developing and is “plastic” so to speak until one reaches 25-30 years old.  As we continue to learn more about brain development and building executive function in children, we are compelled to share this critical information with parents.   
 
What is Executive Function? 

Executive function is the brain’s “air traffic control system”,  which  allows  us  to  manage multiple streams of information at the same time, control impulses and revise tasks as necessary. Research shows us the early building blocks of these skills is critical to school readiness and social development through middle school, adolescence, and into early adult life.
 
The components of executive function consist of working memory, mental flexibility, and inhibitory control. Essentially, it is the mental skills that help you get things done. Executive function helps us manage time, pay attention, switch focus, plan and organize, and remember details.  When executive function isn’t working as it should, behavior is less controlled. These skills are critical for success in school and beyond. 

How to Build Executive Function? 
The good news is that executive function can be built through experience and practice.  Practice occurs for children through PLAY!  Familiar games from our childhood are great at building these important skills.  “Simon says”, “freeze dance” and playing pretend are just a few easy and fun ways help your children develop cognitively.    
 
Want to Learn More? 

We are excited to offer a FREE Parenting Workshop - The Basics of Executive Functioning at Virginia Mason in Issaquah on Thursday, May 5, 2016 from 6p- 7:30pm.

To register go to www.goencompassnw.org