Thinking & Problem-Solving Skills (Executive Function & Cognition)
Executive function skills are like the “control centre” of the brain. They help children plan, organise, remember, and manage their emotions and behaviour. These thinking and problem-solving skills are essential for success in school readiness, learning, independence, and daily life routines.
When children struggle with executive function, they may find it hard to concentrate, follow instructions, or manage time – which can affect academic performance, social interactions, and self-confidence.
Key Executive Function & Cognitive Skills
Occupational therapists look at a wide range of skills that impact how children think and learn:
Attention and focus – being able to concentrate on tasks without becoming easily distracted.
Working memory – holding on to information long enough to use it (e.g., remembering multi-step instructions).
Planning and organisation – knowing what steps are needed to complete a task.
Problem-solving – adapting when things don’t go as expected.
Impulse control – stopping and thinking before acting.
Flexible thinking – shifting from one idea or task to another when plans change.
Self-monitoring – checking work, recognising mistakes, and correcting them.
Everyday Examples
Children use executive function every day, often without us noticing:
Following morning and bedtime routines.
Remembering what to pack for school.
Completing homework or classwork independently.
Playing games with rules.
Managing emotions when frustrated.
Working as part of a team.
Signs a Child May Need Support
Parents and teachers may notice difficulties such as:
Forgetting instructions or losing track of what they are doing.
Struggling with organisation (messy school bag, incomplete homework).
Finding it difficult to start or finish tasks.
Becoming easily frustrated when problem-solving.
Difficulty managing time or moving on when routines change.
Needing frequent reminders to stay on task.
How Occupational Therapy Can Help
An occupational therapist can:
Assess strengths and challenges in executive function and cognition.
Use play-based learning, structured routines, and visual supports to build skills.
Teach strategies for planning, organisation, and flexible thinking.
Support children in managing frustration, increasing resilience, and improving independence.
Collaborate with parents and teachers to adapt environments for success.
Supporting Thinking & Problem-Solving at Home
Parents and caregivers can help by:
Using visual schedules, charts, and checklists to support memory and routines.
Breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
Playing board games, puzzles, and card games that encourage strategy and flexible thinking.
Encouraging your child to “think aloud” when solving problems.
Allowing extra time for transitions between activities.
Modelling calm problem-solving when things go wrong.
When to Seek Support
If your child regularly struggles with organisation, attention, problem-solving, or independence, occupational therapy for executive function and cognitive skills can provide tailored strategies to build confidence and success in both academic learning and everyday life.
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