Have you ever wondered why some kids or adults with autism struggle with planning, organization, or switching between tasks?
Executive functioning is like the brain’s control center—it helps us manage time, remember important details, and shift gears when needed. But for many people with autism, these skills don’t come easily. Instead, everyday tasks can feel overwhelming, like juggling too many things at once without a clear system to keep everything in check.
Understanding Executive Functioning in Autism
Executive functioning is a set of mental skills that help with decision-making, problem-solving, and self-regulation. For those on the autism spectrum, these skills can develop differently or be more challenging to use in daily life. This doesn’t mean they aren’t capable—it just means they may need different strategies to succeed.
Dr. Ellen Reed and Dr. Jason Selk often talk about how executive functioning isn’t about intelligence. Someone can be incredibly smart but still struggle with things like getting started on tasks or finishing them on time. The issue isn’t knowing what to do—it’s figuring out *how* to do it efficiently.
Common Challenges with Executive Functioning
One of the biggest struggles I see in those with autism is **task initiation**—getting started on something, even when they know it’s important. It’s not laziness; it’s like their brain hits a pause button, making it difficult to move forward.
Another challenge is **working memory**. Imagine trying to follow multi-step instructions but forgetting what comes next halfway through. That’s what happens when working memory isn’t as strong, making it tough to hold onto information long enough to use it.
Then there’s **cognitive flexibility**, or the ability to switch between different activities or perspectives. This can be incredibly tough for someone with autism. If they’ve planned out their day in a certain way, an unexpected change can feel like a complete derailment.
How This Plays Out in Everyday Life
Many people on the spectrum describe feeling like they’re constantly playing catch-up. They know what needs to get done, but organizing those steps into a logical order can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces.
One person shared that they’d start cleaning their room, but the second they picked up a book, they’d sit down to read it instead. Before they knew it, an hour had passed, and the room was still messy. It’s not that they didn’t want to clean—it’s that their executive functioning made it hard to stay on track.
Practical Strategies for Improvement
The good news is that executive functioning skills *can* be strengthened with the right tools and strategies. One approach I always recommend is using a daily journal. Writing things down makes tasks feel more structured and manageable.
Another great strategy is setting up **visual schedules**. This helps break big tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Instead of saying “clean your room,” a schedule might say:
- Pick up clothes
- Put books on the shelf
- Throw away trash
When each step is clearly laid out, it reduces the overwhelming feeling of *where do I even start?*
How Parents Can Help
For parents, it’s all about **patience and consistency**. It’s easy to get frustrated when your child seems to ignore simple instructions, but remember—it’s not intentional. Instead of saying, “Why haven’t you done your homework?” try asking, “What’s the first step you need to do for your homework?” This small shift can make a huge difference.
Another helpful approach is teaching kids how to develop their **own** executive functioning skills. A great way to do this is by encouraging executive functioning exercises like time-blocking, prioritizing tasks, or using checklists.
Final Thoughts
Executive functioning is a challenge for many people with autism, but that doesn’t mean they can’t succeed. With the right tools, strategies, and support, they can learn to manage tasks more effectively and feel more in control of their daily lives.
Want more practical tips? Check out this helpful guide on executive functioning or read this article for more insights.
References
- Autism Speaks. "Executive Functioning." Autism Speaks, https://www.autismspeaks.org/executive-functioning.
- AANE. "Executive Functioning Explained." AANE, https://aane.org/autism-info-faqs/library/executive-functioning-explained/.
- Level Up Game Plan. "Managing Parental Anxiety." Level Up Game Plan, https://levelupgameplan.com/mindful-parenting-resources/6618/managing-parental-anxiety.
- Level Up Game Plan. "5 Simple Strategies for Boosting Executive Functioning Skills." Level Up Game Plan, https://levelupgameplan.com/mindful-parenting-resources/6707/5-simple-strategies-for-boosting-executive-functioning-skills.