F1F: Executive Function: What It Is and Why It Matters

Executive function skills are the foundation for learning, independence, self-regulation, and success across home, school, work, and community settings. This session will provide an overview of executive function, including the cognitive processes that help individuals plan, organize, initiate tasks, manage emotions, sustain attention, and achieve goals. Participants will explore how executive function skills develop, how challenges can impact daily functioning, and practical strategies to support executive function across the lifespan. Special consideration will be given to the needs of individuals on the autism spectrum and others who may experience executive function challenges.

Learning Outcomes:

Define executive function and identify the core cognitive skills that contribute to planning, organization, self-regulation, and goal-directed behavior.

Recognize the impact of executive function challenges on learning, communication, social interactions, daily living, and overall independence.

Identify practical strategies and supports that can be used to strengthen executive function skills in educational, home, and community environments.

Speakers