Executive Function Skills Made Simple for Parents

“Go upstairs, brush your teeth, put your pajamas on, and bring your backpack down.”

If that sounds familiar… and your child only makes it halfway through… you’re not alone.

Following multi-step directions isn’t just about listening. It’s about executive function — the brain skills that help children plan, remember, organize, and complete tasks.

Here’s how to strengthen those skills in everyday life.

What’s Really Happening in the Brain?

When a child hears multi-step directions, they must:

• 🔹 Hold the information in working memory
• 🔹 Organize the steps in order
• 🔹 Inhibit distractions
• 🔹 Shift from one task to the next
• 🔹 Monitor whether they completed everything

That’s a LOT for a developing brain.

Executive function continues developing into the mid-20s — so younger children often need scaffolding, not more reminders.

Signs Your Child May Struggle with Multi-Step Directions

• Completes only the first step
• Says “What?” frequently after directions
• Forgets the middle step
• Gets distracted between tasks
• Appears defiant but may actually be overwhelmed
• Needs repeated prompts for daily routines

How to Teach Multi-Step Directions (Step-by-Step)

1️⃣ Start Small

If your child struggles with 3 steps, begin with 2.

Instead of:
“Get your shoes, coat, and backpack.”

Try:
“Get your shoes and coat.”

Build up gradually as success improves.

2️⃣ Use the “Repeat Back” Strategy

Have your child say the directions back to you.

Example:
Parent: “Put your folder in your backpack and bring it to the car.”
Child: “Folder in backpack, then bring it to the car.”

This strengthens working memory immediately.

3️⃣ Break It Into Visual Supports

Visuals reduce cognitive load.

• Picture schedules
• Written checklists
• Dry erase routine boards
• Sticky note reminders

Many children perform better when they can see the steps.

4️⃣ Teach “First–Then” Language

This helps children sequence tasks.

“First clean up the toys, then we can go outside.”

Eventually expand to:
“First… next… last…”

5️⃣ Reduce Background Distractions

Executive function collapses under overload.

Before giving directions:

• Make eye contact
• Turn off TV/music
• Ensure you have their attention

Then give instructions calmly and clearly.

6️⃣ Turn It Into a Game

Games build executive function naturally.

Try:

• “Simon Says”
• Obstacle courses with 2–3 steps
• Scavenger hunts
• Cooking with simple step sequencing

Play builds planning skills without pressure.

When to Seek Extra Support

Consider a speech-language or executive function evaluation if your child:

• Consistently cannot follow 2-step directions by age 4–5
• Struggles significantly with daily routines
• Shows difficulty with organization and task completion at school
• Becomes highly frustrated or shuts down

Executive function challenges are common in children with:

• ADHD
• Language delays
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Learning differences

Early support improves independence and confidence.

A Quick Parent Reminder

Needing help with directions does not mean your child is lazy or oppositional.

It often means their brain needs structure — not pressure.

With the right strategies, these skills grow.

Executive Function Coaching Now Available

At iRehab Services, we also offer a dedicated Executive Functioning Coaching Program for children and teens who need more structured, individualized support.

This program is:

• ✔️ Tailored to each child’s specific needs
• ✔️ Focused on real-life skills (organization, planning, routines, homework systems, time management)
• ✔️ Practical and strategy-based
• ✔️ Designed to build independence and confidence

No prescription or physician referral is required to begin executive functioning coaching.

Whether your child needs support with school routines, task completion, emotional regulation during transitions, or long-term planning skills — we create a customized plan that fits your family.

iRehab Services

We support children across Michigan with executive function, language, and communication development.

We offer:

• In-person services at our clinic in Sterling Heights
• Home health visits
• Community-based sessions
• Telehealth across the state of Michigan

📞 Call 248.252.6064
📧 Email marcia@irehabservices.com

Let’s build strong brains — one step at a time.