At Art Smith, we’re dedicated to helping students develop strong executive functioning and self-regulation skills in the classroom. These skills—which include planning, organizing, focusing attention, managing time, and controlling impulses—are essential for academic success and life beyond school. However, creating consistency between school and home can significantly reinforce these abilities. Below are age-appropriate strategies for parents to support their children’s executive functioning at home—and make it fun!

Kindergarten to Grade 2: Building Foundations

Young children are just beginning to develop their executive functioning skills. At this stage, they need guidance and structure to learn how to manage their emotions and stay organized.

Fun Activities for Home:

• Treasure Hunts: Create simple scavenger hunts where your child has to follow clues and organize items in order.

• Story Sequencing: Read a short story together, then ask your child to retell it in the correct order using pictures or props.

• Emotion Charades: Act out emotions and let your child guess them, then discuss ways to manage those feelings.

• Morning Routines Chart: Work with your child to create a visual chart for their morning routine, using stickers or drawings.

Key Tip: Praise their efforts when they stay focused or follow through on tasks—positive reinforcement builds motivation!

Grades 3 to 5: Strengthening Skills

Children in this age group are ready to take on more responsibility. They’re developing the ability to plan, prioritize, and manage time, but they still need support.

Fun Activities for Home:

• Cooking Together: Follow a recipe step by step to practice planning, measuring, and sequencing.

• Weekly Planner: Help your child decorate and use a planner to track homework, chores, and fun activities.

• Board Games: Games like “Operation” or “Clue” encourage focus, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.

• Time Challenges: Set a timer for tasks like tidying up or completing homework to help them manage time effectively.

Key Tip: Encourage reflection by asking questions like, “What worked well?” and “What could we try differently next time?”

Grades 6 to 9: Fostering Independence

Older students are ready to take more ownership of their executive functioning skills. At this stage, they’re balancing multiple responsibilities and learning to set and achieve goals.

Fun Activities for Home:

• Goal-Setting Challenges: Work together to set a short-term goal (e.g., saving for a new game or mastering a skill) and track progress visually.

• Strategy Games: Games like “Settlers of Catan” or “Ticket to Ride” enhance planning, decision-making, and adaptability.

• Calendar Management: Encourage your child to use digital tools or a wall calendar to manage their school and extracurricular commitments.

• DIY Projects: Undertake a project like building a model, organizing their room, or starting a small garden to practice long-term planning.

Key Tip: Teach problem-solving by encouraging your child to brainstorm solutions when they encounter challenges.

We’re here to support you! If you have questions or want additional resources, please reach out to Mimi Greengrass at mimi.greengrass@nlsd.ab.ca or call the school at (780) 594-1404.