Bring your EF skills with you. You’ll need them!

This weekend, as I was standing on a platform 25 feet above the ground hooking my carabiners into the safety line, I was reminded that executive function skills are required everywhere. 
 
It was my son’s 10th birthday and he wanted to go into the trees at Treetop Adventures in Canton, MA. Indeed, these kinds of courses are a great way to build self-confidence and practice tackling difficult challenges. It also presents an executive function skill-rich environment. Without even realizing it, we employed our executive function skills to move around the park safely. 

1. Prioritized tasks: We had to determine the most important steps to complete first. In this instance, it was always to connect our carabiner to the safety line, then map out our plan for the obstacle. 
2. Problem-solving: Assessing each obstacle’s unique challenges, we identified potential solutions and chose the most effective approach for each of us. It always looked a little different depending whose turn it was.
3. Flexibility: We were adaptable and adjusted our strategies when necessary, such as changing our grip or body position. 
4. Followed a specific sequence: We had to complete certain steps in a particular order to ensure safety and success.
5. Focus: We stayed present and focused on the task at hand, avoided distractions to the best of our abilities, and maintained a positive mindset: I can do it!

With all of the executive function skills we put into practice, the adventure was both physically and mentally taxing. It was similar to how many students feel at the end of a busy day. Executive function skills truly are tools for learning and skills for life. 

Wishing everyone a great start to the 2024-2025 school year!