What do you call a set of processes that have to do with managing oneself and one’s resources in order to achieve a goal?

Stated another way, what do these abilities describe?

• Paying attention
• Organizing, planning and prioritizing
• Starting a task and staying focused on it to completion
• Understanding different points of view
• Regulating emotions
• Self-monitoring or keeping track of what you’re doing

The answer is one’s Executive Function.

Many of us take these abilities for granted. When we arise in the morning we automatically are in charge of the day and our tasks. We have our weekly planners filled in from last week, our alarm reminders are set and the “to do” list is made. Most of us have been groomed over 12 to 16 or more years of schooling to complete assignments on time and keep schedules. This helps when we transition to the real world of having a job or career.

For those with a cognitive disability such as autism or Down syndrome, executive functioning is a big challenge. This is especially a large hurdle to overcome when it comes to employment and holding a regular job. But executive function skills can be learned with simple tools, embracing new technologies, and help from a job coach.

Here are the typical steps I’ve taken in working with clients.

1. Begin with having a goal. The overall goal is independence and to be independent one needs to be working, not only for income but more importantly, for a sense of purpose.
2. Tools such as weekly planners and cell phones with a notepad app will help in keeping appointments and taking notes. I prefer the 5.5 x 8-inch weekly/monthly planner. However, not everyone is comfortable writing, so a simple flip phone with a notepad will suffice as long as you use it.
3. I don’t know how many times I’ve had to tell my guys to check their emails and phones. Gmail accounts are user friendly and easier to maneuver through since there are separate inboxes for spam, advertising and social media. Smart phones are great with microphones to talk into instead of typing messages. I’m looking forward to seeing how one of my Downs clients will handle a new iPhone.
4. A dry-erase board in the bedroom or kitchen can help with daily prompts written for checking the phone, email, taking pills, and charging the phone at night.
5. Once in a job, clients need help keeping track of tasks and times to do them. A simple task reminder card with bullet points can be laminated and kept in an apron or shirt pocket. Some businesses and agencies have invested in the Work Autonomy app for various Apple devices. The app is downloaded on an iPad and displays menus for schedules, messages and production processes.

Whether you’re a parent, relative or support person for someone with autism or other intellectual disability, take the time necessary and exercise over-the-top patience in helping them learn the skills to function as independently as possible.