Executive Function: Evaluation & Treatment for Pediatrics (Schafer-Clay)

Course overview

The Handbook of Clinical Neurology defines executive function as a high-level cognitive process that enables people to complete complex cognitive processes. Executive function includes three core cognitive processes: namely working memory, inhibition and flexibility, and it has a regulating effect on people's behavior with a mediating role in sensory processing and behavioral performance. Many pediatric diagnoses include predominant symptomology of executive functioning disorders. However, the executive function of children is pliable and malleable. As therapists, we should know which evaluations are available, and which evidence-based treatments can be used for improved executive functioning as needed for age-appropriate activity engagement. This course will present proven evaluation tools and treatment strategies to address executive functioning delays. Understanding the evidence pertaining to executive functioning in children and adolescents will improve reimbursement for treatment of these clients, support, and education you can provide to families, and address the needs of the whole client including these cognitive delays. This course will help therapists treating executive function delays improve evaluation and treatment in their pediatric clients.