How do executive functions develop in children with ADHD?

PostedOctober 1, 2025

UpdatedOctober 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Executive function development ADHD refers to the growth of cognitive abilities such as planning, organisation, attention, and impulse control in children with ADHD. These skills are critical for managing tasks, making decisions, and controlling emotions. In children with ADHD, these functions often develop differently, presenting challenges as they progress through childhood.

Childhood ADHD executive skills typically develop more slowly than in children without ADHD. As the brain matures, executive function skills improve, but in children with ADHD, this process can be delayed or inconsistent. They may struggle more with tasks like remembering instructions, managing time, and controlling impulses, which can lead to difficulties at school and in social settings.

How It Helps

Brain Development ADHD

Brain development ADHD plays a significant role in the development of executive functions. The prefrontal cortex, which controls these functions, matures later in children with ADHD. As the brain grows, children may show gradual improvements in their ability to organise, plan, and regulate behaviour, though these improvements may take longer.

Growth of Executive Function

The growth of executive function in children with ADHD can be supported through targeted interventions such as behavioural therapy, ADHD coaching, and structured routines. These strategies can help children improve their executive skills, making it easier for them to cope with the demands of school and daily life.

In conclusion, executive function development ADHD occurs over time, with some delays in comparison to typical development. Understanding how childhood ADHD executive skills evolve helps in providing the right support and interventions to foster these essential cognitive abilities.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Executive Function Deficits.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.