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What games help develop executive function skills? 

PostedOctober 1, 2025
UpdatedOctober 6, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice

Playing games for executive function ADHD can be a powerful way to build focus, memory, and self-regulation in children. These games challenge the brain in ways that feel like fun rather than hard work, making them ideal for both home and classroom settings. 

Through structured play, children can practise planning, impulse control, and flexible thinking. Repeating games for executive function ADHD supports daily routines and builds the foundation for future learning and behaviour. 

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How It Helps 

Card and board games 

Games like Go Fish, Uno, and Memory help with working memory and turn-taking. These ADHD educational games also teach patience and strategic thinking. 

Movement-based games 

Simon Says and freeze dance boost impulse control and body awareness. These are excellent fun activities ADHD children enjoy while building brain-body coordination. 

Strategy and problem-solving games 

Games like Connect 4, Chess, or puzzles improve planning and flexible thinking. These support play-based executive skills and encourage children to think ahead. 

Role-playing and storytelling 

Acting out stories or imaginary scenarios strengthens cognitive flexibility and emotional understanding, key skills in executive function growth. 

Including games for executive function ADHD into daily life makes skill-building natural and enjoyable. With the right activities, children can develop the tools they need to manage challenges and succeed in school and social settings. 

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.

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Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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. 

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