Understanding Executive Functioning and Social Filters in Kids with ADHD and ASD and Strategies to Help (Part 2)

Parenting kids with ADHD and ASD involves navigating a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to executive functioning and social filters. In this blog post, we'll jump into the connection between them, shedding light on how understanding and supporting your child's executive functioning can positively impact their social interactions.

1. Executive Functioning: The Captain of the Ship

Definition: Executive functioning refers to a set of mental skills that help kids manage time, pay attention, switch focus, plan and organize, remember details, and control their impulses. Think of it as the captain steering the ship through the seas of daily life.

Impact on Social Interactions: For kids with ADHD and ASD, executive functioning challenges can make it tricky to navigate social situations smoothly. Difficulty with impulse control, planning, and staying organized may affect the way they express themselves and understand social cues.

2. Social Filters: The Social GPS

Definition: Social filters are like a built-in GPS for communication. They help kids decide what to say, how much to share, and when it's appropriate to express certain thoughts or feelings. In kids with ADHD and ASD, these filters might need a bit more calibration.

Impact on Social Interactions: Trouble with social filters can lead to oversharing or difficulty recognizing when certain information is best kept private. Kids might unintentionally share personal details or struggle to gauge the appropriateness of their words in different social settings.

3. The connection Between Executive Functioning and Social Filters

Impulse Control:

• Executive Functioning: Challenges with impulse control can result in spontaneous actions and comments without considering social norms.

• Social Filters: A well-tuned social filter helps in pausing and thinking before expressing thoughts, aligning with social expectations.

Planning and Organization:

• Executive Functioning: Difficulties in planning may impact the ability to structure conversations effectively.

• Social Filters: An organized mind assists in arranging thoughts coherently, contributing to clearer communication.

Flexibility and Adaptability:

• Executive Functioning: Challenges in switching focus might lead to difficulties in adapting to shifting social dynamics.

• Social Filters: Flexibility allows for adjusting communication styles based on the context, creating smoother interactions.

4. Strategies for Support

Visual and Verbal Aids and Reminders:

• Create visual and verbal cues that serve as reminders for social filters. These can be simple prompts or a visual cues to help your child anticipate and adjust their communication.

Role Playing:

• Engage in role playing activities to practice social interactions in a safe and controlled environment. This helps kids with ADHD and ASD develop a better understanding of social cues and appropriate responses.

Executive Functioning Support:

• Provide support for executive functioning challenges by establishing routines, breaking tasks into manageable steps, and offering consistent guidance. A structured environment can positively impact social interactions.

Social Stories:

• Develop social stories that illustrate scenarios where executive functioning and social filters play a role. These stories can help kids with ADHD and ASD grasp the cause-and-effect relationships in social interactions.

5. Celebrating Progress and Building Confidence

Positive Reinforcement:

• Celebrate small victories and progress. Positive reinforcement boosts confidence and encourages continued efforts in refining executive functioning and social filter skills.

Open Communication:

• Foster open communication at home. Encourage your child to share their experiences, challenges, and successes, creating a supportive environment for their social growth.

Summing it up:

Understanding the connection between executive functioning and social filters is key to supporting kids with ADHD and ASD. By implementing tailored strategies and building a supportive atmosphere, parents can empower their children to navigate social waters with confidence, enhancing their overall wellbeing and social success.

Remember, every small step forward is a triumph, and with patience, understanding, and love, you're guiding your child toward a brighter, socially enriched future.