A game to improve your child's executive functioning

What:

Let's play a game called, 'What is missing?'

Materials needed:

A small blanket or a scarf (not see through).

Some small toys or objects that your child is familiar with -- for example: a small car, a block, a small rock, a leaf etc.

How:

1. First, show your child each item and name them. Make sure your child knows all items.

2. Cover items with a blanket.

3. Ask your child to cover her/his eyes and then take one item out without your child looking.

4. Open the blanket and ask your child which item is missing.

Tips:

• For young children, start with three items and add more when your child masters noticing what is missing with three.

• For older children, let them lead the game and you guess what's missing.

Outcome:

This game helps your child improve their working memory and impulse control, and teaches them how to follow rules. These executive function skills build self-control and flexible thinking, which will benefit your child later on in life including during planning, studying, and working.