Supporting Struggling Minds: Executive Function Explained

In this compelling episode of the Able to Care podcast, I’m joined by Belinda Eddington, Executive Function Coach and founder of MindSpark CIC. Together, we unpack one of the most misunderstood and essential aspects of human development – executive functioning. From how children plan, organise and regulate emotions, to how adults can support growth through understanding, Belinda shares her passion, research and practical strategies for educators, carers and parents. Whether you’re raising a child, working in a school, or simply trying to understand your own thinking a bit better – this episode is full of lightbulb moments. 🛍️ Sponsored by Carers Card UK We’re proud to be sponsored by Carers Card UK – the UK’s #1 discount card for unpaid and paid carers. 💷 Enjoy thousands of pounds worth of savings 📲 Access emergency ID, wellbeing tools, and a private carers community 🛒 Discounts on days out, clothing, gyms, eyewear, and more ➡️ Get yours today: Click Here 🧰 Resources Mentioned MindSpark CIC: Find Out More  MindSpark Coach Training: Find Out More  Books: Smart but Scattered series – Peg Dawson The Developing Mind – Dr Dan Siegel The Body Keeps the Score – Bessel van der Kolk Via Strengths Questionnaire: www.viacharacter.org Andy Baker’s Book: Targeting the Positive with Behaviours That Challenge 🔑 Three Key Messages Executive function is not just academic – it’s foundational. These brain-based skills shape behaviour, learning, self-regulation and relationships. Understanding comes before intervention. Rather than focusing on the ‘what’, shift your mindset to ask ‘why’ – be a detective, not a judge. Support builds from strength. Executive functioning challenges are real – but with compassion, coaching, and the right scaffolds, growth is absolutely possible. ⏱️ Episode Chapters 00:00 – Sponsored message: Carers Card UK 01:55 – Welcome & topic introduction 02:05 – Meet Belinda: background and expertise 04:00 – What is executive functioning? Explained 07:00 – Real-world examples of executive function challenges 12:00 – How trauma, stress, and neurodivergence impact EF 18:00 – Strategies: scaffolding, coaching, metacognition 24:00 – Behaviour, mindsets, and flipping the lid 32:00 – Embedding executive function into school culture 40:00 – Belinda’s research in schools and findings 51:00 – Strength-based conversations and personalised support 54:00 – Final reflections and why this matters 🎧 Why Listen to This Episode? You’ll finally understand what executive functioning means – and why it matters for every child and adult. Belinda offers practical examples for supporting children who struggle with memory, planning, or emotional control. If you work in schools, care, or parenting – this episode will help you spot challenges earlier and respond more compassionately. Plus, we explore how your own regulation as a professional or parent influences your ability to support others. 🔗 Stay Connected Follow Able to Care for more compassionate conversations that empower carers, educators and parents: 📺 YouTube: Able to Care Channel 📸 Instagram: @AbleTraining 💼 LinkedIn:  Able Training 🌐 Website: AbleHub.uk 📲 TikTok:  @AbleToCarePodcast