Encompass is offering parents a free workshop on “Strengthening Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills,” in October.

What exactly is “executive functioning”?Essentially, these are mental skills that help us get things done, including self-control, remembering rules, and adapting when a plan changes. Children aren’t born with these skills, but can develop them.

Problems with executive functioning are often noticed when children start school.

Participants will gain insight into these skills, which can be predictors of school readiness and success. Like all skills, executive functioning can be strengthened. There are strategies to use at home to improve impulse control, working memory, and flexible thinking.

The workshop is offered on two days: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, at Snoqualmie Valley YMCA, 35018 SE Ridge St. Snoqualmie; and 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, at Sammamish Community YMCA, 831 228th Ave. SE Sammamish.

Register in advance at goencompassnw.org. Childcare is available, provided by the YMCA, no preregistration required.

For more information, contact Sandra “Sam” Sinanan at (425) 888.2777 ext. 1226 or send email to sandra.sinanan@encompassnw.org.