When do executive functions begin to develop?

The development of executive functions begins as early as 9 months of age. This early onset is important because executive functions encompass a range of cognitive processes, including working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control, which begin to emerge in infancy. For example, infants demonstrate signs of problem-solving and goal-directed behavior through activities like reaching for toys and showing anticipation of events, indicating early engagement of these executive functions.

Research suggests that the brain regions associated with executive functioning, such as the prefrontal cortex, start to exhibit activity related to these cognitive processes in infancy. As children grow and develop, these skills continue to evolve and become more sophisticated during early childhood and beyond, laying the foundation for more complex cognitive and social behaviors.