Executive function training for children with ADHD, dyslexia or autism
Tests a combined thinking and emotion skills training in children with ADHD, dyslexia or autism.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: Dual Executive Function Training Package
Key facts
- Where
- Tai Po, Hong KongSee the site
Could this be for you?
Answer for yourself. This is not a decision: only the study team can say whether you can take part.
- Are you between 6 and 11 years old?
Source: NCT07262853, who can take part
Where in Hong Kong
- EdUHKTai Po, Hong KongTaking people
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Trial details
- Who runs it
- Education University of Hong Kong
- Trial code
- NCT07262853
- Record updated
- 4 December 2025
- Original description
Executive function (EF) refers to the cognitive processes that enable goal-directed regulation of thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Two interrelated domains are commonly distinguished: "cool" EF, which involves abstract cognitive processes, and "hot" EF, which involves regulation in emotionally or motivationally charged contexts. Children with special educational needs (SENs) frequently show difficulties across both domains, yet most interventions target one in isolation. The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a dual EF training package for three of the most prevalent SENs groups: attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), specific learning difficulties (SpLD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A total of 288 primary school students aged 6-12 years with a diagnosis of ADHD, ASD, or SpLD will be recruited. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an intervention or waitlist control group, stratified by diagnosis. Each intervention group (n = 48) will receive the dual EF training programme, while corresponding waitlist controls (n = 48) will receive it after the study. Pre- and post-intervention assessments will include neuropsychological tests of EF, teacher- and parent-reported behavioural ratings, and measures of disability impact, school satisfaction, and social participation.Read full original descriptionShow less
Examining the Effectiveness of a Dual Executive Function Training Package: Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial
Executive function (EF) refers to the cognitive processes that enable goal-directed regulation of thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Two interrelated domains are commonly distinguished: "cool" EF, which involves abstract cognitive processes, and "hot" EF, which involves regulation in emotionally or motivationally charged contexts. Children with special educational needs (SENs) frequently show difficulties across both domains, yet most interventions target one in isolation. The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a dual EF training package for three of the most prevalent SENs groups: attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), specific learning difficulties (SpLD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A total of 288 primary school students aged 6-12 years with a diagnosis of ADHD, ASD, or SpLD will be recruited. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an intervention or waitlist control group, stratified by diagnosis. Each intervention group (n = 48) will receive the dual EF training programme, while corresponding waitlist controls (n = 48) will receive it after the study. Pre- and post-intervention assessments will include neuropsychological tests of EF, teacher- and parent-reported behavioural ratings, and measures of disability impact, school satisfaction, and social participation.
Inclusion: aged between 6 and 11 years; studying at primary schools in HK; confirmed or suspected ADHD, ASD, or SpLD.
Exclusion: received executive function training; comorbid conditions.