Executive function is a theory that was developed over the past 20 years. Executive function provides a framework in which parents and professionals can understand a child's level of cognitive ability. When a child struggles with learning, behavior, and problems with attention, the concept of executive function can help sort through and pinpoint where the breakdowns occur. Executive function involves planning, organizational skills, orchestrating and adapting different strategies to accomplish different tasks. Executive function is often compared to the conductor of a symphony orchestra- coordinating and managing many cognitive functions at one time. EF can also be responsible for a variety of learning disabilities in reading, writing and poor reading comprehension.