The role of executive functions in preschool children with autism spectrum disorder: A short narrative review

Atypical executive functions (EFs) are well-documented in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) across all ages. However, most research focuses on EFs impairments in school-aged children and older, with less attention to preschool children. Understanding EF deficits in this age group is challenging and underexplored due to limited studies and measurement difficulties. The current short narrative review's aim is to provide an update on the knowledge on EFs in preschool children with ASD and their association with ASD symptoms. Despite varied results, recent research suggests early EF difficulties, potentially linked to greater impairments in social skills and externalizing behaviors. This suggests the importance of implementing early interventions that take into account the enhancement of these areas from an early age. Further investigation in this age group could enhance our understanding of ASD. • EF challenges in preschoolers with ASD affect social cognition and goal-oriented behavior. • EF impairments, especially inhibition, are linked to ASD symptom severity in children. • Early EF impairments in ASD predict later behavioral and emotional problems in children. • Early EF interventions can improve social, emotional, and adaptive functioning in ASD. • EF impairments in preschoolers with ASD may be primary rather than secondary issues.