In an educational setting, executive functions are essential. Students rely on executive function skills everyday to complete their work, manage their workload, and take the next step in their academic and emotional journeys. As educators, we acutely know the importance of strong executive function skills—yet teaching those skills to students and getting them to implement […]
Author Archive for: Rachael
Entries by Rachael Barron
Students rely on their executive functions everyday to get their schoolwork done, participate in extracurricular activities, and complete the basic tasks of day-to-day life. Yet executive function skills are not a dedicated part of a standard school curriculum, and many students find themselves falling behind because they lack these vital skills to succeed. With the […]
Many people hear about time management for the first time at school, where teachers tout the importance of good time management skills in order to balance growing academic and extracurricular responsibilities. However, time management—and how to do it—is not necessarily taught to students in school, leading to poor habits and long-term challenges for many. Time […]
Welcome to the official start of the holiday season, full of the joys of togetherness to be experienced with family and friends—and, yes, teenagers. Thanksgiving break gives a much needed rest for students who have had little reprieve until now, providing respite before the pressure of finals. Teenagers and togetherness can be tough, though, particularly […]
Executive functioning (EF) skills are the cornerstone of academic success and personal growth. These skills, which include planning, organization, and emotional regulation, are critical for students to navigate the complexities of school and life. While schools play a role in teaching these skills, the home environment is an equally important arena for building executive functioning […]
Anxiety is being discussed more openly than ever before, with many people realizing that what they previously wrote off as everyday stress may be a part of a more chronic mental health problem. For people and students with ADHD and executive dysfunction issues, anxiety can be the norm, with ADHD and executive function issues creating […]
As the new academic year begins, back-to-school shopping is well underway, and, as you review your student’s school supply list, you’ll likely find one necessary school supply listed: a planner. This vital resource can keep students organized as they learn how to tackle what the new year brings. Although keeping up with assignments is crucial […]
Many students’ transition to high school can be difficult, especially if they don’t have the necessary executive functioning skills. According to a 2010 study on academic vulnerability and resilience during the transition to high school, “The transition to high school is a critical stage in students’ academic trajectories and can be especially difficult for middle […]
Students with ADHD often struggle with executive functioning, meaning they can have difficulty starting and finishing tasks. However, executive functioning skills that these students need to succeed are teachable. Harvard University defines executive functions as learned skills that allow you to “plan ahead and meet goals, display self-control, follow multiple-step directions even when interrupted, and […]