Executive Functioning

Coaching for Executive Functioning Challenges

Executive functioning is a “broad term that includes several brain functions that help us execute tasks. Some of the skills under this umbrella include (but are not limited to) planning into the future, prioritizing, time management, organization, focus, task initiation, motivation, follow-through, self-regulation, introspection, and working memory” (Davidson Institute, 2022).

Experiencing challenges in executive functioning can be common to many learners, including learners who are gifted, autistic ADHD and more. For students with executive functioning challenges, it can take a lot of extra effort trying to keep on top of all that needs to be planned and managed. There are well researched strategies for support, it’s not quick-fix territory, but with sustained effort and good strategies, great progress can be made.

The SHHS Library website page “Study Planners” has user-friendly term planners, weekly study timetables, and a more structured homework planner. All of these have tips to help students learn about how to use these tools. The Pomodoro Technique is explained as a great tool to reduce procrastination and build sustained focus. The Must-Do, Should-Do & Could-Do thinking strategy is great for prioritising homework and building an understanding of having realistic expectations. All of these resources can be found here: https://bit.ly/StudyPlanners

Learn More About Executive Functioning: Explanations & Strategies For Students, Parents & Teachers

Executive Functioning Resources for Students 

Seth Perler - Executive Functioning Coach

Another great resource is Seth Perler; he is an Executive Function, ADHD & 2e Coach. He is well respected in the field and is very approachable in his manner. You can listen to him being interviewed on the Neurodiversity Podcast here: Executive functioning and ADHD. 

You can also visit his great website which is packed with free coaching content including videos, podcasts and printable PDF's: https://sethperler.com/freebies/ 

Executive Functioning Resources... more for Teachers / Psychologists / Support Workers / Parents

Dr Peg Dawson and Dr Richard Guare - Smart But Scattered

The two people most often referred to by other executive functioning coaches are Dr Peg Dawson and Dr Richard Guare. Their website and book (Smart But Scattered Kids) have quality information, free resources including printables, free videos; plus we have the Smart But Scattered book in the SHHS Library, it is available for loan by staff and students  (https://www.smartbutscatteredkids.com/resources/print-articles/)

The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University - A Guide to Executive Function

"A Guide to Executive Function: Executive function skills help us plan, focus attention, switch gears, and juggle tasks. Learn how to enhance and develop these core skills for lifelong health and well-being. Executive function and self-regulation skills act like an air traffic control system in the brain, helping us manage information, make decisions, and plan ahead. We need these skills at every stage of life, and while no one is born with them, we are all born with the ability to develop these and other key skills" (A Guide to Executive Function, 2025). 

Resources for Teachers / Psychologists / Support Workers / Parents

• Building the Core Skills Youth Need for Life: A Guide for Education and Social Service Practitioners

• Activities Guide: Enhancing and Practicing Executive Function Skills with Children from Infancy to Adolescence This Activities Guide is great and includes things like 'hobbies that support executive functioning skills development'.

• InBrief: Executive Function: Skills for Life and Learning (video)

Reference: Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University (2014). Enhancing and Practicing Executive Function Skills with Children from Infancy to Adolescence. Retrieved from www.developingchild.harvard.edu.