Thinking About My Own Thinking - Executive Functioning 101
What are executive functions?
Executive functions are higher-level cognitive skills in humans, controlled by the frontal lobe of the brain. They draw upon our more fundamental/primary cognitive skills, to generate higher levels of creative and abstract thought. Simply put, the executive functions are mental processes that direct our thoughts, actions, and emotions, to help us make sense of and respond to information.
STRATEGIES FOR PARENTS -- SUGGESTIONS FOR SUCCESS AT HOME
GENERAL TIPS
provide clear expectations and boundaries
utilize visual cues
follow a consistent daily schedule, including sleep schedule
plan ahead for transition times/changes in activities
pre-plan for difficult tasks and know your own limits
recognize effort and celebrate your student's personal success
HOMEWORK TIME
select a consistent work area that is free from distractions
clean out backpack/folders regularly
review tasks and develop a daily plan
use timers/alarms if needed
CONSIDER REWARDS/CONSEQUENCES FOR STUDENT FOLLOW-THROUGH
get student buy-in on meaningful rewards
consider immediate and/or short-term rewards/consequences you can follow through with
provide 1-2 warnings/reminders before implementation of consequences
RESOURCES FOR PARENTS
"Smart but Scattered" - Dawson and Guare (2009)
"Late, Lost and Unprepared" - Cooper-Khan and Dietzel (2008)
Parent/Student Questionnaires to examine areas of executive functioning strength/weakness
*source credit noted on documents