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.

executivefunction101ebook.pdf

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)

EF Questionnaire for Kids Grades 1-3.pdf





Parent/Student Questionnaires to examine areas of executive functioning strength/weakness

*source credit noted on documents

EF Questionnaire for Kids Grades 4-5.pdf
EF Questionnaire for Teens.pdf