Simple, practical ideas to support executive functioning at home. These aren't about adding more — they're about small shifts that make a real difference.
Think of executive functioning as the brain's "project manager." It helps your young person plan ahead, stay organised, manage their time, control their impulses, and handle their emotions. These skills are still developing during the teenage years — so when your teen forgets their PE gear or leaves an assignment to the last minute, it's not necessarily laziness. Their brain is still building these skills.
"Your teen isn't giving you a hard time — they're having a hard time. These skills take time to develop, and your support makes a real difference."
Practical Support Ideas
Help set up a consistent spot for school bag and gear
Use a family whiteboard or shared calendar
Do a weekly "bag check" together (not for them)
Keep it positive — celebrate small improvements
Use visual timers for homework blocks
Agree on a homework routine (same time, same place)
Help them estimate how long tasks will take
Model your own time management out loud
Sit with them for the first 5 minutes of homework
Help break big tasks into small steps together
Use a "just do 5 minutes" approach to reduce overwhelm
Remove distractions (phone in another room)
Validate their frustration before problem-solving
Create calm-down spaces at home
Model healthy emotional regulation yourself
Keep communication lines open and judgement-free
Working with the School
Ask teachers which EF skills your young person finds challenging
Share what works at home — consistency helps
Ask about what supports are available (e.g., homework clubs, mentoring)
Remember: you're on the same team as the school