Executive Function Coaching is a powerful tool that helps students learn the skills to become more independent and confident learners. Distinct from subject matter tutors, Executive Function Coaches work with students to manage the “business” of school. But, first things first, what are the executive functions?
What are the Executive Functions?
The Executive Functions work as the control center of the brain. They determine how well we are able to concentrate, pay attention, and get things done. In other words, the executive functions are the part of our brain that allow us to carry out a task as we work towards a goal.
The Executive Functions include:
- Initiation
- Attention
- Working memory
- Flexible thinking
- Organization
- Planning
- Time management
- Emotional regulation
As vital as the EFs are to academic success, they do not come easily to every student. According to Harvard University’s Center for the Developing Child, “Children aren’t born with these skills—they are born with the potential to develop them. Some children may need more support than others to develop these skills.”
How Do Executive Functions Impact Students?
Imagine your student needs to write a paper for their history class. They will need content knowledge to write the paper; however, a large part of their ability to complete the task and earn a good grade will depend on their executive functioning skills.
Your student will need to be able to break down the task of writing the paper into discrete steps (perhaps conducting research, writing research notes, outlining, drafting, getting feedback, and revising) and then, they will need to be able to plan ahead and manage their time so that they can complete each step in a timely manner. They will need to know deadlines, where to submit their work, and where to find resources or details about specific requirements. Additionally, they will need the organizational skills to manage various components of their research and writing. Then, students will need the ability to sit down and get started. If they are struggling or have questions, they will need the communication skills to reach out to their teacher for support.
When we look at writing a paper as a series of demands on the executive functions, it is easy to see how, even a student who deeply understands the content they need to write about, might find the task extremely challenging.
How Do I Know If My Student Needs Executive Function Support?
Your student could benefit from working with an executive function coach if any of the following are true:
- They frequently miss deadlines
- They struggle to keep up with homework and often lose track of their work
- They express not knowing how to get started on assignments
- Their backpack, folders, and binders are disorganized
- They save studying for tests until the last minute
- They lack confidence in their ability to do well in school
Executive Function Coaching can also help students who are high achievers but struggle to manage their time and are battling procrastination or perfectionism. Executive Function support can help these students turn their Bs into As.
Interested in learning more? Reach out at info@galined.com.
