Behaviors, Executive Functioning

PBIS Interventions for Students with Executive Function Challenges

A student who forgets homework, blurts out in class, or struggles to begin assignments may be seen as careless or disruptive. These behaviors often reflect executive functioning (EF) challenges, the mental skills that help us plan, organize, focus, and regulate emotions. Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a popular framework in schools that promotes … read more

Executive Functioning

Implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to Support Executive Functioning

What if classrooms were designed so every student, including those who experience differences with organization, focus, or flexibility, had the tools to do well from day one? Universal Design for Learning (UDL) provides a flexible framework that supports executive function (EF) skills like planning, working memory, and self-monitoring. By using UDL, teachers can create lessons … read more

Planning, Building Independence, Neurodivergence Research

Breaking Down Tasks: Understanding Task Analysis

Have you ever started a project and felt stuck because you didn’t know where to begin or how to get to your end goal? For many learners, especially those who experience differences in planning, attention, or memory, even simple tasks can feel heavy. Task analysis helps by breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps that … read more

Legal & Personal Rights, Executive Functioning, Personal Advocacy

How to Advocate for Executive Functioning Accommodations in School

If your learner finds organization, time management, or focus difficult, school and social life can take extra energy. You’re not alone, and there are practical ways to make each day feel more manageable. This guide shows you how to: spot signs of EF challenges; gather helpful documentation; work with your learner’s school; and advocate for … read more

Attentional Control, Executive Functioning, Wellness & Mental Health

Social Media and Executive Functioning: Best Practices for Teens

Can your favorite social media app actually make it harder to focus, plan, and stay organized? Social media can be helpful but might overload your executive functioning if used excessively. Learning how it affects your thinking, emotions, and self-control can help you make more informed choices online. This guide explores how social media influences executive … read more

EF Apps & Tools, Attentional Control, Executive Functioning, Time Management

Pomodoro Technique for ADHD and Improved Focus

Struggling with focus and time management due to ADHD? ADHD often makes it difficult to concentrate, manage time, and overcome feelings of overwhelm. The Pomodoro Technique might be your answer. This method breaks tasks into manageable chunks with built-in breaks, helping you stay focused and reduce distractions effectively. Let’s explore how the Pomodoro Technique can … read more

EF Apps & Tools, Executive Functioning, Neurodivergence Research

Time Blocking for ADHD: Manage Your Day with Less Stress

Struggling to manage time with ADHD? Time blocking can help. This technique schedules tasks into specific blocks of time, providing structure and reducing stress. In this article, learn how time blocking can enhance focus and productivity, making daily responsibilities more manageable for those with ADHD. Click here for the TL;DR summary. Understanding Time Blocking for … read more

Executive Functioning, EF Apps & Tools, Organization, Time Management

ADHD Email Management: Strategies, Tools, and Mindset to Tackle Inbox Overwhelm

ADHD makes email management challenging, but with effective ADHD email management strategies, useful tools, and mindset tips, this article provides you with the means to gain control over your inbox. Managing emails effectively involves categorizing them clearly, so you can find what matters quickly and avoid unnecessary distractions. The arrival of a new message can … read more

Executive Functioning, Cognitive Flexibility, Problem Solving

4 Creative Problem Solving Techniques

Have you ever found yourself stuck in a problem, unable to think of a way forward? We have all experienced moments when the solution seems out of reach. By learning how to shift our thinking and stay focused on our goals, we can unlock new, creative solutions. Cognitive flexibility and goal-directed persistence are two powerful … read more

Building Independence, Executive Functioning

Peer-Mediated Interventions: Building Executive Functioning Skills Through Peer Support

Imagine a classroom where students are not just learning from the teacher, but also from each other. From the outside looking in, this might look like one student gently reminding another student to check their planner, while a nearby peer models how to break an assignment into smaller, more manageable steps. These are more than … read more