Executive functioning skills (EF Skills) are the abilities in our brains that help us complete everyday tasks to reach goals. These skills include planning, organization, time management, meta-cognition, working memory, self-control, attention, flexibility, and perseverance. Sometimes, it’s helpful to think of executive functions like an air traffic controller in our brains. The EF center is assigning tasks to each of the different skills. For example, it tells us to focus and really listen while someone is talking (attention) while reminding us to get started when we have an assignment due at the end of class (task initiation). All of these skills work together to make sure we are working efficiently and effectively while completing daily tasks.

All children need help and support to develop excellent executive functions. Some children lag behind and may need a more personal approach than most schools offer. They aren’t just labeled by the general public as lazy and unmotivated.

Are you interested in a unique method for developing your child's executive function skills?

Building self motivation in teens

You really can help motivate your teen with executive functioning difficulties or ADHD.

No teenager succeeds at something without really wanting it. And conjuring that motivation is half the battle. Help your teen tap into his innate (but often buried) motivation by understanding what he really wants (besides video games and clothes), and using those desires to help him set goals.

STAND program helps teens become more independent and responsible and parents feel less stressed, more in control, and balanced as a parent.