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Many teachers are miffed when apparently simple tasks such as using an agenda or turning in an assignment is difficult for their students. Many of my own students have shared that some teachers impose very strict rules and regulations about both recording assignments and due dates. In fact, I have witnessed policies that are so rigid, a zero is divvied out if an assignment is even a minute late. Unfortunately, harsh punishments do not provide the attention and instruction that these students need to develop this skill. Instead, penalties and labels such as careless, lazy and unmotivated simply place these frustrated learners in a state of learned helplessness.  In contrast, these students need structured routines, comprehensive instruction, and a scaffolding approach to planning, managing time, and organizing. How Hard Can it Really Be to Plan, Manage Time and Organize? I have to admit, when I first started working with students that struggled with executive functioning, I was perp...

Helping students establish positive, daily routines can be a lesson that will serve them throughout their lives.  Instead of aimlessly floating from task to task, when students learn to create a structured schedule with intentions and goals, they can steer their way to high marks, navigate childhood stressors, and cultivate improved confidence and productivity. Creating Routines Throughout the Day: Establishing routines throughout the day, can help both parents and teachers maintain power and respect while providing kids the structure that they need. For this blog post, I will be focusing on a home routine, but many of these ideas and principles can be applied to the classroom. You’ll notice that I include positive intentions, affirmations, and gratitude as this can help nurture a positive attitude as well as a positive inner voice. Getting your children into the following habits can make mornings more manageable for all family members. You can pick and choose from the following op...

Gearing up for the fall, teachers and parents often scour for strategies that can help learners maximize their learning potential, complete assignments on time, and manage their workload. Although, executive functioning is a no brainer for many, planning, time management and organization can be troublesome and bewildering for others. In fact, I work with many bright and capable students that have the intellect, test taking capabilities and desire to acquire top marks, yet missing assignments, lost materials, avoidant behavior and messy backpacks wreck their GPA. Each academic year offers students a fresh start, so providing them the needed resources and support is key! Students that struggle with executive functioning are often categorized as lazy, unmotivated, and careless. These misnomers couldn't be farther from the truth. Rather, executive functioning skills are not fully developed in the brain until one reaches his or her early twenties, and expecting students to independentl...

Helping students find the best method for recording assignments and organizing their packed schedules can be a game changing strategy that can boost grades and confidence. Over the years, I have tested out many apps as well as printed and digital calendars.  Most recently, I have been evaluating Google Keep, and I’m really excited about this option that communicates across platforms. What is Google Keep? Google Keep is a web-based application that allows you to create, access and share notes, lists, and reminders on many devices.  In addition, it offers many cool features such as images, voice notes, drawings, reminders, color coding and more!  It’s an attractive interface that resembles customizable sticky notes. It also easily integrates with Google's other applications! keep.google.com On What Devices Can I Access Google Keep? Here is a list of devices that can use Google Keep. Below you will find live links to download pages: Google Keep on Mobile Get the iOS app Go...

Many students wait until the last minute to prepare for finals, and they experience anxiety when bombarded with an overwhelming workload. When panic sets in, the amygdala triggers a fight, flight or freeze response, and the stress hormone cortisol is released. Unfortunately, cortisol has a negative impact on learning, and it leads to memory loss and problems with recall. As you can see, preparing for finals in a timely and organized manner can help students manage their tasks, enhance memory, and avoid the negative consequences of triggering the reptilian part of the brain. When Should Students Begin to Prepare for Finals? I encourage my students to create a study schedule about four weeks before finals. This gives them plenty of time to organize materials, schedule needed appointments with teachers, and fully prepare for exams. I also find that this process offers them a manageable approach that avoids unneeded stress and anxiety. What is the Process? Write out a list of the courses t...