We focus on executive function skills in all of Sophia Academy’s classes: the ability to plan, organize, categorize, achieve, and so on. But, according to the Center on the Developing Child at Harv are University, there are many things parents can do at home to help teens acquire more robust executive function skills. Among these are
- Encourage your teen to identify something specific that he wants to accomplish. Start with something fairly simple and achievable.
- help your teen develop plans for steps to reach these goals. Have them think through what can be done to achieve both short and long-term goals
- Remind your teen to periodically monitor his behavior and consider whether he is dong the things he planned. Have him ask “Is this part of the plan? If not, why am I doing it? Has something changed?”
- Self-talk is a powerful way to bring thoughts and actions into consciousness. Encourage self talk that focuses on growth.
- Help your teen to be mindful of interruptions
- Encourage self-reflection through the keeping of a journal.
