How Can an Executive Functioning Coach Help My Child?

So here I am writing my very first blog for My Learning Springboard.  I may be new to MLS, but I’m certainly not new to teaching. I began my career as a second grade teacher in Frederick County, Maryland. A year later, I moved closer to where I grew up in Montgomery County to teach pre-K in an independent school.  The smaller school allowed me the opportunity to work with students at all skill levels. I had access to multiple support services that provided me with the knowledge to help struggling students. Over more than 25 years, I have taught and consulted with pre-K through third grade families. I learned that all students could benefit from good design and organizational supports in the classroom and at home.  I strongly believe that intentional design builds comfort and provides students the opportunity to succeed. I completely agree with Brad Hoffman, our CEO, that collaboration is key to success.

The methods and techniques I use have enabled students to change their environment, streamline their work areas and learn how to master executive strategies.  I hope to provide you with simple ideas to creatively design work and study spaces, organize those spaces, educate you on executive functioning skills and support you in school and at home so you can succeed.

To begin, spring break is upon us and a good time to take a look at material organization.

• The backpack. Is it a mess?
• Do you do weekly clean-outs? Is it falling apart?
• The assignment book.  Is it being used?  How do you determine what needs to be done when? Is work completed and turned in on time?
• The binder. Is it packed with papers that are wrinkled and torn?  Do you know where it is? Does it need repair?
• The locker. Is your lunch from January still smashed up in the brown bag and stuffed at the back? Do you really need four coats or will one do? Are your papers in a notebook or folders or are they piled high and flying out every time you open the locker door?
• The desk at home.  Do you have one?  Where do you do homework?  Does your workspace work for you?
• Do you have tools and resources within reach?

Looking for suggestions on how to tackle these issues contact My Learning Springboard for more information.

Written by: Editorial Team, My Learning Springboard, Inc.