Helping Your High Schooler Develop Executive Function Skills: A Parent’s Guide
As parents, you play a vital role in shaping your high schooler’s success, not just academically but also in life. One key area where you can make a big impact is by helping them improve their executive function skills. These skills are the mental processes that allow us to plan, focus, prioritize, and manage time effectively — essential abilities for high schoolers juggling rigorous classes, extracurriculars, and social responsibilities. At Tutors & Friends, we specialize in empowering students to build these skills alongside mastering their coursework.
What Are Executive Function Skills?
Executive function skills include:
Time management: Understanding how to allocate time effectively to complete tasks.
Organization: Keeping track of assignments, due dates, and materials.
Task initiation: Starting work without procrastination.
Focus: Staying on task despite distractions.
Goal setting: Defining clear, actionable goals and sticking to them.
Emotional regulation: Managing stress and emotions in high-pressure situations.
These skills often develop over time but can lag during the high school years. The good news? There are actionable ways you can support your teen in strengthening these abilities.
How Parents Can Support Executive Function Development
Create a Structured Environment
Encourage your teen to use a planner or digital calendar to track assignments, projects, and deadlines.
Set up a dedicated study space free of distractions, such as phones and TV.
Establish consistent routines for homework, studying, and sleep.
Break Down Large Tasks
Help your teen divide large assignments into smaller, manageable steps. For example, writing a research paper can be broken into tasks such as choosing a topic, researching, outlining, drafting, and revising. This approach reduces overwhelm and teaches them how to tackle big projects.Encourage the Use of Tools and Apps
There are plenty of apps designed to support time management and organization, such as Google Calendar, Todoist, and Trello. Introduce your teen to these tools and help them choose the one that fits their needs best.Model Good Habits
Teens often learn by observing their parents. Show them how you plan your day, set priorities, and manage your responsibilities. Share strategies you use to stay organized and focused.Teach Self-Advocacy
Encourage your teen to communicate with teachers, coaches, and peers when they need help or more time for a project. This fosters independence and problem-solving skills.
How Tutors & Friends Can Help
At Tutors & Friends, we believe that executive function skills are just as important as academic knowledge. Here’s how our tutors support your student:
Personalized Support: Our tutors work one-on-one with students to assess their unique needs and challenges. Whether it’s staying on top of assignments or learning how to focus better, we tailor our approach to your teen.
Time Management Coaching: We guide students in creating realistic schedules and sticking to them, helping them balance schoolwork with other commitments.
Goal Setting and Accountability: Our tutors encourage students to set achievable goals and check in regularly to ensure progress. This not only builds their executive function skills but also boosts their confidence.
Study Strategies: We teach effective study techniques, such as active reading, note-taking, and test preparation, which enhance focus and retention.
Stress Management: High school can be stressful, especially during exams or when juggling multiple AP classes. Our tutors help students develop coping strategies to manage stress and stay motivated.
Why Now Is the Best Time to Start
Executive function skills are foundational for success not just in high school but also in college and beyond. The earlier your teen starts building these skills, the more confident and prepared they’ll be to handle future challenges. With Tutors & Friends, your teen will gain both the academic support and life skills they need to thrive.
Ready to help your teen take the next step? Contact us today to learn more about how our personalized tutoring can make a difference in their academic and personal growth.
