Beyond the Norms classes are eligible for STEP UP for STUDENTS as an approved direct provider listed in EMA.

See younger cohort listing for game reviews and more broken down Science:
https://outschool.com/classes/executive-function-learn-study-motivate-brain-wiring-hacking-project-class-3U08n69L?refuid=5NI17KDI

***Please note that this class is not intended to provide therapy.***

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Short self-testing and self-evaluations included in different cognitive domains. Psychological tests that give insight into different areas of:

Working Memory
Attention
Inhibition
Cognitive Flexibility
Visualization
Processing Speed
Metacognition
Logic
Visualization
Self-reflection
Short term memory
Mental Rotation

Tests do not provide diagnosis- only insight into Cognitive Functions.

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In this class we focus on understanding and enhancing executive functioning skills, based on the latest neuroscience research. Executive Functioning skills have been found to be more critical for success in academics and life than IQ level. This course not only builds executive functioning skills but also fosters a deeper understanding of how the brain works and how to harness its full potential. We will focus on science backed methods that aid those with different brain wiring (ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, SLD, Gifted) to organize their mental landscape. These methods are not 100% intuitive but draw on common methods suggested that work with the typical brain and upgrade them to fit ANY brain wiring. 

The first few weeks, we spend building foundational knowledge about Executive Functioning and skills to support our building of them the rest of the year. 
Then we go over how to boost motivation and dopamine to help us meet goals based on the neurochemical cocktails we have going on inside of our brains (and some tips on how to spot and support the different chemical connected to motivation and learning).
The beginning of the course after that is highly "Learning" centered as it is a guide in building Cognitive Flexibility.

Cognitive Flexibility is a foundational skill for developing effective planning and organization (dealing with unexpected changes, interruptions, or new tasks), self-care (adjust routines, recognize when they need a break, or switching to more beneficial self-care practices), and overcoming procrastination (allows for the ability to reframe tasks in manageable ways, seeing different approaches, or breaking down complex tasks, making it easier to start and keep going) because it allows for self-reflection, adaptive thinking, problem-solving, and behavioral adjustment.

Many parents have said they have noticed an improvement in their children's regulation just on the 4th-5th week of the course. 

After our Cognitive Flexibility section, we start in Working Memory and building memory, controlling impulses, attention, emotions, before getting into planning/organization/time management towards the end of the class. Very often, these structural skills are showing a lacking in the foundational skills. 


Expert Guidance: 
     As a neurodiverse 2e SPED educator (graduate education focus on ADHD, Autism, Gifted, 2E, Dyslexia), I am deeply passionate about tapping into the full potential and intrinsic motivation of every child through outside-the-box and creative, critical thinking. 
     As a Researcher, it is my nature to constantly seek out and use innovative, research-backed approaches to learning that not only acknowledge, but also celebrate each child's uniqueness. I have thorough experience in breaking down complex neuroscience concepts into easy-to-understand strategies for children of all ages.

Personalized Learning: 
     All participants will receive a questionnaire to discover their unique strengths and weaknesses in executive functioning, allowing for a tailored learning experience.
Course Schedule: Please see the syllabus.  

Why This Course is Unique:
This full year EF group course will be delving into wiring differences in the different ND’s and how that shows up in cognitive profiles. There will be extension project for those wanting to go deeper into the neuroscience to troubleshoot the different ND wiring and supports (giving them greater self-awareness and empathy towards others different from them) as well as creating their individual brain-wiring operators manual through the year.
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Interactive and Flexible: 
     Classes are designed to be interactive where students face challenges and discussions to recognize their strengths and create actionable goals throughout the year. Each subject and each week is a gold mine of 20 years of research. While these techniques were developed to help those with Executive Dysfunction, all students can benefit from the science behind activating the maximum amount of their brain while learning.

Inclusive Teaching Style: 
     This class caters to all learning styles and all students are welcome, whatever accommodation they need. 

Late Enrollment Friendly: While the class is set up to build and reference previous classes for this academics Master Course, students can join at any time without feeling behind due to the highly specific nature of each week's subject.