We can learn executive function skills that help us in daily life. They are the basis for so many things we do! Executive function skills enable us to plan, organize, start, and follow through with all tasks. These include things we do for school and fun. 

Who would benefit from improving their executive function skills? Everyone! We are never too old or too accomplished to be interested in enhancing these skills. Getting and staying organized, planning for long-term goals, and dealing with change are just a few examples of things we get better at when we work on these skills. 

This introduction to executive skills class is designed to introduce kids to the concepts of executive function. Each week begins with a short paper-based self-assessment as part of the workbook; learners will be provided weekly. After completing the assessment, we will move into our lesson for the week. Weekly lessons will be delivered through conversation, group work, and games. 

Week 1
ORGANIZATION
Organization Self-Assessment
Let's learn about Organization
Organized for School
Organization Project

Week 2
PLANNING / PRIORITIZATION
Planning Self-Assessment
Let's learn about Planning / Prioritization
Planning your routine

Week 3
TASK INITIATION
Task Initiation Self-Assessment
Let's learn about Task Initiation
Why do we procrastinate?
Overcoming procrastination

Week 4 
TIME MANAGEMENT
Time Management Self-Assessment
Let's learn about Time Management
My Schedule
Using my time effectively

Week 5
SELF-CONTROL & EMOTIONAL REGULATION
Self-control self-Assessment
Let's learn about Self-control
Pause, think, choose
Improving Self-control little by little

Week 6 
COMMUNICATION & SELF EXPRESSION
Understanding communication 
Expressing emotions in healthy ways

Week 7
FLEXIBILITY & PERSEVERANCE 
Problem-Solving
Goal Setting

Why is it important to learn about and work on improving our executive function skills? The answer to that is both easy and complicated at the same time. Improving executive function skills makes life better; it gives us the tools to navigate the nuances that make up daily life. When we have the skills to begin tasks, manage our time effectively, develop better self-control, and work through any problems we face, we feel successful and create a positive outlook. We grow in contentment and joy and feel open to trying new things. Yet executive function skills don't always or even usually come naturally. It takes time and intention to master these skills. 

If your child already has some basic knowledge of executive function skills and you would like the opportunity for them to take a deeper dive to truly master skills, I recommend trying my 1:1 Executive Function and Social Skills Coaching.

This class is led by Donna Richmond. 
Donna holds a B.Sc. (H, Psy) and an M.A.Psych, as well as is certified ​and licensed​ in many coaching modalities, including Erickson Coaching, Louise Hay Heal Your Life, MBSR, IIN Health Coaching, & others. As a former social worker, therapist and professional coach, Donna has spent decades working with kids and youth. As a mom to four ranging in age from 14 - 27yrs old, it's her goal and passion to share important life skills to help kids navigate this world in the most resilient ways possible.