“The single greatest predictor of academic success is executive function. It even trumps IQ.”
– Developmental molecular biologist John Medina
Executive Functioning refers to brain-based abilities that allow us to harness our energy and focus on goals—in short, EF allow us to manage ourselves and get things done.
Executive functioning allows people to access information, think about solutions and implement those ideas. There is an impressive list of areas that executive functioning has an impact on and most people do these things without thinking about them. The list includes:
- Time management
- Organization
- Prioritizing
- Problem solving
- Estimating outcomes
- Analyzing sensory information
- Anticipating consequences
- Evaluating possible outcomes
- Choosing actions based on positive outcomes
- Choosing based on social expectations and norms
- Performing tasks required to carry out decisions
- Planning and completing projects
- Struggling with telling stories in the right sequence
- Retaining information in distracting situations
- Initiating tasks and generating ideas independentl
Who struggles with Executive Function?
A wide variety of people struggle with executive function. Some people who struggle with executive function have no diagnosable disorders. Others who struggle in this area have ADHD, Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD-NOS), learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, and other conditions. Often, people who struggle with mood disorders can have cyclical problems with executive function.
What is an Executive Functioning Coach?
– In collaboration with the young adult, effective ways to personalize your education and get you on track academically are developed and implemented.
– Together, you will put into action learning and life management strategies, enhancing your success in your college environment.
– Your accountability person, someone who provides no judgment, is empathetic, warm, and fun, yet won’t let you stray too far away from your goals and objectives.
– Remember, CCS Coaches are not academic advisors. Conversations with your advisors will focus on planning curriculum and meeting requirements whereas dialogue with an EF Coach allows space for everything in between, like learning strategies and life management skills. However, your coach will accompany you to your important academic meetings if this is helpful.
Coaching Benefits
– It’s a chance for the client to talk about their experience in college, in and out of the classroom.
– Our clients are listened to, not judged, and taken seriously.
– In addition to educating and assisting with design strategies tailored to the client’s specific situation, the Coach keeps abreast of specific school’s
policies and might be aware of options not previously considered.
– Our coaches support the client to develop a study schedule and routine, and provide accountability to the client to support their follow through.
– Clients have the option of participating in CCS supported activities and groups to increase their social connection and support.
Areas the coach will work with your son or daughter on:
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- Client is in need of the support of a coach who understands when they are feeling a lack of confidence about their academic performance.
- Help the client understand their limitations, what can be done to improve them and accommodate them to support success in the academic arena, as well as with life management.
- Strengths are assessed and highlighted and an academic and life management plan is built around the clients strengths, and continuing what works.
- Improve motivation and feelings of empowerment, which occurs because of our strength-based approach.
- Have questions about any kind of academic policy and support the client in finding the answers.
- Are considering changes in their schedule or major.
- Feel undue academic pressure and are struggling to cope and find solutions.
- Guide and accompany client to important departments on campus, such as disability services, tutoring center, academic services, counseling services, etc.
- We support our clients to apply for and receive academic accommodations through the disability services. We walk with them every step of the way.
- Want to sharpen learning or life management skills, including:
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- Time Management, which includes daily planners and “to do” lists, weekly schedule, semester calendar, managing each syllabus effectively, and realities, boundaries, priorities, and rewards.
- Managing Freedom, especially for first year students
- Goal Setting
- Establishing a Study Plan
- Motivation
- Focus and Concentration
- Test Preparation and Test Taking Strategies
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Call 303-635-6753 for further information.
