Executive Function
According to the Learning Disabilities Association of America:
“[Executive dysfunction is] an inefficiency in the cognitive management systems of the brain that affects a variety of neuropsychological processes such as planning, organization, strategizing, paying attention to and remembering details, and managing time and space. Although not a learning disability, different patterns of weakness in executive functioning are almost always seen in the learning profiles of individuals who have specific learning disabilities or ADHD.”
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WEBSITES
Understood.org: What is executive function?
Includes short video explanation, “snapshot” of executive function, signs, causes, assessment and treatment
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Seth Perler: What is executive functioning (in plain English)
Short introductory video, definition, areas impacted, aspects of executive function, damaging misconceptions, ways to help (or not), checklist and further resources; additional PDF downloads and quiz available through free sign-up
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Clinical psychologist specializing in ADHD, but blog articles and resources are relevant to parents of all neurodiverse children
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Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS)
Description and resources related to CPS, an evidence-based psychosocial model developed by Dr. Ross Greene. His nonprofit organization, Lives in the Balance, offers a “walking tour” for parents and educators. The Paperwork section is packed with tools.
Academic and Parent Coach Leslie Josel offers articles, videos, podcasts, printables and worksheets (with sign-up), Facebook groups and information about her books
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Association of Educational Therapists: Tips for parents
10 related blog posts with practical ideas to support your child’s executive functioning skills
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ARTICLES AND HANDOUTS
National Center for Learning Disabilities: Executive function fact sheet
Basic definition and bulleted lists of abilities affected by EF, with compensatory strategies
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National Center for Learning Disabilities: What is executive function?
Deeper explanation of executive function through use of narratives and humor; includes list of EF abilities with illustrations from the narrative
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Search Institute: Strengthening Executive Function
Well-researched article on the development and importance of EF; includes the SOAR approach to supporting EF in children
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Super Duper: Handy handouts on executive function
Compilation of three handouts: Teaching Time Management, Executive Functions - Something to Think About, and Sequencing and Executive Functioning
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BOOKS
Series of books written by prominent researchers of executive function, Pam Dawson and Richard Guare
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