Executive Functioning for Children

We understand that every child is unique, and their executive function challenges may manifest in different ways. That's why we wouldn't dream of relying on a quick and generic diagnosis. Instead, we take a comprehensive and individualized approach to understanding your child's specific challenges as they relate to executive dysfunction. Here's what you can expect:

• Detailed interviews: We'll sit down with you and your child, taking the time to gather in-depth information about their strengths, weaknesses, and daily struggles.

• Standardized assessments: We may utilize informal and standardized tests designed to evaluate specific executive function domains, like planning, organization, working memory, and attention.

• Caregiver collaboration: We believe in open communication and collaboration. We'll include input from caregivers to gain valuable insights into their performance and challenges in different environments.

• Observation and analysis: Our trained professionals will observe your child during various activities, carefully analyzing their approach to tasks, their ability to manage distractions, and their emotional regulation strategies.

Through this thorough and multi-faceted process, we aim to paint a clear picture of your child's unique executive function profile. This detailed understanding is the foundation for creating an effective and personalized treatment plan that truly addresses their specific needs and sets them on the path to success.

Your child’s executive function coach will set your child’s treatment goals to create meaningful outcomes that achieve real-life improvement.

Since each child is unique and will respond to different therapy methods, we will create a treatment program tailor-made for your child’s needs. We will choose the right therapy technique for each child and adapt therapy when they do or do not respond to a specific plan.

Our executive function coaches at Connected Speech Pathology hold master’s degrees in communication sciences and have completed rigorous post-graduate training to provide the best methods available. 

That’s a common question. We will strive to make every therapy session feel productive. The trajectory of executive function coaching interventions differs for each family, and no exact amount of time applies to everyone.

Executive function challenges often co-occur with other areas of concern. That's why we take a holistic approach to your child's well-being. While our expertise lies in identifying and addressing executive function difficulties, we understand the interconnectedness of different developmental areas. Your child's well-being is our top priority, and we're committed to addressing all aspects related to speech and communication.

Planning and Organization:

Checklist champions: We can empower your child to create checklists and become a "checklist champion" by crafting personalized checklists for tasks like packing backpacks, completing homework, or prepping for morning routines. These visual aids provide a clear roadmap for everyday life, reducing dependence on memory and promoting independent action.

Project planning pros: For larger projects or assignments, the coach can teach your child to break them down into smaller, manageable steps. Creating a detailed timeline with deadlines and checklists for each step equips your child with organizational skills that translate to improved academic performance.

Time Management:

Mastering minutes: Time management isn't about cramming more into the day, but about using existing time effectively. The coach can introduce practical tools like timers and visual schedules to help your child estimate task duration, prioritize activities, and stay on track during homework sessions or extracurricular engagements.

Working Memory:

Chunking champs: Remember learning multiplication tables by "chunks"? This chunking strategy can be applied to various scenarios. The coach can teach your child to break down complex information, like historical dates or science concepts, into smaller, easier-to-remember segments, boosting memory capacity and aiding comprehension.

Mnemonic makers: Rhyming, acronyms, or even silly stories can become powerful memory aids. The coach can guide your child in creating engaging mnemonic devices to solidify key information, enhancing learning and academic performance.

Impulse Control and Emotional Regulation:

De-escalation checklists: Navigating strong emotions can be tough. The coach can equip your child with a personalized "de-escalation checklist" outlining calming techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness exercises, or preferred activities to implement when feeling overwhelmed. These tools empower your child to manage impulse control and emotional responses in daily life.

Remember, developing strong executive functions isn't just about academics but life-long success. By working with a coach, your child can gain the skills and confidence to manage daily routines, navigate social interactions, and approach academic challenges with focus and organization. This comprehensive approach fosters the holistic development of executive functions, preparing your child for a bright future.