How do you help your teen start planning for the year ahead? If your teen has executive functioning struggles, you are not alone. Executive function is like the brain’s “organization and planning system.” For teens with executive function challenges, starting the school year, keeping track of assignments, or managing daily routines can feel overwhelming. It’s not a reflection of intelligence or effort — many teens simply need support to strengthen these skills.
Here are five ways to help your teen start the year on the right foot:
- Start with compassion: The struggle is real for your teens. Recognize that and show compassion. They are learning and that takes time. Meet them where they are not where you think they should be.
- Help them to find what works: Collaborate with your teen. Don’t expect them to adopt your system of organization. Explore different options. Maybe it’s a paper system using big calendars and sticky notes. Or, they may prefer to go digital or to use a hybrid combination.
- Keep Consistent Routines: Help your teen to establish regular wake-up times, homework slots, and bedtimes to reduce stress and to support focus.
- Celebrate Progress: Recognize small wins. Focus on effort rather than output. Encourage the behavior you want to see by offering a high-five or a word of encouragement.
- Manage emotions: Managing your own emotions can help lower the temperature when tempers flare. Teens with executive function challenges can struggle self -regulation. So it’s vital that you manage your emotions, keep calm and employ effective coping strategies.
Help your teen look to the year ahead with positivity. Let them know you are there to support them in planning their bright future, to develop their skills, and to do so with compassion and calm.
Dr. Adrine McKenzie, Child Psychologist, Fort Lauderdale – helping teens and families manage executive function, anxiety, and school-related challenges.
Email: Info@adrinemckenzie.com