An executive function coach helps children understand how they learn and work best, develop practical strategies, and build the skills needed to become more independent and confident. Rather than simply reminding or completing tasks for your child, a coach works alongside them to teach skills they can eventually use on their own. After connecting with your child, a coach will determine areas of strength and weakness and build on those throughout the personalized sessions. In addition to collecting data on which strategies were successful and unsuccessful, some examples of how a coach may specifically help are listed below: 

• Get started: Break down overwhelming assignments, and brainstorm strategies for overcoming procrastination. 

• Plan and prioritize: Determine what needs to be done, when it needs to be done, and how to approach it.

• Manage time: Learn to accurately estimate how long tasks will take, create schedules and follow up with the client on efficacy. 

• Get organized: Develop manageable systems for schoolwork, materials, digital files, and personal responsibilities.

• Stay focused: Identify distractions and practice strategies for sustaining attention.

• Manage emotions: Recognize frustration, stress, or discouragement and develop strategies for responding appropriately and productively.

• Follow through: Practice monitoring progress and taking responsibility for commitments. Ensure that tasks are completed fully according to requirements and reviewed before submission. 

• Build independence: Gradually transfer responsibility from the coach to the client so that strategies become habits they can use independently. Build muscle memory by not only discussing strategies during sessions but also implementing them. 

The goal isn't simply to help a child “get things done.” It is to help them develop the skills, strategies, and self-awareness to manage increasing demands independently—at school, at home, and eventually in college, work, and adult life.