Let’s face it, teens have a lot on their plates! Between school, activities, and social lives, it’s no wonder they sometimes struggle with organization, planning, and getting started on tasks. But there’s good news: you can help them develop these crucial executive functioning skills with simple strategies and encouragement.
1. Planning: Mapping Out Success
Planning involves creating a roadmap before diving into a task. It helps teens stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- To-Do Lists Together: Sit down with your teen and brainstorm a list of tasks, chores, or activities. For older teens, help them create a visual representation of their day or week, considering timelines and events.
- Visual Planners: Calendars, whiteboards, or even colorful sticky notes can help your teen see their schedule at a glance. Let them choose a format that resonates with them, whether it’s a daily, weekly, or monthly view.
- Think Aloud: Before an activity, encourage your teen to think through what they might need. “What should you pack for the game tonight?” or “What materials will you need for your project?”
2. Organization: Creating Order from Chaos
Organization is all about systems and strategies that make it easy to find things and keep spaces tidy.
- Labeled Bins & Drawers: Designate specific spaces for school supplies, clothes, and personal items using labels. Help older teens create systems that make sense to them.
- Clean-Up Routine: Establish a regular time each day for tidying up bedrooms and shared spaces. This helps prevent clutter from building up.
- Backpack Check: Make a quick nightly backpack check a habit to ensure everything is organized for the next day.
3. Task Initiation: Overcoming Inertia
Task initiation is the ability to get started, even when motivation is low.
- Break It Down: Help your teen break large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. This makes them seem less daunting. Encourage older teens to talk through the steps involved.
- Countdown & Go!: A playful countdown can build momentum and make starting tasks more fun.
- “I Can Do It!” Attitude: Positive self-talk can go a long way in helping your teen feel confident about tackling tasks.
Remember:
- Progress Over Perfection: Every teen develops at their own pace. Celebrate their efforts and focus on the progress they make.
- Patience & Consistency: Building executive functioning skills takes time and practice. Be patient and provide consistent support.
- Make It Fun! Learning and growth should be enjoyable. Find ways to incorporate humor and playfulness into these strategies.
If you have concerns about your teen’s development, reach out to an educational therapist or interventionist for personalized support.
Best,
Dr. Christine Powell, Ed.D; Education Therapist
