What Is Executive Function Coaching?

What is Executive Function Coaching?

Brandon Slade

November 14, 2024

Summary: Executive function (EF) skills are like the scaffolding that supports us as we reach toward our goals, helping us build plans, stay organized, and maintain focus until we accomplish what we set out to do. However, for some students, especially those with ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia, or other learning challenges, this doesn’t come naturally. It’s not about lacking intelligence or effort; it’s about needing the right structure to help them succeed. That’s where executive function coaching comes in. This blog will explore what EF coaching is and why Untapped Learning’s unique approach provides a solid foundation that helps students to build their path to success.

What Are Executive Function (EF) Skills?

EF skills are essential for achieving goals, managing time, and staying focused. Here’s a breakdown of core EF skills and how they’re used daily:

• Planning and Prioritizing: Knowing what needs to be done and deciding what’s most important.  

Example: Planning to finish homework before going out with friends.

• Time Management: Using time wisely to avoid last-minute stress.  

Example: Establishing a daily productivity routine to make the most of available time and prevent last-minute stress.

• Organization: Keeping track of assignments, tasks, and deadlines.  

Example: Organizing notes and assignments by class in folders.

• Working Memory: Remembering important details while completing a task.  

Example: Keeping instructions in mind while solving a math problem.

• Emotional Control: Managing stress and emotions.  

Example: Taking a few deep breaths before a big test to stay calm.

• Self-Monitoring: Checking in on progress and adjusting as needed.  

Example: Reviewing progress halfway through a project to ensure everything’s on track.

• Task Initiation: Getting started on tasks without procrastination.  

Example: Starting a long assignment immediately instead of waiting until the last minute.

• Flexibility: Adapting when things don’t go as planned.  

Example: Adjusting study plans when a new assignment is added.

• Impulse Control: Thinking before acting.  

Example: Taking a moment to think before responding to someone when feeling frustrated.

For students who struggle with EF, each school day can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s forgetting assignments, starting tasks too late, or losing focus, EF coaching helps students take control.

Why Executive Function Coaching Matters

Many students struggle with EF skills due to ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia, or simply a lack of effective strategies. These aren’t character flaws, rather they’re skill-based challenges. Without support, students can feel overwhelmed, disorganized, or frustrated, which can lead to low motivation and stress.

EF coaching helps students develop the skills they need to thrive. It’s especially beneficial for students, athletes, and young adults balancing academics, extracurriculars, and personal goals. Whether it’s managing time for school projects, staying organized, or learning to focus, EF coaching provides practical tools to build confidence and success.

What Does Executive Function Coaching Involve?

Executive function coaching is highly personalized and provides structure, support, and strategies tailored to each student’s unique needs. Here’s what EF coaching typically includes:

• Personalized Approach: Coaches work closely with students to create strategies that fit their strengths, challenges, and preferences.

• Goal Setting: Coaches help students set meaningful goals and connect them to specific EF skills. Large goals get broken down into small, achievable steps, making progress easier and more motivating.

• Strategy Development: Coaches teach students to manage time, organize tasks, and improve focus. Tools like planners, reminders, and checklists are commonly used to create structure.

• Accountability and Support: Coaches don’t just give advice and walk away. They check in regularly, offer feedback, and provide accountability to keep students on track.

• Skill Building: Coaches focus on specific EF skills like time management, self-advocacy, and study habits. Techniques like “brain dumping” help students clear their minds and organize their thoughts effectively.

• Movement and Breaks: Coaches often incorporate movement breaks in sessions, like walking or quick stretching. These breaks help students reset their focus, which is essential for avoiding burnout.

Why Choose Untapped Learning for EF Coaching?

Choosing a coaching program is about finding the right fit. Untapped Learning offers a coaching approach that’s more than just skill-building. Our model incorpirates mentorship, tailored support, and a structured community that encourages growth. Here’s why families choose Untapped:

1. Mentorship-Based Coaching

Untapped Learning coaches act as mentors. They go beyond teaching EF skills by building strong relationships with students. Coaches check in regularly, even between sessions, to offer guidance and encouragement. This continuous support helps students feel valued, motivated, and connected, which leads to more lasting results.

2. Homework and Extra Support Sessions  

Untapped Learning offers specific homework sessions for students who need extra help. These sessions provide structure and support, making sure assignments get done. With guided support, students can build better study habits, stay on top of deadlines, and manage tasks without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Flexible Virtual Coaching Structure  

Many students find long virtual sessions challenging, especially when focus is a struggle. Untapped Learning addresses this by offering two 30-minute virtual sessions each week instead of one hour-long session. This shorter, more frequent structure keeps students engaged, making it easier for them to stay on track and get the most out of each session.

4. Holistic Development Focus 

Untapped Learning emphasizes more than just academic success. They focus on building resilience, confidence, and self-management skills that will serve students for life. This holistic approach helps students view challenges as opportunities for growth, building a foundation of skills that will benefit them long term.

5. Collaboration and Family Involvement

Coaches collaborate with parents and educators to create a consistent environment that reinforces the EF skills students learn during sessions. This teamwork approach ensures that students have the support they need across all areas of their lives.

Untapped Learning Core Values

Untapped Learning’s values are at the heart of everything they do:

1. Always Do What’s Best for the Student  

Each student’s strengths come first. Untapped coaches take a strengths-based approach, helping students build on their natural abilities.

2. Discipline

Discipline is a core part of success. Untapped coaches model discipline, teaching students to be proactive, stay organized, and follow routines that promote accountability and achievement.

3. Empathy  

Understanding student challenges is central to Untapped’s approach. Coaches use empathy to build trust and create an environment where students feel safe and supported.

4. Process Over Product  

Untapped believes in focusing on growth rather than just the outcome. Coaches help students embrace the learning process, encouraging resilience and continuous improvement.

5. Supportive Relationships 

Strong relationships are needed for effective coaching. Untapped coaches prioritize collaboration, communication, and advocacy, ensuring each student feels supported throughout their journey.

The Real Value of Untapped Learning

Untapped Learning doesn’t just improve grades, it impacts families, mindsets, and life skills. Here’s the true value Untapped Learning brings:

• Reduced Tension at Home: By tracking grades and assignments, Untapped reduces family stress around academics, allowing parents and students to focus on their relationships rather than schoolwork conflicts.

• Personalized Support: Untapped provides individualized learning plans and matches students with mentors who best fit their unique needs, ensuring that each student receives tailored support.

• Development of the Whole Child: Untapped focuses on building executive function skills that benefit students academically, personally, and socially, preparing them not just for school, but for life.

• Relatable Mentorship: Untapped pairs students with mentors who act as guides, bridging the gap between peer and authority figures and providing support that resonates with students.

• Flexible Formats: With both in-person and remote options, Untapped Learning makes EF coaching accessible for all students, providing convenient support for busy families or those in different locations.

Executive function skills are needed for academic success, personal growth, and long-term achievement. Untapped Learning’s unique approach to EF coaching, driven by core values and personalized support, equips students with practical tools to succeed. 

If you’re interested in learning more about how Untapped Learning can support your student’s development, reach out today to discover the difference our coaching can make.

For More:

Training Executive Functions to Improve Academic Achievement

An Examination of the Effects of ADHD Coaching on University Students’ Executive Functioning

The Relationship Between Executive Functions and Academic Performance in Primary Education

Brandon Slade is the founder of Untapped Learning. He combines his personal experience with executive function challenges with his years of experience in order to help students across the country.