By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., School Psychologist
Parents often tell me the same thing about their teenager: “My child is smart, but they’re disorganized, forgetful, overwhelmed, and constantly procrastinating.” If that sounds familiar, your teen may not lack intelligence or motivation. Instead, they may need stronger executive functioning skills.
Executive functioning is the brain’s management system. These skills help teens plan ahead, stay organized, manage time, remember assignments, regulate emotions, and follow through on tasks. Research and clinical experience consistently show that executive functioning skills are essential for academic success, independence, and confidence.
The challenge is that many middle and high school students are expected to “just know” how to manage increasing academic demands without ever being directly taught these skills. As coursework becomes more complex, students who struggle with organization, planning, and attention can begin to feel frustrated, discouraged, or anxious.
That is why I created my executive functioning course for students in grades 6 to 9. In Jupiter or Port St. Lucie, we teach practical skills in a fun, interactive, and supportive environment. Students participate in activities, scenarios, and guided discussions that help them learn strategies related to organization, planning, time management, memory, and attention.
A big benefit of executive functioning instruction is increased independence. Parents often feel exhausted from constantly reminding their teen about homework, projects, missing assignments, and schedules. Stronger executive functioning skills help students rely less on parents and develop more ownership of their responsibilities.
Another major benefit is improved confidence. Many teens with executive functioning weaknesses begin to believe they are “bad at school,” when in reality they simply need systems and strategies that match how their brain works. Learning practical tools can help students feel more capable and successful.
Our course is taught by male school psychologists and includes hands-on instruction, take-home materials, and a follow-up Zoom session to reinforce skills and accountability. Executive functioning skills are not fixed traits. They can be taught, practiced, and strengthened over time. Investing in these skills now can help your teen succeed not only in school, but also in future college, career, and life responsibilities. Visit JimForgan.com/executive or call (561) 625-4125.
