Executive Function Skills Explained: Preparing for a Strong Start to the School Year
Why the weeks before school are the best time to build executive function skills.
Every August, I hear the same thing from multiple parents:
"Let's wait and see how the first few weeks go."
This makes sense since the new school year feels like a fresh start with new teachers, new classes, a clean planner, and good intentions.
For some students that's enough.
But more often, families don't reach out until September or October when the missing assignments start piling up, stress is increasing, and everyone feels like they're playing catch-up.
The truth is, the best time to build executive function skills is before school starts.
This week in my Executive Function Skills Explained series, we're looking at why the weeks before school begin are one of the best times to strengthen the skills students rely on all year.
What are executive function skills?
Executive function skills are the brain's self-management system. They help students plan ahead, stay organized, manage their time, get started on difficult tasks, and adjust when things don't go as expected.
These skills don't suddenly develop when school starts. Like any other skill, they become stronger through practice.
That's why the weeks before school begin are such a valuable opportunity. Students can learn and practice new strategies without the pressure of homework, quizzes, and deadlines.
High school asks students to manage much more than harder classes.
For many students, the transition to high school means:
More teachers and different expectations.
Longer-term projects.
Greater independence.
Less reminding from adults.
More responsibility for managing time and assignments.
Students who did well in middle school can find themselves overwhelmed, not because they aren't capable, but because the demands have changed.
Executive function skills like planning, organization, time management, and task initiation become more important than ever.
Preparation builds confidence.
Confidence grows from preparation not perfection.
When students have systems in place before the first day of school, they walk into class differently.
They know where to keep track of assignments.
They have routines for staying organized.
They understand how to plan ahead instead of waiting until the last minute.
They've practiced strategies before they're under pressure.
They rely on their plan instead of just hoping things will go well.
The weeks before school are a unique opportunity.
One of my favorite times to work with students is during the weeks leading up to school.
Without nightly homework and upcoming tests, we can focus on building skills.
Together, we work on things like:
Organizing binders, backpacks, and digital files.
Creating a planning system they can use.
Learning time management strategies.
Building routines that fit their schedule.
Preparing for the increased independence that comes with high school.
A few intentional weeks now can make the entire school year feel more manageable.
This Week's Action Step
Before school starts, ask your teen:
"What's one part of the school year you feel most confident about, and what's one part you're a little worried about?"
Listen without jumping in to solve the problem.
Their answer can help you identify which executive function skills—planning, organization, time management, task initiation, or self-advocacy—may need the most support before the first day of school.
You don't have to wait until your teen is overwhelmed to seek support.
If your child is entering high school, or simply struggles with organization, planning, procrastination, or follow-through, now is a great time to build those skills.
The goal is helping your teen walk into the school year feeling prepared, capable, and confident.
I'd love to help your family get there.
Ready to learn more?
Schedule a free 20-minute Parent Clarity Call, and we'll talk about your teen's goals and whether executive function coaching is the right fit.
About Me
I’m an educator and executive function coach passionate about helping kids with ADHD and learning differences thrive. After years of seeing bright students struggle with organization, focus, and confidence, I guide parents and children with practical strategies that work in the real world.
If you are ready to help your child succeed and build lasting skills, schedule a 1:1 coaching session today.
