The Benefits of an Executive Function Tutor (at any age)

Before diving into the specifics, let’s define executive functioning. It refers to a set of mental skills that enable us to plan, organize, focus attention, regulate emotions, and adapt to changing situations. They also allow us to think ahead, communicate clearly, and problem solve. In essence, executive functions are the command center of the brain that helps individuals manage their daily lives effectively.

THE IMPORTANCE OF EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING SUPPORT

Grades 4-6: Building Foundations

• In these early middle school years, students start to take on more academic responsibility as tasks increase in difficulty and complexity. Executive functioning skills like time management, organization, and prioritization become crucial.
• Expert tutors can help students create structured routines, develop study habits, and manage their assignments effectively.
• Building these skills early sets a solid foundation for success in later grades.

Grades 7-9: Transitioning to Greater Independence

• As students transition to high school, the demands on their executive functioning skills increase significantly. They must juggle multiple subjects, extracurricular activities, and social pressures as school work becomes more independent.
• An expert tutor can guide them in developing more advanced skills, such as goal setting, decision-making, and self-monitoring.
• This stage is critical for honing executive functioning skills as they directly impact high school performance and college readiness.

Grades 10-12: Preparing for the Future

• In the final years of high school, students are not only focused on academics but also on college applications, standardized tests, and extracurricular commitments.
• Expert tutors can provide specialized guidance for managing the logistics of college applications, essay writing, and interview preparation, working alongside our Senior Private Counselors to offer comprehensive support and strategic planning, customized to each student’s needs and challenges.
• Effective executive functioning support at this stage can significantly enhance a student’s chances of gaining admission to top-tier colleges and universities.
• This support also prepares students for the self-management and direction they will need for successful independent work in college

THE BENEFITS OF EXPERT EXECUTIVE FUNCTION TUTORS

Working with an expert Executive Function Tutor offers several benefits for students of all ages:

• Individualized Support: Expert tutors tailor their support to each student’s unique needs, ensuring a personalized approach to executive functioning skill development.
• Accountability: Tutors provide a level of accountability that motivates students to stay on track, meet deadlines, and set and achieve their goals.
• Stress Reduction: As the workload and expectations increase, students can experience stress and anxiety. Expert tutors can offer strategies for managing these emotions effectively.
• College Readiness: For high school students, expert tutors can provide guidance on college selection, application strategies, and interview preparation, enhancing their prospects of gaining admission to top colleges.
• Lifelong Skills: The executive functioning skills developed with the help of expert tutors are not limited to academics. They are valuable life skills that will serve students well in their future careers and personal lives.

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Becca Semel received her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University after receiving her M.S.Ed. from the University of Pennsylvania, and BA from the University of Michigan. She has 7+ years of experience working in an executive functioning coaching capacity and works with students ages 10 and older.

Becca works from a strengths-based approach, recognizing that each individual holds a unique set of strengths and areas of growth, and capitalizing on these areas. Becca works with students to support their executive functioning and organizational skills, refining skills such as time management, planning, and studying. Becca draws from her clinical background to gain a holistic understanding of her students and builds strong, supportive relationships. Becca uses warmth, empathy, and humor to support her clients on their journey.

Becca’s Top 5 Time Management Tips

Time management is a “buzzphrase”- but what does it really mean? Having good time management skills sets you up for success in all domains of your life, including school, extracurricular activities, and even time spent with friends! Here are the top five tips to help you better manage your time and your schedule:

1. Start with the big picture: Make an overall list of everything that you have to do
2. Make time estimates: How long will each task take?
3. Check your schedule: Look at your schedule for the day, highlighting when you have open time
4. Fill in the blanks: Now that you’ve estimated how long each task will take, plug the tasks into the open times that you highlighted on your calendar where they fit. Bonus: prioritize which task is most important by thinking about how long it might take, how hard it is, and when it is due. Top priority tasks should be your starting point!
5. Ready, set, go! Take a deep, grounding breath and start your work! Use your schedule as a guide, and set timers based on your time estimations for each task. This will help you to stay on track.