Welcome to our discussion about executive functions. My name is Jennifer and I will be moderating the discussion tonight. Please take a moment to introduce yourself. #ProDriven
Welcome!! Here is the first question. Executive functions are the functions that allow us to set goals, plan & prioritize, organize our time, regulate behavior and access working memory. What is your knowledge or interest regarding executive functions. #ProDriven
Mike, Tech Integrator from NY. Been trying to make #ProDriven for a few weeks now and finally did it. Looking forward to learning with you all tonight.
Welcome!! Here is the first question. Executive functions are the functions that allow us to set goals, plan & prioritize, organize our time, regulate behavior and access working memory. What is your knowledge or interest regarding executive functions. #ProDriven
I’m on a parental learning journey for the sake of my 6yr-old who struggles with it. Bough “Smart but Scattered” and my wife and I are reading in. Want to provide him routines so he can be successfully independent as he gets older. #ProDriven
Welcome!! Here is the first question. Executive functions are the functions that allow us to set goals, plan & prioritize, organize our time, regulate behavior and access working memory. What is your knowledge or interest regarding executive functions. #ProDriven
A1: I first heard about executive functioning skills 7 years ago from an amazing speech path. Since then, I've attempted to provide support for ALL Ss regarding goal setting, planning, time management, organization, and study skills. Believe these are Tier 1!
#ProDriven
A1: Just getting started learning about executive functions but something that I feel is important for our students at all ages. Need this for my own children too. #ProDriven
Mike, Tech Integrator from NY. Been trying to make #ProDriven for a few weeks now and finally did it. Looking forward to learning with you all tonight.
Yes. The more I read, the more I say to myself, “This are skills ALL kids need.” My son just struggles with them a little more. Learning more and more. #ProDriven
Mike, Tech Integrator from NY. Been trying to make #ProDriven for a few weeks now and finally did it. Looking forward to learning with you all tonight.
Yes. The more I read, the more I say to myself, “This are skills ALL kids need.” My son just struggles with them a little more. Learning more and more. #ProDriven
Yes. The more I read, the more I say to myself, “This are skills ALL kids need.” My son just struggles with them a little more. Learning more and more. #ProDriven
A1: I first heard about executive functioning skills 7 years ago from an amazing speech path. Since then, I've attempted to provide support for ALL Ss regarding goal setting, planning, time management, organization, and study skills. Believe these are Tier 1!
#ProDriven
A1: One thing I’ve started to really focus on is the self-regulation since that seems to be the biggest on for all ages. Thought about doing the marshmallow test with my kids next summer when we're home. #ProDriven
Here is questions 2:
Students come to our classrooms with a variety of strengths and struggles regarding executive functions. What are some of the struggles you see your students dealing with in terms of executive functions? #ProDriven
One of my favorite things about #Blendedlearning models is they help students find agency, take ownership, and self-direct learning--all essential executive functioning skills--like peas and carrots! And BL gives Ts more small group time to provide extra support #ProDriven
Yes. The more I read, the more I say to myself, “This are skills ALL kids need.” My son just struggles with them a little more. Learning more and more. #ProDriven
Here is question 2:
Students come to our classrooms with a variety of strengths and struggles regarding executive functions. What are some of the struggles you see your students dealing with in terms of executive functions?
One of my favorite things about #Blendedlearning models is they help students find agency, take ownership, and self-direct learning--all essential executive functioning skills--like peas and carrots! And BL gives Ts more small group time to provide extra support #ProDriven
Sometimes the self-regulation comes a little later in the classroom arena. You have to build that trust relationship before the students are ready to talk about emotional control & self-regulation. #ProDriven
A2: Biggest struggle is prioritization and time management. Often Ss can't form a plan of action and then become dependent learners. I want independent learners! #ProDriven
A1 My interest is in learning more so I’ll be a better learner/teacher in this department. For my students, teachers I support & my own kids here at home (2 yr and 5 yr). I like to think I navigate this well but at times may stumble. Like anything else, practice helps. #ProDriven
Welcome!! Here is the first question. Executive functions are the functions that allow us to set goals, plan & prioritize, organize our time, regulate behavior and access working memory. What is your knowledge or interest regarding executive functions. #ProDriven
I see organization to be an area of concern with some of the students I work with, along with knowing how to get organized in their brains to get started. #ProDriven
Here is questions 2:
Students come to our classrooms with a variety of strengths and struggles regarding executive functions. What are some of the struggles you see your students dealing with in terms of executive functions? #ProDriven
Time management is a huge issue for our students. They lead such busy lives and need the tools of time management to be able to get everything done. #ProDriven
Here is question 2:
Students come to our classrooms with a variety of strengths and struggles regarding executive functions. What are some of the struggles you see your students dealing with in terms of executive functions?
It has been exciting to connect mindfulness with these two executive functions. I have seen amazing things when visiting elementary classrooms. #ProDriven
Sometimes the self-regulation comes a little later in the classroom arena. You have to build that trust relationship before the students are ready to talk about emotional control & self-regulation. #ProDriven
One of my favorite things about #Blendedlearning models is they help students find agency, take ownership, and self-direct learning--all essential executive functioning skills--like peas and carrots! And BL gives Ts more small group time to provide extra support #ProDriven
We could say the same for many of ourselves! I end each day with making a to-do list for the next and begin each day by prioritizing. Adult modeling and being transparent about our own habits is key to helping Ss! #ProDriven
I see organization to be an area of concern with some of the students I work with, along with knowing how to get organized in their brains to get started. #ProDriven
A2. A lot of my students have been told what they can and cannot do. They have been labeled. We spend a lot of time helping them learn how to think and act by and for themselves. #prodriven
Here is question #3:
Many times, we assume that students have been taught these skills prior to coming to our classroom. Why do you think students struggle with some of these basic executive skills?
#ProDriven
Here is question #3:
Many times, we assume that students have been taught these skills prior to coming to our classroom. Why do you think students struggle with some of these basic executive skills?
#ProDriven
@Ready4rigor "Culturally Responsive Teaching" has a great section about dependent vs. independent learners--almost exactly as you have described. Teach them to fish--stop feeding them junk food! #ProDriven
A2 I think a struggle is them saying they can multi-task well. Can anyone really do this well? Add the fact that distractions are coming from every angle and they have quite a challenge in front of them. #ProDriven
Here is question 2:
Students come to our classrooms with a variety of strengths and struggles regarding executive functions. What are some of the struggles you see your students dealing with in terms of executive functions?
Here is question #3:
Many times, we assume that students have been taught these skills prior to coming to our classroom. Why do you think students struggle with some of these basic executive skills?
#ProDriven
We spend a lot of our time talking about how to manage our time and focus. One strategy that has helped the students is a timer being set. Seems simple, but yet has been very effective. #ProDriven
Here is question #3:
Many times, we assume that students have been taught these skills prior to coming to our classroom. Why do you think students struggle with some of these basic executive skills?
#ProDriven
A3. Our educational system has for decades now, has been about the test, so many of our younger students are now second generation test takers not necessarily deep thinkers. #prodriven
We are currently working with students to use the technology to help them manage several of the executive functions. It is important to model that to our students, as well. #ProDriven
A3: Technology, the decline of the "nuclear family," pop culture, you name it--However, I do feel like we are in the midst of a pendulum swing. We've seen the destruction (old millennial speaking). We are trying to remedy. #ProDriven
A3: I think giving kids the time to reflect on these skills and develop the necessary metacognition to address them is important and often overlooked. #ProDriven
@Ready4rigor "Culturally Responsive Teaching" has a great section about dependent vs. independent learners--almost exactly as you have described. Teach them to fish--stop feeding them junk food! #ProDriven
We have spent some significant time specifically teaching the organization strategy. To help with student buy in -- give them some options, but let them choose. Also give them the TIME to do this during class or during the day #ProDriven
@Ready4rigor "Culturally Responsive Teaching" has a great section about dependent vs. independent learners--almost exactly as you have described. Teach them to fish--stop feeding them junk food! #ProDriven
A3: According to WebMD, "Some people are born with weak executive function. People with ADHD, depression, or learning disabilities often have problems with these skills. An injury to the front of the brain can harm your ability to stay on task." #ProDriven
We have spent some significant time specifically teaching the organization strategy. To help with student buy in -- give them some options, but let them choose. Also give them the TIME to do this during class or during the day #ProDriven
We have spent some significant time specifically teaching the organization strategy. To help with student buy in -- give them some options, but let them choose. Also give them the TIME to do this during class or during the day #ProDriven
Absolutely agree!! The final executive function skill I teach is metacognition with the goal of students being independent thinkers and aware of what works and doesn't work for them. #ProDriven
A3: According to WebMD, "Some people are born with weak executive function. People with ADHD, depression, or learning disabilities often have problems with these skills. An injury to the front of the brain can harm your ability to stay on task." #ProDriven
I have used a Google Form that I have created for general student feedback. Students in academic classes answer a couple of reflective questions a week. My learning lab journals and sets goals around the executive functions. Both of those have been helpful. #ProDriven
In addition, there is a survey in the Smart But Scattered book for teens. It allows them the opportunity to answer questions to see what skills are strengths and what skills are areas for improvement. #ProDriven
Question #4:
Many of us already incorporate organizational strategies into our classroom. What are some planning, prioritizing and organizational activities that you currently teach your students?
#ProDriven
I really wanted to buy this for my 6yr-old. The Octopus Watch helps track certain routines and gives them reminders. However, I didn’t buy it b/c it’s not waterproof. Waiting for vs. 2.0. https://t.co/sKeehv7Glz#ProDriven
Oh I hear you there. Once our 5 yr old learned how to tell it to play his favorite songs and turn the volume to the max it all went downhill 😂. #ProDriven
Well I'm frugal and live in an apartment w/ shared laundry. A few weeks ago someone stole an entire load of towels. Now I know it takes 40 min per load. Gotta protect my drawers! #ProDriven
In reply to
@chillmanisu, @jbormann3, @m_drez, @JenniferWessels
Here is question 5:
Many times students struggle with sustained attention in the classroom. What are some ways you have tried to help students come back from a break?#ProDriven
A4: Simple and powerful during work days/writing workshops. Take out a sticky note. Write down your goal for the day. Stick it on your computer. I'll be around for informal check-ins and support. End of the day exit ticket: Did you achieve your goal? Why or why not/ #ProDriven
Question #4:
Many of us already incorporate organizational strategies into our classroom. What are some planning, prioritizing and organizational activities that you currently teach your students?
#ProDriven
Question #6:
Task Initiation & time management -- students struggle with how long something will take and how to get started on an assignment. Why do you think this is such a struggle for students and how can it be overcome?
#ProDriven
A4: Something I’ve always wanted to do is paint the side of the fridge with Idea Paint, or a wall in each of their rooms, so that they can mind-map or organize their task/ideas any way that makes sense to them. Just having trouble convincing my wife. #ProDriven
Question #4:
Many of us already incorporate organizational strategies into our classroom. What are some planning, prioritizing and organizational activities that you currently teach your students?
#ProDriven
A4 I don’t have my own class of students but when we do anything with digital media creation we use storyboards to plan out. I also share Google Keep with them. I’ve seen some schools use this to replace the traditional agenda. #ProDriven
Question #4:
Many of us already incorporate organizational strategies into our classroom. What are some planning, prioritizing and organizational activities that you currently teach your students?
#ProDriven
I saw that on a blog post about executive function apps. Very curious...it looks like it has a lot of possibilities. I want to practice a little bit myself before I model it for students. #ProDriven
A6: I’ve always created to-do lists, but have never been taught how to predict the time it will take to complete each task or prioritize the list. I didn’t start doing this until I was an adult, unfortunately. #ProDriven
Question #6:
Task Initiation & time management -- students struggle with how long something will take and how to get started on an assignment. Why do you think this is such a struggle for students and how can it be overcome?
#ProDriven
A6: Lack of modeling and think alouds from adults. I learned task initiation and time management from planning projects with my parents. Eventually they let me plan and gave feedback. As Ts we need to model that process and provide a think aloud during--several times. #ProDriven
We also talk in class about how important it is to follow through on your plan, not just create it. Students sometimes struggle with the follow through part. #ProDriven
Question #7:
Emotional control and response inhibition help us regulate our behavior. By working on these, we can promote a positive environment in our classroom. How would students benefit from being able to regulate their behavior?
#ProDriven
A6: I think part of it is that their prefrontal cortex is not yet completely developed. One of our teachers started to calendar each day for her research paper, most success she has seen with Ss meeting deadlines in awhile. #ProDriven
Question #6:
Task Initiation & time management -- students struggle with how long something will take and how to get started on an assignment. Why do you think this is such a struggle for students and how can it be overcome?
#ProDriven
It is so important to given our students as many examples of how to use the executive functions in a wide variety of applications. Thanks so much for sharing. #ProDriven
A7: We all benefit! Recent article about replacing detention with #Mindfulness keeps coming back to me....so valuable! Fewer absences, suspensions, expulsions. #ProDriven
We probably need to focus on areas we could improve upon as adults too and show our vulnerability to students for them to see us as constant learners with a growth mindset #ProDriven
A5 I think it is important to allow adequate breaks. In our schools they have 3-4 minutes between classes. I learned in #TeachLikeFinland that they have 15 minute breaks between all classes/transitions. Our younger classrooms use @GoNoodle for brain breaks. #ProDriven
Here is question 5:
Many times students struggle with sustained attention in the classroom. What are some ways you have tried to help students come back from a break?#ProDriven
Question #7:
Emotional control and response inhibition help us regulate our behavior. By working on these, we can promote a positive environment in our classroom. How would students benefit from being able to regulate their behavior?
#ProDriven
I use a Google Chrome Extension That has me type in my focus for the day. I am blanking on the name of it but it is nice that it pops up each morning. #ProDriven
A7: They would prevent themselves from speaking too soon out of turn or physically reacting negatively when a negative reaction wasn’t necessary. #ProDriven
Question #7:
Emotional control and response inhibition help us regulate our behavior. By working on these, we can promote a positive environment in our classroom. How would students benefit from being able to regulate their behavior?
#ProDriven
Students have really embraced some of the components of #Mindfulness and it is making such a difference in the classroom. Part of that is just an awareness. #ProDriven
Sometimes my to-do list makes me cringe. Every time I knock one thing off, two more pop up. Please tell me that this is the same for everyone else! #ProDriven
Question #8:
We have just touched on some of the executive functions. Ideally, our students should be able to use them independently. How can we help them along this path? #ProDriven
A8: Gradual release method. I Do, We Do, You Do. Inform parents. Get them to buy-in. In and ideal situation, work should happen in and out of school. #ProDriven
I would agree!!
Sometimes I just write the 2 or 3 most important and focus on those first, then take a break and then come back to the next couple. I try to model this for my students, as well. It is definitely a work in progress for all of us. #ProDriven.
Question #8:
We have just touched on some of the executive functions. Ideally, our students should be able to use them independently. How can we help them along this path? #ProDriven
A7 I really like how conversations and efforts around bringing mindfulness to the classroom are becoming more common. It seems that negative behaviors are reduced and it allows students to focus more clearly. I’m sure the benefits are worth the time investment. #ProDriven
Question #7:
Emotional control and response inhibition help us regulate our behavior. By working on these, we can promote a positive environment in our classroom. How would students benefit from being able to regulate their behavior?
#ProDriven
Yes!! So much of the research talks about scaffolding the help. It is important to slowly remove the interventions and allow more ownership and independence for our students. #ProDriven
I was just in an elementary classroom today doing a mindfulness lesson and by the end of the day the teacher emailed to tell me how both the Ss and she had used it to calm each other. #ProDriven
A7 I really like how conversations and efforts around bringing mindfulness to the classroom are becoming more common. It seems that negative behaviors are reduced and it allows students to focus more clearly. I’m sure the benefits are worth the time investment. #ProDriven
Question #7:
Emotional control and response inhibition help us regulate our behavior. By working on these, we can promote a positive environment in our classroom. How would students benefit from being able to regulate their behavior?
#ProDriven
Absolutely agree. Students need to have buy in and choice. Sometimes with executive skills, we set specific goals that are individual and allow students to track their own progress. We celebrate progress, not perfection.
#ProDriven.
Question #9:
One of the remaining executive functions is metacognition (thinking about thinking). As we work on Executive function awareness, how can we teach our students about recognizing their own strengths and struggles?
#ProDriven
She sent a letter home to parents explaining the mindfulness practices you worked on with the students too. Great ways to bridge those skills over to home practice too. #ProDriven
A9: Self-reflection is critical for growth. Making time to allow students to self-reflect and set goals shows the importance and allows them to get support. #ProDriven
Question #9:
One of the remaining executive functions is metacognition (thinking about thinking). As we work on Executive function awareness, how can we teach our students about recognizing their own strengths and struggles?
#ProDriven
The first big challenge regarding executive functions is awareness that they exist, awareness of strengths and awareness of weaknesses. Part of this learning journey is about improving awareness first and finding ways to support all of our students. #ProDriven
Question #9:
One of the remaining executive functions is metacognition (thinking about thinking). As we work on Executive function awareness, how can we teach our students about recognizing their own strengths and struggles?
#ProDriven
For my last question
Here are some resources i have used
Books:
Smart but Scattered Teens
Executive Skills in Children and Adolescents both by Dawson & Guare
Websites:
Understood
Attitude Magazine
Do you have any resources to share?
#ProDriven
For my last question.
Here are some resources I have used
Books:
Smart but Scattered Teens
Executive Skills in Children and Adolescents both by Dawson & Guare
Websites:
Understood
Attitude Magazine
Do you have any resources to share? #ProDriven
For my last question.
Here are some resources I have used
Books:
Smart but Scattered Teens
Executive Skills in Children and Adolescents both by Dawson & Guare
Websites:
Understood
Attitude Magazine
Do you have any resources to share? #ProDriven
Thanks for all of the convo #ProDriven crew. I could hardly keep up with the action. Hope to catch you all back here soon. Have a great week and an outstanding October!
