Supporting planning and organisation in the classroom
In my role as a social worker collaborating with schools, I've seen firsthand how crucial executive functioning (EF) skills are to student success. While I may not be in a classroom every day, I work closely with educators to implement supports and accommodations for students with learning differences - and I’ve noticed that challenges with EF often go unnoticed.
Why Executive Functioning Matters
EF skills are the mental processes that help learners plan, organise, manage time, and execute tasks (as well as regulate emotions). When these skills are underdeveloped, even students with great potential can struggle. They may:
Lose or misplace items frequently: What might seem like mere disorganisation can significantly disrupt their learning process.
Have difficulty initiating tasks: A student may feel stuck, not knowing how to get started.
Spend excessive time organising materials: For instance, searching for a pencil sharpener or sorting through books instead of engaging with the lesson.
Rely heavily on peers for guidance: Regularly asking, “What do we do next?” can indicate that a student is struggling to independently navigate tasks.
The Impact in Educational Settings
These EF challenges can lead to:
Increased frustration and lower self-esteem: Repeated setbacks, challenges and confusion can diminish a student’s confidence.
Missed learning opportunities: Valuable instructional time is lost when students are managing EF difficulties.
Greater demands on educators: Teachers often need to provide ad-hoc extra support, which can impact the flow of the classroom.
By recognising and addressing these challenges, we can make a real difference. With targeted strategies and the right tools, educators can help build not only academic skills but also lifelong skills like independence and self-confidence.
Practical Strategies for Supporting EF
Based on my experience working with educators, here are some effective strategies:
Visual Supports: Break tasks into clear, manageable steps using visual cues.
Structured Routines: Consistent schedules help students know what to expect.
Explicit, Step-by-Step Instructions: Simplify complex tasks to make them more accessible.
Organisational Tools: Items like timers, checklists, and colour-coded materials can transform a student’s ability to manage their workload.
One resource that has proven particularly effective is a visual framework called Get Ready, Do, Done - I’ve adapted the original version to create a neuro-affirming resource with a detailed explanation of how to use it.
Get Ready, Do, Done is designed to help students transition smoothly from planning to execution. It includes:
Step-by-step instructions: Clear guidance on how to use the tool effectively.
Versatile applications: Practical ideas for implementation in both school and home settings.
This resource is part of my commitment to supporting educators in addressing EF challenges and ensuring every student has the tools to succeed.
💡 Ready to empower your students? Grab your free copy of Get Ready, Do, Done here!
