How to Tell If Your Teen Struggles With Executive Functioning Skills
Executive functioning skills are the brain’s management system, the set of mental tools that help teens plan, stay organized, manage time, remember details, and regulate emotions. These skills are essential for independence, confidence, and success in both school and daily life. But for many teens, executive functioning doesn’t come naturally, and the signs of struggle can often be misunderstood.
Signs Your Teen May Struggle With Executive Functioning
If you’ve noticed some of these patterns, your teen may need extra support:
Difficulty starting tasks – They procrastinate, feel overwhelmed, or can’t figure out where to begin.
Poor time management – They underestimate how long things take and often rush at the last minute.
Disorganization – Their backpack, desk, or digital files are constantly messy or missing materials.
Forgetfulness – Assignments, due dates, and responsibilities frequently slip through the cracks.
Trouble prioritizing – Everything feels urgent, or they spend too much time on unimportant tasks.
Emotional outbursts – Frustration comes quickly when plans change or things feel “too hard.”
Difficulty transitioning – Moving from one activity to another or refocusing after distractions feels impossible.
Why Executive Functioning Struggles Matter
Teens with weak executive functioning often know what they need to do, they just can’t organize, plan, or sustain focus long enough to do it. Over time, this can lead to lower grades, stress, decreased self-esteem, and family tension. With guidance, though, these skills can absolutely be strengthened.
How Parents Can Help
Encourage planners or digital calendars for tracking assignments and activities.
Break big tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
Create consistent routines and visual reminders.
Focus on progress, not perfection, celebrate small wins.
Consider professional support from tutors or executive function coaches.
Partnering With Minkus Educational Solutions
At Minkus Educational Solutions, we partner with parents to help teens build stronger executive functioning, organization, and study skills. Serving families in Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Skokie, Highland Park, Lake Forest and surrounding suburbs, our customized programs empower students to become confident, independent learners, ready to succeed in school and beyond.
