Does your child lose papers, forget to turn in their homework, or wait until the last minute to start a project? If so, they may have weak executive functioning skills. Many students are bright and capable but struggle with organization, time management, planning, and following through on tasks. As academic demands increase, these skills become just as important as subject knowledge for success in school. By teaching your child strategies for building these skills now, you can help set them up for long-term success.

What Are Executive Functioning Skills?

Executive functioning skills enable students to plan, organize, regulate their behavior, and achieve goals. They help students learn and recall information, solve problems, and self-monitor their actions.

As schoolwork becomes more demanding, developing these skills can help your child become more confident, independent, and successful both in and out of the classroom.

What are Some Executive Functioning Strategies You Can Teach Your Child?

Time Management

Many students struggle with predicting how long they think an assignment will take to complete, often underestimating the required time commitment. They might think a book report can be completed the night before it’s due or assume a math sheet will only take ten minutes to finish when it actually requires an hour.

One technique you can teach your child is the ET vs. AT, or Estimated Time versus Actual Time strategy. To use this strategy, your child should select an assignment they need to complete and predict how much time they think it will take to finish that assignment. They should write down the ET, or estimated time. Then they should track how long the assignment actually takes to complete and write down the AT, or actual time. When students first use this strategy, there is often a significant discrepancy between the ET and AT. However, the more they practice the strategy, the more realistic they become about estimating their time, and the more their time management skills improve.

Organization

Many students struggle with their organizational skills and have difficulty managing their belongings, including their papers, digital files, and homework assignments. Teach your child this 3-tier organizational system to help them improve their organizational skills:

Tier 1 is the binder or folders/notebooks they take to school on a regular basis. They should designate one day per week to clean out their folders, notebooks, and backpack (perhaps every Friday or another day during the week), removing the papers and materials they no longer need to be carrying with them on a regular basis. They can either toss what they don’t need or file the papers they want to keep into Tier 2, which is an accordion file they keep at home. This accordion file should have three sections for each class: homework, notes, and test/quizzes. For example, they might have sections for math homework, math notes, math quizzes; social studies homework, social studies notes, and social studies tests/quizzes; and so on. When they clean out their backpack and notebooks, they should file the papers into the appropriate section of the accordion file and refer to them when it’s time for midterms or finals, or when they need to reference them for a project or assignment. Tier 3 is a filing drawer where they can put projects or assignments they are proud of and want to keep for the long run.

Planning and Prioritization

As students move through school, assignments typically become longer and more complex. Instead of having one homework sheet to complete per night, for example, they may need to juggle several long-term projects, homework assignments, and exams.

Help your child with planning and prioritizing these tasks by asking questions like:

• Which assignment do you need to complete first?
• Which task will likely take the longest?
• Which deadlines are coming up first?
• How can I break down this project into smaller steps?

Encourage your child to create simple checklists and come up with 1-2 priorities each day to help them feel less overwhelmed with their workload and more on top of what they need to get done.

Attention and Focus

In our current tech-filled world, it’s easy for students to become distracted, especially when working on their school assignments. One strategy they can use at home to help maintain focus and avoid distractions is called the Pomodoro Technique. To use this strategy, rather than trying to complete all their homework in one sitting, students can break down their work into timed segments, as follows:

They should start by setting a timer for 20 minutes and should work on their assignments for this time period, without taking any breaks and trying to avoid all distractions. Then, when the timer goes off, they should take a 5-minute break. This 25-minute window is called one Pomodoro Cycle. They should then set their timer again for 20 minutes, work for that time period, then take another 5-minute break. Once they have completed four Pomodoro Cycles, they should take a longer, 30-minute or so break.

If 20 minutes of work time is too long for your child initially, have them start with a shorter work period followed by a slightly longer break, with the goal being to ultimately reach the 20 minutes on, 5 minutes off work cycle. This will help them complete their schoolwork more efficiently and effectively.

Self-Monitoring

Many students rush to complete assignments and then submit them without taking time to review their work. Self-checking is an important executive functioning skill that helps students identify careless mistakes, correct their errors, and make sure they have completed all parts of their assignments.

Teach your child to self-monitor by asking questions like:

• Did I follow the instructions correctly?
• Did I answer all the questions?
• Did I make any careless errors?
• Do I need to revise my work?

Teaching your child to pause, review, and reflect on their work can help them minimize careless mistakes and become stronger, more independent students.

Closing Thoughts

Executive functioning skills play a role in essentially every subject. As students move through school, they are expected to organize their materials, manage their time, plan ahead, solve increasingly complex problems, and balance the demands of multiple classes and activities.

By teaching your child strategies to build their executive functioning skills, you can help them become more organized, confident, and independent students.

EBL Coaching specializes in one-on-one in person and virtual tutoring for students in grades pre-K-12 with specialized learning needs. They use research-based, multi-sensory techniques, including the Orton Gillingham method, to develop students’ reading, writing, math, note taking, test taking, and executive functioning skills. Each student is evaluated and then receives an individualized learning plan to address their specific academic needs. Learn more at http://www.eblcoaching.com/. Dr. Emily Levy, Founder & Director, is happy to hear from anyone who is in need for their child. You may reach her thru her website, and mention you heard of her thru MotherhoodLater.

The post Executive Functioning Skills Every Student Needs This School Year appeared first on EBL Coaching.

At EBL Coaching, we specialize in providing individualized executive functioning coaching to students throughout New York City, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. We work with elementary school, middle school, high school, and college students to help them strengthen their organization, planning, time management, and other executive functioning skills.

What Is Executive Functioning?

Executive functioning refers to a set of mental skills that help students plan, organize, manage their time, stay focused, remember instructions, and complete tasks. These skills are essential for success in school and life.

Students with weak executive functioning skills may:

• Consistently forget to turn in their homework
• Miss project and assignment deadlines
• Struggle to plan long-term projects
• Lose papers and personal belongings
• Have difficulty managing their time effectively
• Feel overwhelmed by large assignments
• Struggle to get started on homework
• Lose focus easily
• Have challenges following multi-step directions

Executive functioning weaknesses are common in students with ADHD or autism, but they can also occur in students without a formal diagnosis.

Learn more about executive functioning skills, including how they affect organization, planning, working memory, and self-control at What Are Executive Functioning Skills? A Simple Guide for Parents – EBL Coaching.

Why Executive Functioning Coaching Matters

Many students know what they need to accomplish but struggle to plan, organize, and complete tasks efficiently and consistently.

Executive functioning coaches can teach students concrete strategies that they can apply to their schoolwork and everyday tasks. With this coaching, students can learn research-based tools to help them improve their performance across all subjects.

With the right coaching, students can learn to:

• Organize their school materials
• Use planners and digital calendars effectively
• Break down large assignments into smaller steps
• Prioritize tasks
• Improve their time management skills
• Develop better homework routines
• Prepare for tests efficiently
• Reduce stress, frustration, and anxiety surrounding school

Stronger executive functioning skills can help students improve their grades, strengthen their confidence, and increase their motivation.

How to Choose the Best Executive Functioning Coach in NYC

Not all executive functioning coaches in NYC have the same background, training, or experience. When choosing an executive functioning coach in New York City, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure your child receives the right support.

Learn more about how to choose the right ADHD tutor in our guide, How to Find an ADHD Tutor Near You, at How to Find an ADHD Tutor Near You – EBL Coaching.

Experience Working with Students of Various Ages

Executive functioning strategies vary based on the age, grade, and skill level of students. Look for executive functioning coaches who have experience working with students in NYC schools and who understand the academic expectations of different grade levels, school environments, and educational settings.

Knowledge of Learning Differences

Many students throughout NYC who struggle with executive functioning also have a diagnosis such as ADHD, autism, or a specific learning disability. An experienced coach who understands the needs of students in New York City schools can individualize strategies to support each child’s academic success.

Learn more about our ADHD tutoring and executive functioning coaching services at Best ADHD Tutors in NYC for Executive Functioning & Academic Support.

Individualized Instruction

Every student has unique strengths, challenges, and learning needs. Effective executive functioning coaching should be personalized to each student’s individual goals and skill level, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.

Concrete, Research-Based Strategies

The best executive functioning coaches teach students strategies that they can apply in school, including:

• Planning systems
• Organizational tools
• Time management strategies
• Note taking techniques
• Study skills
• Test preparation strategies
• Self-monitoring tools

Collaboration with Families

Parents can play a helpful role in reinforcing executive functioning techniques at home. Strong coaches should communicate regularly with parents, providing updates and recommendations to support continued progress.

Who Benefits from Executive Functioning Coaching?

Executive functioning coaching can help different types of students, including those who attend NYC public schools, private schools, independent schools, and colleges who need additional support managing increasing academic demands. Students who can benefit from executive functioning coaching includes those who:

• Have ADHD
• Have a learning disability
• Have autism
• Are disorganized
• Forget to turn in assignments
• Procrastinate tasks
• Struggle to complete homework independently
• Become easily overwhelmed by school demands
• Have difficulty preparing for tests
• Have poor study habits

Students don’t need an official diagnosis to benefit from executive functioning coaching.

Executive Functioning Skills We Help Students Develop

At EBL Coaching, we specialize in helping students strengthen their executive functioning skills such as:

Organization

With executive functioning coaching, students throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island can learn strategies for organizing their binders, folders, notebooks, backpacks, digital files, homework assignments, and school materials.

Time Management

Students learn how to predict how long tasks will take, create realistic schedules, and avoid last-minute cramming.

Planning

Students learn how to break down large assignments into smaller, more manageable steps with clear goals.

Prioritization

Executive functioning coaches can help students decide which assignments they should complete first and how to balance their other tasks and responsibilities.

Study Skills

During executive functioning coaching sessions, students can learn effective note taking tools, memory techniques, and test preparation strategies.

Self-Monitoring

Students learn to evaluate their own work, identify mistakes, and adjust accordingly.

Why Families Choose EBL Coaching

For over twenty years, EBL Coaching has helped students throughout New York City, including families in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island, build the academic and executive functioning skills needed for long-term success.

Families often choose EBL Coaching because we offer:

• Highly experienced tutors
• Individualized executive functioning coaching
• Evidence-based instructional methods
• Specialized support for students with ADHD and learning disabilities
• In-person and online sessions with flexible scheduling
• Collaboration with parents, teachers, and schools
• Individualized strategies catered to the needs of each student

We do more than just homework support; we help students develop lifelong habits to become more confident and independent learners.

Helping Students Build Skills for Lifelong Success

Executive functioning skills can affect essentially every subject at school. When students learn how to organize their work, manage their time, plan ahead, and study effectively, they often become more independent and successful students.

If you’re looking for specialized, research-based executive functioning coaching in NYC, EBL Coaching provides individualized support for students throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, and surrounding New York City communities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Executive Functioning Coaching in NYC

What is the difference between executive functioning coaching and tutoring?
Tutoring typically focuses primarily on academic skills such as reading, writing, and math. Executive functioning coaching teaches students concrete strategies for skills such as organization, planning, time management, and study skills that can help them excel across all subjects.

Does executive functioning coaching help students with ADHD?
Yes! Many students with ADHD struggle with their executive functioning skills and benefit from executive functioning coaching. They often need to develop their planning, organization, working memory, and time management skills.

At what age should executive functioning coaching begin?
Executive functioning coaching can benefit students as early as elementary school, but many students begin receiving support during middle school and high school years, when the academic demands increase.

How often should students receive executive functioning coaching?
The frequency of executive functioning coaching varies based on the needs of each student. Some students benefit from one or two sessions per week, while others need more frequent weekly sessions, depending on the severity of their needs.

Does EBL Coaching offer executive functioning coaching throughout NYC?
Yes. EBL Coaching provides executive functioning coaching to students throughout NYC, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, and surrounding areas. We work with students from a variety of educational settings and also offer online executive functioning coaching for students outside the NYC area.

Where can I find an executive functioning coach in NYC?
Families looking for an executive functioning coach in NYC for their child can choose EBL Coaching for individualized support. Our coaching help students throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, and surrounding areas develop organization, planning, time management, and study skills.

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, has helped thousands of students improve their executive functioning skills over the past twenty years. She is the author of the Strategies do Study Success student workbook series, the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook program, and the Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math student workbook series. She speaks nationally at educational conferences and frequently appears on podcasts as an educational expert. She has also been featured in publications including Newsweek, Autism Advocate Parenting Magazine, Epoch Times, and Macaroni Kids.

The post Best Executive Functioning Coach in NYC: How to Choose appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Writing is a complex process that requires many skills working together, including memory, organization, attention, handwriting, language, and executive functioning. Even very bright children can struggle with writing.

In this guide, we’ll explain why smart students struggle with writing, the most common underlying causes, and how specialized writing tutoring can help.

Why Is Writing So Difficult?

Writing requires students to use many different skills at the same time. As they write, they must:

• Come up with ideas
• Organize their thoughts
• Identify the right vocabulary words to use
• Use correct grammar, capitalization, and punctuation
• Spell words correctly
• Write letters properly or type efficiently
• Use correct sentence structure
• Self-edit their work

Some students can write with ease, even with all the tasks involved. Other students, however, struggle with one or more of these skills, making writing challenging and overwhelming, even when they understand the topic and directions.

Common Reasons Smart Kids Struggle with Writing

There are many reasons why smart kids may struggle with writing, including:

Weak Executive Functioning Skills

Executive functioning skills help students plan, organize, and monitor their work. Some students have strong ideas but struggle to structure them into well-organized sentences, paragraphs, and essays.

Students who struggle with their executive functioning skills often:

• Have trouble getting started with writing assignments
• Leave out important details that support their ideas
• Move from one idea to the next without a logical flow
• Struggle to organize their paragraphs and essays
• Turn in incomplete writing assignments
• Neglect to self-check their work

Are you wondering whether your child needs extra support? Learn the 10 signs your child may benefit from writing tutoring at 10 Signs Your Child Needs Writing Tutoring – EBL Coaching.

Dysgraphia

Dysgraphia is a learning disability that affects a student’s ability to express their thoughts clearly and effectively when writing.

Signs that you child may have dysgraphia can include:

• Slow writing
• Poor letter formation
• Trouble spacing words properly
• Frequent spelling errors
• Writing avoidance
• Writing the “minimum” required

ADHD

Students with ADHD frequently have difficulty with writing since it requires sustained attention, planning, organization, and executive functioning skills.

Students with ADHD often:

• Lose track of their ideas when writing
• Speed through assignments to finish them quickly
• Struggle to organize their ideas effectively
• Neglect to self-check their writing
• Create writing pieces that don’t reflect their verbal ideas

Language Processing Difficulties

Some students can articulate their ideas well when speaking but struggle to express their thoughts effectively when writing.

These students may:

• Have difficulty expanding their ideas
• Use sentences that are repetitive
• Write incomplete paragraphs or essays
• Struggle with transitions between thoughts

Working Memory Weaknesses

Working memory involves holding information in one’s mind while completing a task, and it plays a large role in writing effectively. When writing, students need to remember:

• The topic they are writing about
• Supporting details they want to include
• Correct grammar rules
• Spelling rules
• Correct sentence structure

Having a poor working memory can make writing laborious and mentally tiring.

Learn more about executive functioning skills in children, including how they affect writing, organization, planning, and school performance at What Are Executive Functioning Skills? A Simple Guide for Parents – EBL Coaching.

Perfectionism

Some students who are bright dislike writing because they want every sentence and word to be “perfect.”

These students might:

• Spend an excessive amount of time choosing words
• Erase words and sentences frequently
• Become easily distracted
• Turn in incomplete assignments
• Avoid writing altogether

Students with perfectionism may benefit from learning that writing is a process that includes many steps, including brainstorming, writing, and editing.

Read about how to choose the best private tutor in NYC at How to Find the Best Private Tutor in NYC for Your Child – EBL Coaching.

Signs Your Child May Need Writing Support

Your child may benefit from specialized writing tutoring if they:

• Avoid writing assignments
• Become easily frustrated with writing tasks
• Write “the minimum” amount they can
• Have messy or disorganized writing
• Have trouble organizing their ideas
• Create work that doesn’t match their verbal skills
• Need a lot of support starting and completing writing assignments

The earlier your child starts working with the right writing tutor, the faster they can gain confidence, improve their writing, and close skill gaps before they widen.

How Specialized Writing Instruction Can Help

If your child finds writing challenging, there’s encouraging news: writing is a skill that can be taught and improved. With research-based writing tutoring, your child can learn how to:

• Brainstorm ideas
• Organize paragraphs and essays
• Develop well-structured supporting details
• Use transitions effectively
• Integrate more sophisticated vocabulary
• Self-check their work
• Write paragraphs and essays with stronger confidence

With individualized instruction and guided practice, your child can become a more organized, confident, and proficient writer.

Writing Tutoring in NYC for Students with ADHD, Dysgraphia, and Executive Functioning Challenges

If your child is struggling with writing, one-on-one tutoring can make a significant difference. At EBL Coaching, we specialize in providing one-on-one writing tutoring in NYC that is individualized to each student’s areas of needs. If your child has ADHD, dysgraphia, executive functioning challenges, a specific learning disability, or just needs extra writing support, we can help! We create personalized instructional plans that can help your child become a stronger, more effective writer.

At EBL Coaching, we teach students how to:

• Brainstorm their ideas before writing
• Write clear, well-structured sentences
• Create effective paragraphs
• Write organized essays
• Expand their ideas
• Improve their grammar, punctuation, and spelling skills
• Self-check and revise their work
• Build self-confidence through improved writing

We help elementary, middle school, high school, and college students develop stronger skills, customizing the instruction to each student’s needs and overall learning profile. The tutoring sessions are highly individualized and use research-based, multi-sensory techniques, helping students make meaningful progress.
Whether your child needs help with school-related writing assignments, standardized test essays, or foundational writing skills, our evidence-based writing instruction can help your child thrive.

Families throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, Westchester County, Long Island, and northern New Jersey choose EBL Coaching for individualized writing tutoring. We also provide online writing tutoring for students across the country.

How EBL Coaching Helps Students Become Stronger Writers

At EBL Coaching, we know that writing difficulties are usually not a reflection of poor intelligence. Many of the students we work with are very bright but need explicit tutoring to develop the skills needed for effective writing.

Our individualized writing tutoring programs are customized to each student’s strengths and areas of weakness. We help students improve:

• Sentence structure
• Paragraph writing
• Essay writing
• Writing organization
• Spelling
• Grammar
• Vocabulary
• Self-checking and revision
• Executive functioning skills

If your child has dysgraphia, ADHD, executive functioning challenges, or just needs additional writing support, our research-based instruction can help your child become a more proficient writer.

Help Your Child Become a More Confident Writer

If your child has strong ideas but struggles to express them on paper, they may benefit from individualized writing instruction.  Writing involves multiple skills that can be developed with the right individualized instruction.

At EBL Coaching, our specialized research-based writing tutoring in NYC helps students improve their planning, organization, grammar, and overall writing skills. With one-on-one support, students can learn to communicate their ideas effectively, develop stronger writing skills, and thrive in school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my child so smart but struggles with writing?
Writing requires many different skills beyond just intelligence, such as organization, planning, working memory, focus, handwriting, and executive functioning skills. A child may be very bright and excel at skills like reasoning and problem solving but still struggles with written expression.

Do kids with ADHD often struggle with writing?
Yes. ADHD can make it challenging for students to organize their ideas, stay focused, plan out their assignments, and self-check their work effectively. Many students with ADHD benefit from individualized writing catered to their areas of weakness.

Can writing struggles be a sign of dysgraphia?
Writing difficulties can be a sign of dysgraphia, but these struggles don’t necessarily mean your child has dysgraphia. While dysgraphia is one possible cause of writing challenges, these difficulties can also result from executive functioning struggles, language processing difficulties, ADHD, or ineffective writing instruction. Your child will need a comprehensive evaluation to determine if they have dysgraphia.

Can writing skills improve with tutoring?
Yes, absolutely. With individualized, evidence-based tutoring, many students develop stronger organization, grammar, sentence structure, executive functioning, and overall writing skills.  Explicit instruction can significantly improve their writing skills and overall confidence in their abilities.

Does EBL Coaching provide writing tutoring in NYC?
Yes! EBL Coaching specializes in providing individualized writing tutoring in NYC for elementary, middle school, high school, and college students. We offer personalized instruction in writing skills, including sentence structure, paragraph development, essay writing, grammar, spelling, and organization. We work with students who have ADHD, dysgraphia, executive functioning challenges, learning disabilities, and students who just need specialized writing instruction.

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, has helped thousands of students improve their writing skills through specialized writing instruction for over twenty years. She is the author of the Strategies do Study Success student workbook series, the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook program, and the Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math student workbook series. She speaks nationally at educational conferences and frequently appears on podcasts as an educational expert. She has also been featured in publications including Newsweek, Autism Advocate Parenting Magazine, Epoch Times, and Macaroni Kids.

The post Why Smart Kids Struggle with Writing and How Writing Tutoring Helps appeared first on EBL Coaching.

At EBL Coaching, we specialize in providing individualized one-on-one tutoring to Arizona students using ESA funds. We use research-based, multi-sensory strategies to help neurodiverse students in grades prek-12 develop their reading, spelling, writing, math, and executive functioning skills.

What Is Arizona’s ESA Program?

Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program offers eligible students state education funding that can be used for specific educational expenses that are outside of traditional public school settings. Families often use these funds for:

• One-on-one tutoring
• Private school tuition
• Homeschool curriculum
• Online learning programs
• Academic materials

In Arizona, nearly all K-12 students in the state are eligible to apply for this funding. Families can use ESA funds to create an individualized education plan that is most suitable for their child’s needs.

Read about how Arizona families can use ESA funds for tutoring at https://eblcoaching.com/how-to-use-your-childs-arizona-empowerment-scholarship-account-funds-for-tutoring/

Can ESA Funds Be Used for Tutoring?

Yes! Tutoring is an approved ESA expense in Arizona, and a service that can truly help your child thrive. You can use ESA funds to pay for one-on-one academic tutoring and executive functioning coaching, either online or in person.

Many Arizona families look for tutoring when their child struggles with:

• Decoding words
• Reading fluency
• Reading comprehension
• Spelling
• Writing
• Math computation
• Math word problem solving
• Executive functioning
• Study & organizational skills

Individualized tutoring can provide your child with customized instruction that they need to build their academic skills and feel confident in their abilities.

Learn more about Arizona ESA-approved virtual tutoring services at https://eblcoaching.com/virtual-tutoring-arizona-esa/

Why Arizona Families Use ESA Funds for Specialized Tutoring

All students learn differently and have their own unique needs. Some students excel in a traditional classroom, while others need more individualized instruction tailored to their academic levels and overall profile.

At EBL Coaching, we provide one-on-one tutoring to neurodiverse students in grades prek-12 using evidence-based, multi-sensory techniques. Our tutoring program is highly individualized and designed to address each student’s specific areas of need.

We specialize in helping students with:

• Dyslexia
• ADHD
• Specific learning disabilities
• Autism
• Executive functioning challenges
• Reading and writing delays
• Math challenges

For our individualized tutoring program, we use structured, evidence-based teaching methods to help students improve their core academic skills.

Read about finding qualified tutors for students with learning disabilities at Special Education Tutoring Near Me: How to Find the Right Tutor – EBL Coaching.

Orton Gillingham Tutoring for Students with Reading Challenges

The Orton Gillingham method is considered the ideal approach for helping students with dyslexia and reading challenges develop their reading and spelling skills.

Orton Gillingham tutoring in Arizona uses a systematic multi-sensory approach that helps students improve skills in the following areas:

• Decoding
• Reading fluency
• Spelling
• Reading comprehension

At EBL Coaching, use the Orton Gillingham approach with students who struggle with reading and spelling, and we have seen significant growth with students who receive tutoring using this method. It has helped them become stronger, more confident readers.

Many Arizona parents are searching for ESA-approved dyslexia tutoring or Orton Gillingham tutoring for their child that is covered by ESA funds. Virtual tutoring allows students throughout Arizona, including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tucson, Mesa, Chandler, Glendale, and surrounding areas, to receive specialized instruction at home.

Lear more about Orton Gillinham tutoring at Best Tutoring for Dyslexia: Orton Gillingham, Reading, and Writing Support for Children – EBL Coaching.

Benefits of Virtual ESA Tutoring

Virtual tutoring has become a popular option that Arizona families choose because it offers both flexibility and access to specialized instructors who may not live in your local geographic area.

Some benefits of online tutoring include:

Flexible Scheduling

With online tutoring, you can schedule tutoring sessions around your other obligations, including school, extracurricular activities, sports games, and family commitments.

Access to Specialized Tutors

Your child can work with tutors who specialize in working with neurodiverse students, including dyslexia, ADHD, executive functioning, and other learning disabilities, regardless of where you live in Arizona.

Individualized Instruction

One-on-one sessions allow tutors to modify lessons based on the student’s response to the instruction and their learning needs, always providing individualized instruction.

Comfortable Learning Environment

Many students prefer online tutoring, since they feel more relaxed and focused in their own space.

Research and our experience at EBL Coaching have shown that virtual tutoring can be a highly effective modality for tutoring when sessions are individualized, multi-sensory, and engaging.

What Types of Tutoring Are Covered by Arizona ESA Funds?

Arizona ESA funds can be used for tutoring in a wide variety of skills, including:

• Reading remediation
• Writing instruction
• Spelling development
• Math tutoring
• Study skills
• Executive functioning coaching
• Test preparation
• Organization & time management

One-on-one tutoring sessions that are customized to each student’s individual needs and academic profile are ideal for struggling learners.

How the Tutoring Process Works at EBL Coaching

The tutoring we provide is fully individualized to the needs of each student. We begin with a discussion about your child’s strengths, weaknesses, and areas that need development, and then typically follow the process below:

1. Initial Assessment

Before we begin the tutoring, we start with an initial assessment to evaluate your child’s current academic levels and areas of need.

2. Individualized Learning Plan

Once the assessment is complete, a customized tutoring plan is created using research-based, multi-sensory techniques.

3. One-on-One Tutoring

Students work one-one-one with a highly qualified tutor who specializes in their areas of need, using the research-based methods most suitable for them.

4. Ongoing Parent Communication

At EBL Coaching, we believe parents should stay in the loop on how their child is progressing. Regular communication is provided about your child’s improvement throughout the process.

Who Can Benefit from ESA Tutoring?

ESA-funded tutoring can help various types of learners, including students who:

• Are struggling academically
• Have a diagnosed learning disability
• Have ADHD or executive functioning challenges
• Need help with reading, writing, or math
• Are homeschooled
• Attend private school
• Need extra support outside of school

One-on-one tutoring allows the instruction to be truly customized to the student’s specific needs.

How to Get Started with Arizona ESA Tutoring

If you are interested in pursuing ESA tutoring for your child, you can start the process as follows:

1. Apply for Arizona ESA funding by visiting https://esaportal.azed.gov/Account.
2. Contact EBL Coaching to discuss your child’s needs and how we can help them with one-on-one tutoring.
3. Your child starts receiving individualized tutoring sessions tailored to their specific needs.

We are happy to speak to you about how EBL Coaching’s research-based tutoring services for neurodiverse students can help your child.

Why Families Choose EBL Coaching

EBL Coaching has extensive experience helping neurodiverse students with various learning challenges develop their academic skills through evidence-based, multi-sensory instruction.

Parents often choose EBL Coaching because we offer:

• One-on-one tutoring
• Research-based, multi-sensory instruction
• Orton Gillingham tutoring
• Executive functioning coaching
• Specialized support for learning disabilities and ADHD
• Virtual tutoring
• Customized tutoring plans
• Highly experienced tutors

We are committed to helping all children become more confident, successful students.

Learn More About ESA Tutoring

If you are looking for the right specialized one-on-one tutoring covered by Arizona ESA funds, EBL Coaching can help.
Contact us to learn more about our tutoring for reading, writing, math, as executive functioning skills, as well as our Orton Gillingham instruction that we provide to students throughout Arizona.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona ESA Tutoring

Can Arizona ESA funds be used for tutoring?
Yes! With Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program, you can use approved ESA funds for one-on-one tutoring. Many families choose to use their ESA funds for reading tutoring, math tutoring, writing tutoring, executive functioning coaching, Orton Gillingham instruction, and other academic support.

Is online tutoring covered by Arizona ESA funds?
Yes. In many cases, you can use your ESA funds for virtual tutoring services, if the tutoring provider is approved. Online tutoring can give your child access to specialized instructors who may not live in your local geographic area.

What types of tutoring can ESA funds cover?
You can use your child’s Arizona ESA funds for a variety of tutoring services, including:

• Reading tutoring
• Writing instruction
• Math tutoring
• Executive functioning coaching
• Dyslexia intervention
• Orton Gillingham tutoring
• Study skills & organizational skills development

Make sure you review the current ESA guidelines to confirm eligibility requirements before your child starts to receive tutoring services.

Can students with dyslexia use ESA funds for tutoring?
Yes! Dyslexia tutoring is a great way to use your child’s ESA funds, since the right reading and writing remediation can help them tremendously.  Structured literacy approaches such as Orton Gillingham tutoring can help your child improve their decoding, reading fluency, spelling, and reading comprehension skills.

Can students with ADHD benefit from ESA-funded tutoring?
Yes, absolutely. Students with ADHD can benefit from one-one-one tutoring, executive functioning coaching, organizational skills development, study skills support, and academic instruction individualized to their specific needs.

Does my child need a diagnosis to receive ESA-funded tutoring?
Your child does not necessarily need a diagnosis to receive ESA-funded tutoring. Arizona’s ESA program is available to a wide range of students, but eligibility requirements can change, so make sure you review the current ESA guidelines to find out if your child qualifies.

What are the benefits of one-on-one tutoring?
There are many benefits of one-on-one tutoring! It allows the instruction to be truly customized to the specific needs of each student. Additionally, tutors can adjust the methodologies, pacing, and levels of materials used in lessons when working one-on-one with a student.

How often should my child receive tutoring?
The frequency of tutoring varies based on the individual needs of each student. Some students may only need one session per week, while those with significant academic challenges may benefit from more frequent weekly tutoring sessions. An initial evaluation can help determine the best tutoring frequency for your child.

Can homeschooled students use ESA funds for tutoring?
Yes! Many families who homeschool their children use Arizona ESA funds to supplement their child’s homeschool education with individualized tutoring, executive functioning coaching, or specialized research-based instruction in reading, writing, and math, including Orton Gillingham tutoring.

How do I get started with Arizona ESA tutoring?
To get started with Arizona ESA tutoring, begin by applying for Arizona ESA funding if you haven’t done so already. After you are approved, you can look for tutoring options that best meet your child’s academic needs. EBL Coaching can help your child with one-on-one research-based, multi-sensory tutoring services, including Orton Gillingham tutoring and executive functioning coaching, that are funded through Arizona’s ESA program.

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, has helped thousands of students with specialized learning needs build their academic skills over the past twenty years. She is the author of the Strategies do Study Success student workbook series, the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook program, and the Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math student workbook series. She speaks nationally at educational conferences and frequently appears on podcasts as an educational expert. She has also been featured in publications including Newsweek, Autism Advocate Parenting Magazine, Epoch Times, and Macaroni Kids.

The post Arizona ESA Tutoring for Students with Dyslexia, ADHD, and Learning Disabilities appeared first on EBL Coaching.

What does “executive functioning” mean? Why is it so important for school success?

Executive functioning is more than just a single skill. It’s a set of skills that involves planning, organizing, focusing, and managing tasks effectively.
This article will explain executive functioning to you in simple terms and will help you understand when specialized coaching may help your child.

What is executive functioning in children?

Executive functioning is essentially the brain’s management system. It includes skills such as:

• Task initiation
• Staying organized
• Planning assignments
• Managing time
• Following multi-step directions
• Remembering multi-step instructions
• Finishing assignments

When executive functioning works well, students can typically stay on top of their assignments and overall workload, and school usually feels manageable. When students have weak executive functioning skills, however, school can feel overwhelming.

Explore ADHD study skills and executive functioning strategies for kids to help your child stay organized and focused at Executive Functioning Coaching | Build Organization, Time Management & Study Skills | EBL Coaching.

Main executive functioning skills

What are the primary executive functioning skills?

Time management skills

Time management is a key skill for success in school and in life. It involves having a strong grasp of how long tasks take and being able to plan accordingly.

Time management challenges may look like:

• Always rushing
• Constantly running late
• Underestimating homework time
• Turning in assignments late
• Struggling to start assignments at an appropriate time

Organizational skills

Organization can affect all aspects of school. It involves keeping track of materials and assignments.

Organizational challenges may look like:

• Losing homework assignments
• Having a messy backpack or locker
• Forgetting due dates
• Leaving assignments at home

Working memory

Working memory is an integral part of many different skills at school, including reading comprehension, writing, and math. It involves holding information in one’s mind long enough to use and apply it.

Working memory challenges might include:

• Forgetting instructions, especially when there are multiple steps
• Needing repeated reminders
• Losing track mid-task
• Struggling to complete math word problems
• Challenges with remembering information from a passage and then answering questions about it

Task initiation

Most aspects of school and life involve initiating tasks efficiently. Students who struggle with task initiation typically have trouble getting started without delays.

• Task initiation challenges might look like:
• Procrastinating homework
• Avoiding starting projects
• Staring at a page but not starting a writing assignment
• Needing constant prompting and reminders

Self-monitoring

Self-monitoring is a key component of executive functioning. It involves skills such as checking work and noticing errors (and then correcting them).

Self-monitoring challenges might include:

• Making careless mistakes
• Not checking for mistakes after completing an assignment
• Incomplete assignments
• Not reviewing work before turning it in

Emotional regulation

Emotional regulation involves effectively managing frustration and stress. Emotional regulation challenges might include:

• Homework meltdowns
• Avoiding challenging tasks and assignments
• Becoming easily frustrated

Why executive functioning is important 

When parents don’t know what executive functioning is, they might assume that these challenges are related to:

• Laziness
• Poor effort
• Lack of motivation
• Not trying hard

However, executive functioning helps translate effort into results in a structured, efficient manner.

Learn more about executive functioning coaching for kids and how it builds organization, time management, and study skills at Summer Study Skills for Kids With ADHD | EBL Coaching.

Students with executive functioning challenges are often:

• Intelligent
• Articulate
• Creative
• Highly capable

Yet despite these strengths, they can still struggle in school if their executive functioning skills are weak.

Common signs of executive functioning challenges

Many students struggle with their executive functioning skills, and these challenges often become more pronounced as students move through upper elementary school into middle school and beyond. When students struggle with executive functioning, you might notice your child:

• Takes much longer than expected to complete homework
• Needs constant reminders to start tasks
• Loses their belongings
• Turns in incomplete assignments
• Has trouble finishing tasks
• Is disorganized
• Has emotional reactions related to schoolwork

These executive functioning challenges are particularly common in students with ADHD and learning differences.

Can executive functioning be improved?

Yes! Executive functioning skills can absolutely be improved with the right tools and strategies.

Students can build stronger executive functioning skills when they receive:

• Organized lists
• Structured routines
• Step-by-step instructions
• Organizational systems
• Time management strategies
• Tools for planning and prioritizing

Students must be taught directly with concrete tools and strategies to develop their executive functioning skills effectively.

How executive functioning coaching helps

Executive functioning coaching teaches students how to manage their schedule and assignments – not just homework help or general academic skills building.

Executive functioning coaching might include:

• Breaking down large tasks into smaller steps
• Setting up organizational systems
• Teaching time management strategies
• Improving task initiation
• Reducing anxiety related to schoolwork

How EBL Coaching helps students with executive functioning coaching in NYC and New Jersey

At EBL Coaching, we specialize in helping students in New York City and New Jersey who struggle with executive functioning challenges, ADHD, learning disabilities, and academic skills.

Unlike traditional tutoring that focuses only on subject content, we teach students research-based, multi-sensory strategies to develop stronger executive functioning and academic skills.

We help students develop:

• Effective organization systems
• Step-by-step tools for completing assignments
• Strong time management and study habits
• Tools for starting and finishing schoolwork
• Strategies for prioritization
• Tools for building working memory

Discover effective ADHD and executive functioning strategies for kids to improve focus, organization, and follow-through at Summer Strategies for ADHD: Build Executive Function Skills | EBL Coaching.

Many families seek tutoring from EBL Coaching when they notice that their child:

• Is bright but underperforming in school
• Is easily overwhelmed by multi-step assignments
• Needs constant reminders to start and complete their work
• Struggles to stay organized across subjects
• Becomes easily frustrated with schoolwork
• Has poor self-esteem

Our coaching teaches students strategies for building their executive functioning skills and learning how to apply those strategies to their relevant schoolwork.

When to consider support

Many parents may be unsure as to when their child needs support. It might be time to seek executive functioning coaching if your child:

• Struggles to complete their homework independently
• Regularly loses assignments
• Has trouble managing their time
• Struggles to prioritize tasks
• Becomes easily overwhelmed by multi-step tasks
• Is struggling in school and performing below their potential

Seeking executive functioning support early can significantly improve your child’s academic performance and self-confidence.

Closing thoughts

Executive functioning skills are key components of academic success.

When these skills are weak, students can struggle immensely in school, and they likely need systematic instruction on how to learn, organize, and manage their homework effectively.

With the right coaching, students can move from feeling overwhelmed and disorganized to feeling confident and self-sufficient.

FAQs about Executive Functioning Coaching 

What is executive functioning in basic terms?
Executive functioning involves the brain’s ability to manage tasks such as planning, organizing, time management, and initiating tasks.

Why does my child struggle with executive functioning? 
Executive functioning weaknesses are often associated with ADHD, learning disabilities, developmental delays, or underdeveloped skills. These challenges are not caused by laziness or a lack of effort.

Can executive functioning skills be improved?
Yes! Executive functioning skills can absolutely be improved. These skills can be strengthened through structured tutoring, concrete strategies, and repeated practice.

How do I know if my child has executive functioning issues?
Common signs of executive functioning challenges include disorganization, forgetting schoolwork, trouble starting tasks, weak time management, and emotional breakdowns related to schoolwork.

Does EBL Coaching offer executive functioning coaching in NYC and New Jersey?
Yes! EBL Coaching provides executive functioning coaching to students throughout New York City and New Jersey. We help students build their executive functioning and academic skills through structured, research-based support.

Dr. Emily Levy, the founder and director of EBL Coaching, holds her Doctorate Degree in Education and her Master’s Degree in Special Education. She has helped thousands of students with executive functioning challenges for over twenty years. She is also the author of the Strategies for Study Success student workbook series, the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook program, and the Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math program, used by students and schools nationwide.

The post What Are Executive Functioning Skills? A Simple Guide for Parents appeared first on EBL Coaching.

How can ADHD tutoring help with executive functioning?

Students with ADHD often struggle with executive functioning skills such as time management, organization, planning, and task initiation. They might forget to turn in their homework or turn it in late, lose their books and belongings, and have trouble staying organized and on task. Individualized, one-on-one ADHD tutoring can help your child build these key skills, which are essential for success in school.

Time management strategies taught in ADHD tutoring

Specific, concrete time management strategies can be taught during ADHD tutoring sessions. For example, your child may develop stronger time management skills and learn to procrastinate less. With the Estimated Time versus Actual Time strategy, students learn to do the following:

• Estimate how long they think a task might take to complete and write down the ET, or estimated time.
• Note how long the task took to complete and write the AT, or actual time.
• Compare the difference between these times.

When students start using this strategy, especially those with poor time management skills, there is often a big gap between the estimated time and actual time. However, the more students use this strategy through ADHD tutoring sessions, the more these times will start to merge and the better their time management skills will become.

Note taking strategies taught in ADHD tutoring

Another skill your child may develop in ADHD tutoring sessions is stronger note taking strategies. There are several different note taking strategies your child might learn in ADHD tutoring sessions, such as outlining, webbing, or column-style note taking. With column-style note taking, your child will learn the following steps:

• Draw a vertical line through the middle of their page (or do so using a computer).
• Write the title of the lesson at the top of the page and label the left column “main ideas” and the right column “notes”.
• When your child is in class listening to a lecture, they should only take notes on the right side of the page, in the notes column. When they come home from school, they should categorize their notes into various main ideas and write the main idea for that section of notes in the left column.

This note taking technique helps ensure that your child captured the information from the lecture, took effective notes, and understood the material that was covered. These diagrams also serve as great study guides for upcoming tests.

How ADHD tutoring can help with task initiation and prioritization

Many students with ADHD struggle with task initiation and prioritization. They may have several homework assignments to complete and tests to study for, but they don’t know where to start. They might jump in and begin working on an assignment that is less important or not due for several weeks and neglect more urgent assignments that may be due the next day or shortly thereafter. ADHD tutoring can help your child learn to prioritize tasks and designate which ones they should complete first and subsequently thereafter, based on the complexity of the assignment and its due date. As students progress through school, the volume of assignments and tests will increase so learning these strategies now through ADHD tutoring can help them tremendously.

Strategies taught during ADHD tutoring can help your child complete their homework independently and efficiently, improve their time management skills, reduce procrastination, increase their note taking and study skills, and help them feel confident and successful in school.

With effective ADHD tutoring, your child can learn how to manage their time, stay organized, prioritize their tasks, and stay focused for longer periods of time. If you are looking for evidence-based, one-on-one ADHD tutoring, EBL Coaching can help your child! We offer individualized executive functioning tutoring in person and virtually to help your child thrive in school.

Read more about whether your child has ADHD at Wondering if Your Child Has ADHD? – EBL Coaching

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an ADHD tutor teach?

An ADHD tutor will typically teach strategies for executive functioning skills, including planning, time management, organization, prioritization, test taking, note taking, organization, and study skills.

Is ADHD tutoring different from regular tutoring?

Yes! Specialized ADHD tutoring is different than general tutoring. With ADHD tutoring, your child should be taught specific research-based techniques for building their executive functioning skills. The ADHD tutor should teach them strategies and then show them how to apply these strategies to their relevant schoolwork.

Does my child need a formal ADHD diagnosis to benefit from tutoring?

No! If you notice your child struggling with skills like planning, organization, time management, task initiation, or focusing for long stretches of time, they can benefit from ADHD tutoring.

Learn more about ADHD tutoring programs at ADHD Tutoring Programs – EBL Coaching
Read more about ADHD at www.aacap.org.

The post ADHD Tutoring Programs Near Me: How to Help Your ADHD Child Build Executive Functioning Skills appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Create a Schedule

Individuals who struggle with executive functioning skills often fail to create a well-organized schedule. They might jump from one task to another with little or no planning. To address this challenge, you can map out steps for your child for each part of his or her day when at home. For example, your child might have five steps to complete in the morning before leaving for school: wake up; get dressed; have breakfast; brush teeth; and check backpack to make sure it has all necessary items for the day. You may want a checklist for the backpack, too.

Download Game (2-page .pdf)

The post Helping Autistic Students Build Stronger Executive Functioning Skills appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Focusing

Individuals with ADHD tend to be distracted easily. As kids, they may start a homework assignment but quickly lose focus when they hear the doorbell ringing, their phone buzzing, a newscaster speaking on the television, or people talking in another room. They may continuously start and stop an assignment, taking what seems like forever to complete it. As adults, they may have similar trouble staying focused on tasks; writing emails, creating a weekly schedule, or completing a project may take hours to complete with all of the surrounding distractions.

Those with autism tend to have trouble focusing on a task they don’t like. For instance, they may not want to read a particular book, complete a math sheet on multiplication, or finish a puzzle. If that’s the case, they may “act out” and demonstrate poor behaviors out of sheer frustration. Read more at Wondering if Your Child Has ADHD? – EBL Coaching.

Communication

Children and adults with ADHD may talk incessantly, regardless of whether others are truly listening or seem interested. They may interrupt their peers when speaking, and may not tell a story in an organized, sequential fashion. They may also overstep boundaries, sharing inappropriate information with others.

Those with autism often have trouble expressing their thoughts and feelings using appropriate words. They may speak out of context, often bringing up a topic (like the rainy weather outside) during an inappropriate time, like when the person they are with is talking about their favorite subject in school or what they plan to have for dinner that night. Those with autism tend to have poor social awareness and weak language skills, and may struggle with appropriate eye contact when speaking.

Routines

Individuals with ADHD tend to do well with routines but often have difficulty sticking with the routine and following through with it on a regular basis. For instance, they might know they should exercise every day for an hour or spend 30 minutes each day organizing their belongings, but easily become distracted when trying to complete the task.

Those with autism prefer doing the same routines over and over. For example, they may have chocolate chip pancakes for breakfast with a specific amount of butter every day, complete the same puzzle over and over, or prefer having the same book read to them time and again. They thrive on routine and don’t like change; any altering of these routines may cause them to become extremely upset. Learn more about this at Time Management Tips For Kids With ADHD – EBL Coaching.

Similarities

ADHD and autism do share some similarities, including impulsivity, executive functioning challenges, focusing difficulties, learning challenges, and social troubles. Some individuals have only ADHD or autism, while others have both. The only way to know what your child may have is to undergo a complete evaluation, which typically includes observations, questionnaires, and formal evaluative tools.

The earlier you can identify your child’s diagnosis, the sooner you can seek treatment, and the more likely your child will be successful in school and in life. Remember that your child likely has many gifts regardless of their diagnosis; learning more about who they are can only help you to best help them.

Other Blogs about Autism:

Helping Autistic Students Build Stronger Executive Functioning Skills

Other Blogs About ADHD:

ADHD Tutoring

The post Differentiating Between ADHD and Autism in Children appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Make sure your child receives appropriate support. If your child is struggling in school, proactively ask the teacher for feedback, observations or an evaluation, if needed. Thereafter, make sure your child receives the appropriate support — whether it is specialized tutoring, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and so on.

School is really not easy these days. Many students have been out of school for a long time because of the pandemic, and the continued disruptions and anxieties are still breaking the flow of normal learning. What can parents do to help their children thrive and excel in school, particularly during these challenging and anxiety-provoking times?

To address this, we started a new series called “5 Things Parents Can Do To Help Their Children Thrive and Excel In School.” In this interview series, we are talking to teachers, principals, education experts, and successful parents to learn from their insights and experience.

As a part of this interview series, I had the pleasure to interview Dr. Emily Levy.

Dr. Emily Levy is the founder and director of EBL Coaching, a specialized tutoring program that offers individualized one-on-one home, virtual, and on-site instruction using research-based, multi-sensory techniques. She is also the author of Strategies for Study Success, a 17-part student workbook series that teaches students strategies for test taking, note taking, reading comprehension, writing, summarizing, and executive functioning, along with the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook series, which helps students develop their fundamental decoding and spelling skills. Additionally, she is the author of Flags and Stars Multi-Sensory Math, a multi-sensory math program that helps students develop a stronger understanding of core math concepts, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions. These workbooks are currently used at schools nationwide.

Dr. Levy graduated from Brown University and received her Master’s Degree in Special Education from Nova University in Florida. She also completed her Doctorate Degree in Education from Nova University. She performed a five-year research study developing an alternative strategy for teaching reading comprehension and won a fifth place Westinghouse Science and Talent Award for this research. She has spoken at national and international conferences on research-based teaching methods.

Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dive in, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share with us a bit about your “backstory”?

Sure! I actually grew up in the field of special education. My mother was the founder of a school for students with learning disabilities in Florida, so I like to think that being in the field of education is “in my blood.” Formally, though, I received my undergraduate degree from Brown University. I then obtained my Master’s Degree in Special Education, as well as my Doctorate Degree in Education. I started EBL Coaching nineteen years ago, which is a one-on-one tutoring program for special education students. We use research-based, multi-sensory techniques catered to the needs of each student. I am also the author of Strategies for Study Success, a seventeen-part student workbook series that teaches students strategies for reading comprehension, writing, test taking, note taking and executive functioning skills. Additionally, I am the author of the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham and Multi-Sensory Math Student Workbook programs.

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?

One of my very first students was a first grade boy with ADHD and dyslexia who struggled tremendously with reading. I worked with him for many years, providing one-on-one Orton Gillingham instruction to build his reading skills. School was a real struggle for him, and he had to work much harder than most of his peers. His mother recently let me know that he is now thriving as an engineer! I could not have been more proud.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

“Success is not how high you have climbed, but how you make a positive difference in the world.”

I love this quote, as it really defines the work that I do and my life mission. While I love being a successful business woman and a great role model for my daughters, I truly feel that I have made an enormous difference in the lives of so many children with specialized learning needs. It brings me so much happiness to know that I am making a positive difference in the world.

You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?

1. Listening. I find that listening — and truly listening without distractions — is a key element of my success. Many parents pour their hearts out to me and are often crying, telling me about the struggles of their child. I listen to them with compassion and understanding. I realize how hard it can be to watch these struggles and not know how to help. I speak and share my thoughts and suggestions only after they are done, and feel they have shared enough with me to give a full picture of their child.

2. Perseverance. There have been many instances in my career when I did not succeed at my first try. When I started out as a special education tutor, I essentially went from school to school, telling them about my services and background — hoping they would refer clients to me. Some welcomed me with open arms, but others completely shut me out. Some families (in the beginning of my career) would choose to find another tutor or go in another direction for whatever reason. It was crushing at first, but with every failure, my motto was to analyze what happened, think about what went wrong, and decide what I could do differently going forward to have a better outcome. That has helped me succeed and overcome many obstacles in work and in life.

3. Decisiveness. In my work, I literally make decisions all day long. Some are small and insignificant, such as when to send a certain email or schedule a meeting. Others are deeper and involve more thought, like what instructional plan would be best for a student with Autism and ADHD who also struggles with reading comprehension and writing — or how to guide a tutor towards helping a child who exhibits newfound challenges.

Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that will help people?

Yes! I am now working on expanding my COINS student workbook series, which teaches students how to break down math word problems and move from language to arithmetic, and then back to language.

For the benefit of our readers, can you tell us a bit about why you are an authority on how to help children succeed in school?

Sure. I have been working as an expert in the field of special education for over twenty years. Through EBL Coaching, I have been able to help thousands of students build their reading, writing, math, and executive functioning skills, and improve their self-confidence along the way.

Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the main focus of our interview. Can you help articulate the main challenges that students face today that make it difficult to succeed in school?

Many children with learning challenges are not receiving the appropriate support they need in school. Some are not identified as having a challenge early enough and continue to struggle in school. Others never get evaluated, or do so far down the road once they have already missed most academic foundations. Others receive some support in school, but either it is not appropriate or not enough support. For instance, students with dyslexia really need instruction using the Orton Gillingham technique — but unfortunately, most schools are not able to provide this support.

Can you suggest a few reforms that you think schools should make to help students to thrive and excel?

Sure. More teachers should be trained in research-based techniques for reading, writing, and math. In particular, using a multi-sensory approach for students who have learning challenges is key. When students are pulled out for support, it should be specific and individualized to their needs, using the research-based, multi-sensory techniques that are most appropriate for their specific challenges.

Here is our primary question. Can you please share your “5 Things Parents Can Do To Help Their Children Thrive and Excel In School?” Please share a story or example for each.

1. Be your child’s best advocate. I hear time and again that parents noticed their child struggling with homework, but their teacher never said anything to them; it was not until the end of the school year that the teacher told them their child struggled and may be held back. It is always important to be proactive, check in with your child’s teacher to see how he or she is doing, and not sit back and wait for the teacher to reach out to you.

2. Make sure your child receives appropriate support. If your child is struggling in school, proactively ask the teacher for feedback, observations or an evaluation, if needed. Thereafter, make sure your child receives the appropriate support — whether it is specialized tutoring, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and so on.

3. Help your child build self-confidence and independence. There are some parents who like to sit next to their child when they work on their homework until every part of it is complete, and correct them along the way. Let your child take a stab at it first; then you can check it afterwards or wait to see if he or she comes to you with questions. Praise them for their effort of working independently and know that by doing so, they will not only improve their academic skills, but will also build their self-confidence and independence.

4. Seek outside support. If your child is struggling, even with the support he or she is receiving in school, seek outside support. That may mean counseling, speech therapy, occupational therapy, tutoring, and so on. Specifically with tutoring, receiving the right one-on-one research-based, multi-sensory tutoring can be life changing for a child.

5. Learn effective ways you can help your child at home. If your child has ADHD, for instance, and struggles with organizational skills, help your child set up systems for cleaning out and filing papers he or she does not need. Help create lists and daily schedules, and aid your child in gaining an accurate understanding for how long tasks can take to complete. If your child has dyslexia and receives Orton Gillingham tutoring, ask the tutor what you can do in between sessions to reinforce what is covered.

As you know, teachers play such a huge role in shaping young lives. What would you suggest needs to be done to attract top talent to the education field?

I think that if teachers were trained in cutting-edge, research-based multi-sensory techniques that truly make a difference in the lives of kids, they will be motivated to enter the field and feel like they are making a real difference in the world.

We are blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? He or she might just see this if we tag them

I have always admired Sheryl Sandburg for the incredible work she has done to motivate women, seize opportunities and to “lean in.” It would be amazing to share a meal with her :). She also grew up in North Miami Beach, Florida, which is where I am from!

How can our readers further follow your work online?

They can read more about EBL Coaching and myself at the links below.

www.eblcoaching.com

Https://www.facebook.com/EBLCoaching

Http://www.instagram.com/ebl_coaching

Thank you so much for these insights! This was so inspiring!

The post Dr. Emily Levy Of EBL Coaching On The 5 Things Parents Can Do To Help Their Children Thrive and Excel In School — An Interview With Jake Frankel appeared first on EBL Coaching.

Have you noticed your child struggling in school? Perhaps they are having a hard time learning to read, can’t grasp multi-step math problems, or are having difficulty staying focused in class. Their self-esteem is plummeting as schoolwork becomes increasingly challenging, and their struggles seem insurmountable. Your child may have special needs and, if so, the sooner you can identify these needs and address them, the better it will be for their overall confidence and academic performance. So what can you do?

For starters, if you see your child struggling, talk to their doctor ‎and teacher. Discuss milestones they may or may not have met and determine if their teacher notices the same challenges you see at home. If you feel these struggles are getting worse or think they may benefit from additional accommodations at school, you might consider having them tested. This testing can be done for free either through your state’s early intervention program (if your child is under age three) or through your child’s school district. The evaluation and specific tests administered may range, but evaluators will typically test your child’s IQ and will likely also test language, motor, behavior, and achievement skills.

Psst…Winter isn’t over, here are Perfect Snow Day Activities for Kids in NYC

IEP or 504 plan
Depending on the evaluation results and your child’s needs, your child may qualify for either an IEP or a 504 plan. An IEP details your child’s specific goals and a plan for what your school will do to help meet those goals, including specific services, like speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and academic support. A 504 plan helps provide accommodations for support within the classroom, such as additional time on tests, an aide in the classroom, preferential seating, and/or modified homework. Typically students who have a less severe disability (like anxiety, ADHD, etc.) and not a diagnosed learning disability will receive a 504. Students who need more services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, special education teacher support services, etc., would receive an IEP.

Know Your Rights
Federal law indicates that every child is entitled to a free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment possible. Three specific federal laws apply to children with special needs, including the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Ace, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These laws’ specifics can vary by state, so it’s important for you to understand the procedures and criteria specific to your state.

IDEA‎ stipulates that a child’s issues must fall into one of 13 categories to be eligible for special education services. Section 504 mandates that schools cannot discriminate again students who have disabilities and are required to provide appropriate accommodations to them. Students covered under Section 504 usually have less severe disabilities or do not fall into one of the categories stipulated under IDEA. The ADA indicates that children with special needs cannot be discriminated against and must be provided appropriate services and programs suitable to their needs. If your school district refuses to provide appropriate services to your child, you may initiate a due process hearing to challenge their decision.

Focus on Your Child’s Strengths
It is easy to go into a bit of negative space when dealing with your child’s educational support. Remember to focus on your child’s strengths; they may struggle with reading and writing but may excel with math computation. Or maybe your child is incredibly social, empathetic, and ‎kind. Perhaps they are a beautiful artist, a great storyteller, or a whiz at building Legos. Praise your child for small accomplishments, like sitting next to a friend at lunch who seemed sad, drawing a beautiful flower, or creating an elaborate Lego tower. As you help your child academically with areas where they may struggle, continue to build their self-esteem, and explain that no one is perfect. We all have strengths and weaknesses, as well as areas we need to work on improving. Your special needs child can still have dreams and aspirations that can be achieved with support and guidance.

Dr. Emily Levy is the founder of EBL Coaching, a tutoring program that specializes in one-on-one home and on-site instruction for students in grades PreK-12 in NYC, NJ, and Westchester. She is also the author of Strategies for Study Success, a study skills workbooks series emphasizing test-taking, note-taking, reading comprehension, writing, and executive functioning strategies, and the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook series.

The post Is Your Child Missing Milestones? When the Next Step is an IEP appeared first on EBL Coaching.