How Executive Functioning Tutoring Can Help Your Student Thrive
If your student is bright but struggles to stay organized, remember deadlines, or manage their time, you’re not alone. Many students have the skills to succeed academically but they just need help developing their executive functioning skills to get there.
At Tutors & Friends, we don’t just teach content, we teach students how to learn. And executive functioning is one of the most powerful ways to help students reach their full potential.
What Are Executive Functioning Skills?
Executive functioning refers to the set of mental skills that help students plan, focus, remember instructions, and manage multiple tasks successfully. These skills include:
Organization: Keeping track of assignments, materials, and priorities
Time Management: Breaking big tasks into smaller steps and meeting deadlines
Focus & Task Initiation: Starting work on time and staying on track
Working Memory: Holding onto information long enough to use it effectively
Self-Monitoring: Checking one’s own work and staying aware of progress
In short — these are the “thinking skills” that make school (and life) run smoothly.
How Tutoring Builds Executive Functioning Skills
While these skills can sound abstract, executive functioning tutoring makes them practical and personalized to the student’s daily routine.
Here’s what that looks like in action during a one-on-one session:
Planning for the week: Reviewing upcoming assignments, tests, and events together
Breaking down big projects: Learning how to outline steps and create realistic timelines
Building study routines: Creating daily checklists or study blocks that actually work for them
Using tools and systems: Introducing calendars, planners, or digital apps to stay organized
Practicing accountability: Helping students reflect on what went well — and what to improve next time
Over time, students become more independent, confident, and proactive; skills that carry far beyond the classroom.
Why Executive Functioning Tutoring Works
Unlike traditional academic tutoring that focuses on one subject, executive functioning support helps students build habits they can apply to every class. It’s especially beneficial for:
Students transitioning to high school or college
Students with ADHD or learning differences
Students who feel overwhelmed or anxious about schoolwork
Students who are capable but underperforming due to organization or time management issues
Once students learn how to manage their time and workload effectively, grades often improve naturally along with their confidence.
A Note from Our Team
At Tutors & Friends, we believe that success isn’t just about mastering content, it’s about mastering the process of learning. Executive functioning tutoring gives students the tools to take control of their education and feel proud of their progress.
If your student could use help with organization, planning, or focus, we’d love to pair them with a tutor who specializes in executive functioning support.
Schedule a session
Have questions? Email us at support@tutorsandfriends.com
