Forgotten homework, a messy backpack and a project started the night before it is due can leave families frustrated. Often the issue is not effort. It is executive function, the set of mental skills that help us plan, start tasks, stay focused and manage time. Executive function training aims to build those skills step by step.

This guide is general information for parents. A licensed clinician can tell you whether your child would benefit after speaking with your family.

What executive function includes

Executive function covers several skills that work together: planning, organizing materials, remembering instructions, shifting between tasks, controlling impulses and managing emotions. These skills keep developing into the early twenties, so it is normal for children and teens to still be building them.

Some young people, including many who have ADHD or anxiety, find these skills harder. That does not mean they are lazy or careless.

Signs your child may need support

Look for patterns, not one bad week. Examples include trouble starting homework, losing items often, underestimating how long tasks take, melting down when plans change, or needing many reminders for routine steps.

If a pattern lasts for months and affects school or home life, it is reasonable to ask a professional for guidance.

What training looks like online

Sessions are practical. A clinician might help a student break a large assignment into smaller steps, set up a weekly planner, create a homework routine or practice calming skills before a test. Because sessions happen from home, the child can work with their real materials, such as their own planner and school portal.

Progress is tracked with clear goals, such as starting homework within ten minutes of sitting down. Mount Behavioral Health offers telehealth for ages 9 to 21, with a Brooklyn office as its only physical location.

How parents can reinforce the skills

Keep tools simple. A wall calendar, a single homework folder and a consistent spot for backpacks do more than complicated systems. Praise the use of a strategy, not only the outcome.

Build short routines around after school hours, when many families are most stretched. Agree on a start time for homework and a short break plan so your child knows what to expect.

Scheduling and coverage

The practice offers after school and evening appointments, and Medicaid is accepted along with many major insurance plans. Check your own benefits before booking.

If your child ever talks about harming themselves, call or text 988, or call 911 in an emergency.

Questions parents often ask

Is executive function training the same as tutoring?

No. Tutoring focuses on a subject. Training focuses on skills such as planning, organizing and focus that help across subjects.

Does it only help children with ADHD?

No. Many students with anxiety, learning differences or no diagnosis also benefit from stronger planning habits.

How do online sessions handle homework?

The student can share their real planner or assignment during the session so strategies are practiced on actual tasks.

Can parents see progress?

Yes. Goals are specific, so families can track changes such as how often homework starts on time.

Choosing the right provider

When looking for support, ask what skills will be taught, how progress will be measured and how parents will be kept informed. A clear plan with specific goals tends to work better than general advice. It is also worth asking how the clinician coordinates with school staff when families want that.

Preparing for the first appointment

Before the first visit, collect recent report cards, teacher comments and any school plans such as an IEP or 504. These give the clinician a clear picture of where your child struggles and where they do well.

Ask your child what feels hardest, such as starting work, remembering materials or finishing on time. Their own words are valuable. Write down a few examples from the past month so the clinician can see patterns.

Set up the space for the session. Keep the planner, school portal login and a notebook ready so the clinician can work with real tasks. Reduce noise and keep other screens off.

After each session, help your child apply one small strategy. Keep it simple, such as setting a phone timer for homework blocks. Repeating one habit works better than adding many at once.

Every young person moves at a different pace, and setbacks are a normal part of any plan. What matters most is steady support at home, honest communication with the care team and patience with the process. Families who stay involved, ask questions and celebrate small wins tend to feel more confident about the road ahead. If something is not working, say so early so the plan can be adjusted. Good care is a partnership between the young person, the family and the clinician, and it improves when everyone is heard.

Where to learn more

You can learn about the full range of youth services at Mount Behavioral Health, including how families take part in the treatment plan.