5: How to help your t(w)een build essential executive function skills

Ever feel like your teen knows what to do… but just won’t do it?
You’re not imagining it. And no—it’s not laziness or defiance. It’s executive function. Whether your t(w)een is avoiding homework, melting down over small things, or just struggling to stay on track, this episode gives you the real reason why—and how to respond without losing your cool.
Inside this episode, you’ll learn:

• What executive function really is (and why it matters for daily life)
• How to help your teen build these skills—without lectures or power struggles
• The most important place to start (hint: it’s with you)

These are the life skills that help your teen become confident, capable, and self-directed—and you can start practicing them together today.
As always, I’m here to guide you.

✨ Ashley

00:13 - What Is Executive Function & Why It Matters for Teens
01:23 - Executive Function = Being the Boss of Your Life
02:19 - Why Executive Function Starts with Emotional Regulation
03:30 - Emotional Regulation Begins with Feeling Seen, Loved & Valued
04:18 - Why Reacting to Your Teen’s Emotions Doesn’t Work
05:06 - Stop Taking Your Teen’s Behavior Personally
05:55 - How to Stay Calm During Your Teen’s Outbursts
06:25 - Executive Function Is More Than a To-Do List
07:35 - Why Overwhelm Stops Executive Function in Its Tracks
08:02 - Uncover What’s Blocking Executive Function
09:07 - Start with Curiosity, Not Criticism
10:23 - Be the Director of Your Own Mind
11:08 - Executive Function Is a Relay, Not a Race
11:57 - It’s Never Too Late to Build Executive Function Skills
13:18 - How Hidden Stress Hijacks Executive Function
14:38 - Daily Routines Start with Your Emotional Regulation
15:57 - Pain Points Reveal Where to Build Skills
16:59 - How to Talk to Your Teen About Building Executive Function
17:46 - Executive Function Is a Quality of Life Skill
18:40 - Parents Need to Build These Skills Too
19:31 - Daily Action Builds Trust, Skills, and Self-Awareness

✅ FREE Class: Confident & Connected—get your teen to listen, follow through, and strengthen your relationship! → https://www.theteenageguide.com/class
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✅ The Teenage Guide, 50% OFF for just $27—help your teen navigate these last months with success! → https://www.theteenageguide.com/guides

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