It's not a motivation problem. It's not laziness. It's executive functioning—the brain's management system. And it can be coached.
These aren't character flaws. They're executive functioning gaps—and they're fixable.
If you checked 3 or more, your student is likely struggling with executive functioning. The good news? These are skills that can be taught.
Take the Full AssessmentExecutive functioning is your brain's management system. It controls how you plan, focus, and get things done. When these skills are underdeveloped, even brilliant students fall behind.
Breaking big assignments into manageable steps and keeping track of materials, deadlines, and priorities.
Estimating how long tasks actually take, meeting deadlines, and allocating time across competing demands.
Holding information in mind while using it—following multi-step instructions, taking notes while listening.
Staying calm when things get hard, managing frustration during difficult assignments, and recovering from setbacks.
Adapting when plans change, seeing problems from different angles, and shifting between tasks without getting stuck.
Starting tasks without excessive procrastination—the hardest step for many students is simply beginning.
These aren't personality traits. They're skills. And like any skill, they can be taught.
A structured approach that builds real skills—not temporary fixes.
We identify which executive functioning skills need development through a comprehensive evaluation of your student's patterns, strengths, and challenges.
Weekly 1-on-1 sessions focused on practical strategies your student can use immediately. No worksheets. Real tools applied to real assignments.
As skills become habits, your student gains independence. The goal is always the same: they don't need me anymore.
I'm a Cornell graduate with two master's degrees—one in math education, one in creative writing. I've spent twenty years teaching and tutoring students from middle school through post-grad, at institutions including Princeton Review, Bespoke Education, Manhattan Country School, and Bank Street School.
But here's what actually matters: I understand how students think. I've spent two decades figuring out why smart kids underperform—and it almost always comes back to executive functioning.
I'm also an Aikido instructor. The same principles apply: discipline isn't about force. It's about finding the right technique and practicing it until it becomes natural.
I think you know your help and guidance the last few years has been invaluable. Thank you so very much for your hard work and dedication! I know he could be a challenge, but I hope in the end it was fulfilling.
Before working with Andres, my son couldn't start homework without a meltdown. Now he breaks assignments into steps on his own. The transformation has been remarkable—not just in grades, but in confidence.
Andres doesn't just help with the homework. He teaches my daughter HOW to learn. She went from failing two classes to making honor roll. We couldn't be more grateful.
Answer these 8 questions about your student. It takes less than 2 minutes.
Based on your answers, your student's executive functioning skills seem relatively strong. If you're still noticing challenges, a one-time consultation can help pinpoint the issue.
Your student shows moderate executive functioning challenges. Targeted coaching on specific skills could make a significant difference in their academic performance and stress levels.
Your student is showing clear signs of executive functioning challenges. The good news: these are exactly the skills that respond best to coaching. Let's talk about a plan.
A practical guide to understanding and supporting your student's executive functioning development. Includes actionable strategies you can start using today.
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Every plan starts with a free consultation so we can find the right fit.
Every engagement begins with a free 15-minute consultation. No commitment required.
Traditional tutoring focuses on what to learn. EF coaching focuses on how to learn. Instead of reviewing content for tomorrow's test, we build the skills—planning, time management, organization—that make your student effective across every subject. That said, I often combine both: we work on real homework and assignments while building these skills in context.
I work with students from middle school through college and beyond. Executive functioning challenges show up differently at each age, and my approach adapts accordingly. I've also worked with adults who want to improve their organizational and time management skills.
Yes. ADHD and executive functioning challenges are closely related—most students with ADHD have EF difficulties. While I'm not a therapist or diagnostician, EF coaching is one of the most effective interventions for the academic challenges that come with ADHD. I work alongside therapists and school teams when appropriate.
Most families notice behavioral changes within 3–4 weeks—things like less nagging about homework, fewer last-minute panics, and better follow-through. Deeper habit formation typically takes 2–3 months. Every student is different, and we'll track progress together throughout.
Yes, all sessions are conducted online via video call. This actually works well for EF coaching—we can work directly in your student's digital tools (Google Calendar, their school's LMS, documents) in real time. It also means flexible scheduling and no commute.
I do traditional tutoring too—English, writing, psychology, economics, test prep (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT), and college application essays. Many students benefit from a blend: subject tutoring that also builds executive functioning skills in context. We can figure out the right mix during our free consultation.
A free 15-minute consultation is all it takes to find out if EF coaching is right for your student. No pressure. No commitment. Just a conversation.