Solving Executive Function Challenges

How can you help kids with autism be flexible, get organised, and work toward goals-not just in school but in everyday life? It's all about executive function, and this quick problem-solving guide helps you explicitly teach these critical skills to high-functioning children with autism (Grades K-8). Used on its own or in tandem with the popular 'Unstuck and On Target!' classroom curriculum, this practical guide shows how to embed executive function instruction in dozens of everyday scenarios, from morning routines to getting homework done. Designed for therapists, teachers, and parents, these highly effective techniques give children the skills they need to navigate each day, reach their goals, and succeed inside and outside the classroom.

THIS BOOK HELPS YOU:

Understand executive function- why it's important and why it's challenging for children with autism
Teach three skills critical to success: flexibility, goal setting, and organisation
Use consistent scripts and key words to help children process your message
Model desired behaviours -and fade your guidance as children generalize skills
Provide simple, effective visual cues that keep kids unstuck and on target
Keep it fun and positive, with tips on creative, playful ways to teach executive function skills

PRACTICAL MATERIALS:
Dozens of specific, easy-to-do examples; ""Goal, Plan, Do, Check"" scripts and worksheets that break down tasks into small, achievable chunks; key words and phrases that help kids stay on target; reproducible visual aids; sample IEP goals.

Help children with autism

Compromise with family and friends
Turn ""big deals"" into ""little deals""
Move on to Plan B when Plan A doesn't work
Make plans and carry them out
Solve problems independently
Be a good friend
Handle disappointments and unexpected events
Avoid ""whim goals"" that get them off track