ADHD & Executive Functioning Support for Kids: 6 Parenting Tips from a St. Charles, IL Therapist
Many parents in St. Charles, IL, find themselves asking:
“Why won’t my child do their homework, remember their chores, or stay organized? Am I failing as a parent?”
If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. These struggles are often not about laziness or defiance—they are connected to executive functioning skills. Executive functioning refers to a set of mental skills that help with planning, organization, self-control, time management, and flexible thinking. Children and teens who lag in these areas may appear forgetful, resistant, or unmotivated, when in reality, they simply need more guidance and skill-building.
As a therapist in St. Charles, IL, I work with many families facing these challenges, often in connection with ADHD. Here are six practical parenting strategies to support your child’s growth and reduce daily stress at home:
1. Stop Doing the Work for Your Child
Helping is important, but doing everything for your child prevents them from learning problem-solving skills. Instead of giving the answers to a math problem or cleaning their room for them, walk them through the process step by step. Provide “breadcrumbs” that guide them in the right direction, so they can build confidence and independence.
2. Take Baby Steps
Expecting a spotless bedroom overnight is unrealistic. Instead, break tasks into smaller, achievable goals. If your child starts by picking up just their socks, praise that progress. Over time, these small wins lead to bigger accomplishments—and less power struggles between you and your child.
3. Ask Better Questions
Instead of “How was school?” (which usually gets you “fine”), try open-ended prompts like:
“Tell me something you did today that was brave.”
“What was one success you had?”
“What’s something you struggled with and what did you learn from it?”
These questions encourage deeper reflection, normalize mistakes, and help children develop stronger social and communication skills.
4. Use Timers and Reminders
Children and teens often struggle to grasp time. Tools like sand timers, phone alarms, or visual schedules can help them see how long a task really takes. For repeated reminders, sticky notes in visible spots (by shoes, the bathroom mirror, or computer) can reduce nagging and encourage responsibility.
5. Read the Room
No one likes being asked to do chores in the middle of a fun game or when they’re upset. Set your child up for success by waiting for a natural pause, making eye contact, and confirming they understood your request. Be specific about what you want to see (e.g., “Please put your dishes in the sink” instead of “Don’t make a mess”).
6. Acknowledge and Praise Progress
Every small success matters. Instead of focusing only on mistakes, notice when your child comes home on time, starts homework, or helps with chores. Be specific in your praise—“I appreciate you putting your dishes in the sink”—so your child knows exactly what behavior to repeat. Positive reinforcement motivates kids far more than criticism.
Final Thoughts
Parenting a child who struggles with executive functioning can feel overwhelming, but with patience and consistency, you can help them build the skills they need for success. Remember: small steps lead to big changes.
If you are looking for support from a therapist in St. Charles, IL for your child’s ADHD, executive functioning, anxiety, or emotional regulation, our team at Hopeology PLLC is here to help. Together, we can create a plan that empowers your child and reduces stress at home.
👉 Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our therapy services in St. Charles, IL. Our therapists are ready to help you or your child build better executive functioning skills.
