Executive Functioning: Fostering Age‑Appropriate Independence
The Wellesley SEPAC hosted a free virtual workshop led by Dr. Carolyn Cassill and Dr. Aikisha Harley of Newton Neuropsychology Group on February 11, 2026.
Executive functioning skills—such as planning, organization, working memory, and self‑control—help children become more independent at home, in school, and in the community. These skills develop over time and can be supported through everyday routines.
This workshop discussed:
- What executive functioning is and how it develops;
- How executive functioning and adaptive skills change at key transition points (kindergarten, upper elementary, middle school, high school, college, employment);
- Practical strategies families can use to help children build independence in daily life;
- Ways to partner with schools to support executive functioning in the classroom and at home; and
- Practical advice for incorporating executive functioning in school-based supports and the IEP process.
