Executive Function Skills and Academically Struggling Students

Almost all children who struggle in academics are under constant stress. They are almost always in fight or flight mode. Their executive functioning skills are inhibited. This is why emotional control may be the most important of all of the executive functions for these kids. The other functions will always be inhibited until emotional control is gained. Starting with the body and learning mind-body techniques is often the most effective strategy. All other techniques, such as cognitive behavior therapy, will work better once the emotions are brought under control with physiology.