In this episode, I chat with executive functioning coach and veteran educator Carrie Bonnett who shares her journey from classroom teaching to helping students and adults strengthen essential life skills.

Carrie’s warmth and honesty shine through as she explains what executive functioning really is, why it matters, and how we can all support students (and ourselves) in developing focus, organization, and emotional regulation without shame or judgment.

We explore the small shifts that make a big difference - from visible instructions and timers to building accountability and curiosity in classrooms and homes.

Whether you’re a teacher, school psychologist, or parent, you’ll walk away with simple, actionable tools and a deeper understanding of how these skills can be taught, practiced, and celebrated.

Here are the highlights:

How a friend’s suggestion sparked a new career path (01:32)

What an executive functioning coach actually does (03:22)

The “aha” moment about willpower versus skill (07:03)

Covid’s lasting impact on student focus and independence (10:01)

Making the invisible visible - a teacher’s best tool (15:43)

Timers aren’t just for toddlers (20:00)

Tech that helps (and sometimes hinders) executive skills (21:54)

What teachers and families both need to know (28:39)

Apps Discussed: Goblin.tools; to-do; to-doist; Forest: Stay Focused; Habitica: Gamify Your Life; Calm; Headspace

EF Coaching Programs:

Peg Dawson: https://www.smartbutscatteredkids.com/events/invite-us/

Executive Functioning Success: https://executivefunctioningsuccess.com/education-and-training-for-teachers-and-professionals/

Books Shared:

Bright Kids Who Couldn't Care Less

Finding the Magic in Middle School

The Anxious Generation

The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all listeners are required to follow federal and state law, as well as their school district guidelines and policies.

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