Increasing Independence Through Executive Function Strategies

Children and teens who have difficulties with executive function skills often have trouble with a variety of daily tasks such as getting started on tasks, completing assignments on time, making careless mistakes, and keeping track of their belongings. Their bedroom and workspaces might be disorganized, they may lose their assignments or forget to turn them in, and they might procrastinate often, having no sense of urgency. These children and teens can often be misunderstood as “underachievers” and may be at risk for academic, behavioral, and emotional difficulties.

This presentation will explore what executive function is, what executive deficits may look like, and present some practical strategies for how to help children and teens overcome these difficulties and thrive in their academic, social, and home environments. Learn strategies and modifications for improving areas such as organization, time management, impulse control, goal-directed persistence, and executive function skills for increased independence.

Info: Kariann Anthony, MA, OTR/L

Kariann Anthony is an occupational therapist with the Arise Group, LLC, and is happy to be here representing Rise Up Therapies. Kariann received her Bachelor’s degree in Human Development from UC San Diego and her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from USC (University of Southern California). She has specialized training with certifications in sensory integration/praxis as well as feeding/swallowing and has over 18 years of experience working as an OT in outpatient clinic settings, early intervention programs, and school-based settings. Kariann enjoys helping children of all ages reach their goals while having lots of fun at the same time! She also feels blessed to work closely with families and join in celebrating their child’s victories.

Info: Morgan Martinson, MS, OTR/L

Morgan Martinson is an occupational therapist at Rise Up Therapies in Franklin, TN. Morgan attended Quinnipiac University in Connecticut, where she earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Health Science Studies as well as her Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy. She has special interests in the areas of sensory processing, handwriting and executive functioning, and has taken continuing education courses in the areas of executive functioning and sensory-based feeding. She enjoys working with children of all ages, as well as adolescents and adults. Morgan is passionate about helping children and their families achieve their goals through play, fun and functional activities!

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