Top Tools and Apps That Actually Help with Executive Function
Not all EF tools are created equal. The best ones are simple, customizable, and designed to grow with your child. Here are some parent- and educator-approved favorites. 1. Time Timer (Ages 3+) A visual timer that shows time disappearing. Great for kids who don’t yet understand abstract time. 2. Todoist / TickTick (Ages 10+) Digital task managers that help older kids and teens plan and prioritize. 3. Google Calendar + Reminders (Ages 12+) Digital calendars aren’t just for adults. Teens benefit from planning out their weeks and color-coding by class. 4. MyHomework App (Ages 10–18) An academic planner app that tracks assignments and deadlines. 5. Bouncy Balls / Focus@Will / Brain.fm (All ages) Sound-based tools to support focus or calm. Bonus: Old School Tools Still Rock The best tools are the ones your child actually uses. Try a few, let them pick favorites, and make them part of the daily routine.