- Step #1: Ask about their process, judgment-free
- Step #2: Share Suggestions Tailored to Their Strengths
- Step #2.5: Introducing Google Calendar to Students
- Step #3: Keep track of their progress
- Why Executive Function Tutoring Helps
- Ready to Try the ASK Method?
Helping students keep track of their schoolwork isn’t just about planners or checklists. It’s about giving them the tools and mindset to manage responsibilities confidently. In this blog, we’ll share a simple 3-step approach from executive function tutoring that supports elementary through high school students in feeling less overwhelmed and more in control.
Whether you’re a parent or a teacher, you can use this strategy to meet students where they are and build skills that actually stick.
Step 1: Ask about their process, judgment-free
For example, before offering advice on how they track and manage their assignments, start with curiosity. Sit down with your student and ask, “What’s your process right now?” This opens the door for honest sharing without judgment. Many students only look one day ahead, which makes it hard to plan for big assignments like projects or tests.
Let them lead. Try saying, “I’ve noticed school has felt tough lately. I’d love to hear what’s working and what’s not. Is it okay if we talk about it?”
Once they agree, follow up with thoughtful questions:
- “How do you break down a big project or test?”
- “What’s worked well for you in the past?”
- “What tools have you used to manage your time?”
This first step, often used in executive function tutoring, encourages reflection and gives you insight into their natural tendencies. Before sharing your own ideas, ask, “Would it be okay if I offered a few suggestions that might help?”
Want more ways to support students who feel stuck? Read Why Students Procrastinate on Studying + How to Fix It Now.
Step 2: Share Suggestions Tailored to Their Strengths
It’s also important to focus on student’s strengths instead of gaps.
Now that you understand what’s working and what’s not, you can better customize your support. If they don’t enjoy using a paper planner but like checking things on their phone, then they might like exploring digital tools. For example, students who prefer visuals often thrive with apps like Google Calendar.
It’s also important to focus on student’s strengths instead of gaps. If they enjoy checking off tasks, suggest a digital checklist. If they respond well to reminders, recommend calendar notifications. Tailoring suggestions this way is a core part of executive function tutoring.
Rather than simply telling them what to use, walk them through it. This “show, not tell” approach helps new tools feel more intuitive and personal.
Step 2.5: Introducing Google Calendar to Students
Google Calendar is a practical and student-friendly tool that works especially well for visual and tech-savvy learners. Here’s a way to guide your student through it:
Start with:
“Let me show you how this tool works. Then you can give it a try on your own.”
Walkthrough Example:
- Click “Create” or drag on the calendar to make an event.
- Add “School” from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- Set it to repeat every Monday through Friday.
- Choose a favorite color to personalize it.
Let them try next. For example, if they have sports practice on certain days, ask them to create those recurring events.
This process gives students ownership. Afterward, ask questions like:
- “What did you like about this?”
- “Would you want to keep using it?”
- “What’s one small step you could try with it this week?”
For students who struggle with after-school planning, this ties directly into strategies from our blog on How to Manage Your School Schedule.
Step 3: Keep Track of Their Progress
Consistent check-ins are a common feature of executive function tutoring because they help build both accountability and independence.
Once they’ve started using a new tool or method, then checking in is key. This step depends on your role. Parents may want to create regular (but low-pressure moments) to ask how things are going. Teachers can have quick one-on-one chats before or after class.
Try questions like:
- “How’s the tool working for you?”
- “Is anything confusing or not helpful?”
- “Can you show me what you’ve set up?”
A visual progress tracker can help. A simple weekly chart that students check off allows you both to see patterns, habits, and areas where extra support might be needed.
Decide on a check-in schedule. Start with once a week or every other week, then adjust as habits grow. Consistent check-ins are a common feature of executive function tutoring because they help build both accountability and independence.
And don’t forget to celebrate wins, even the small ones! Positive reinforcement helps students stay motivated and strengthens their confidence.
For even more ideas, check out Top 5 Executive Function Hacks.
Why Executive Function Tutoring Helps
The ASK Method—Ask, Share, Keep Track—is at the heart of our approach.
The ASK Method—Ask, Share, Keep Track—is at the heart of our approach. Executive function tutoring helps students think ahead, reflect on their learning, and take ownership of their progress.
These aren’t one-size-fits-all strategies. They’re flexible tools that students adapt to fit their needs. That’s how they build consistency, confidence, and success in school and beyond.
Ready to Try the ASK Method?
How is your student currently managing their schoolwork? Try this 3-step process, along with the calendar walkthrough, and see how it changes their sense of control and progress.
