Page 38 - Teach Not Preach: A Strength Based Approach to Executive Function Skills
P. 38
How Executive Function Skill
difficulties can spiral into
bigger struggles
PANIC!
The class is given a string of
instructions about a writing task.
The stressor of unmet emotional
1 As they sit down, the teacher 2 needs (not feeling capable or
reminds the class of their targets
and things to include. certain) is triggered.
The child sits at his seat then
realizes he doesn’t know what to
do.
3
The emotional
stressor along
5 with impulse
control difficulties
The teacher gives the child a leads the child to
4 behavior point. He now start work
doesn’t feel in control of avoiding -
what is happening to him.
mucking around
and flicking a
pencil.
The teacher gives
him a warning.
The added emotional stressor of feeling
a lack of control along with his poor
skills in regulating big feelings leads to
a fight stress response.
