As students settle into their school year routines, one key ingredient for success, especially in a virtual learning environment, is developing strong executive function skills like time management and organization in online learning. Developing strong executive function skills—like time management, planning, and task prioritization—helps students stay on top of their studies while also fostering independence and confidence. But what exactly are executive function skills, and how can we help students build these important habits?
What Are Executive Function Skills?
Executive function refers to mental skills, including working memory, flexible thinking, establishing routines, and building self-control. These processes allow us to plan, focus our attention, remember instructions, and manage multiple tasks effectively—critical skills for virtual learners managing online assignments and deadlines. For kids, especially those learning online, these skills are crucial for organizing assignments, meeting deadlines, and staying engaged. These skills are critical as students age and prepare to thrive in college or career settings.
Some common executive function skills that can help students thrive in a virtual classroom include:
- Time Management: Knowing how to allocate their time for tasks and stick to a schedule.
- Planning and Prioritization: Setting goals, breaking tasks into steps, and identifying what needs to be done first.
- Self-Monitoring: Being aware of progress and adjusting strategies if necessary.
- Task Initiation: Starting tasks without procrastination or feeling overwhelmed—even when your list is long.
- Organization: Keeping track of materials, assignments, and deadlines.
How to Build Executive Function Skills for Success in a Virtual Classroom
In a traditional classroom setting, teachers often help students develop critical executive function skills like time management and organization. However, in a virtual learning environment, students must develop these skills independently. This makes it all the more important for students—and parents—to develop and reinforce strong executive function habits.
Building strong executive function skills is one of the most valuable gifts we can give our students, especially in an online learning environment. It’s not just about getting good grades—it's about developing the habits that will help them succeed in all areas of life. Virtual learning allows students to take ownership of their education, and with the right support, they can thrive.
Renae Braun, Executive Director of Fox Valley Virtual School
Here are some practical ways to help your child develop executive function skills in a virtual learning environment:
1. Create a Structured Virtual Learning Environment
Designate a dedicated workspace that is free from distractions. Having a consistent spot for studying helps reinforce focus and reduces the time spent searching for materials or getting into the "study zone.”
It’s okay if students occasionally move around and learn from different areas of the house—sometimes, a change of scenery can boost productivity. However, maintaining a primary space for learning can create structure and promote better concentration, helping students stay on task and organized throughout their study sessions.
2. Use Visual Planners and Schedules
Visual aids, like calendars, checklists, or online planners, can help students see what needs to be done and when. Encourage your child to cross off tasks as they complete them to build a sense of accomplishment.
For students with learning differences or conditions such as ADHD or autism, tools that support organization and time management are especially beneficial. Breaking tasks into manageable steps and using visual supports can reduce overwhelm and increase focus, helping them stay on track.
Additionally, consider sensory needs when setting up their workspace. Noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, or timers can help minimize distractions and improve focus. Flexibility is key—some students may benefit from moving around or using standing desks, while others find comfort in a structured and predictable routine. Tailoring the environment to their individual needs can make a significant difference in your child’s learning experience.
3. Set Small, Achievable Goals
Rather than tackling large assignments all at once, teach your child to break them into smaller tasks. This makes big projects less overwhelming and helps them practice planning and prioritizing.
You can reinforce this skill at home by involving them in activities that require planning and sequencing. For example, plan a meal together. Break down the process—deciding on a recipe, gathering ingredients, prepping, cooking, and setting the table. This mirrors the steps they’ll need to take with school assignments, showing how smaller tasks lead to a finished project. By practicing this kind of thinking in real-life situations, they’ll become more comfortable applying it to academic tasks, developing both time management and organizational skills.
4. Encourage Breaks and Mindfulness
Executive function isn't about working harder—it’s about making things manageable. Encourage your child to plan regular breaks during learning and study sessions—an important aspect of maintaining focus and reducing stress in online learning environments. Break times can be divided into snack, relaxation, and physical movement times—they’re all important!
5. Praise Effort, Not Just Results
Developing these skills takes time, so celebrate your child’s efforts and progress, not just their grades. This reinforces the idea that growth is a process and encourages perseverance. For all children, feedback with words helps identify growth opportunities, boosts their confidence, encourages them to face challenging problems, and lets them know they’re supported when they struggle.
6. Prepare for Common School Challenges and Triggers
Developing executive function skills, like managing emotions and staying focused, takes time and practice. It’s natural for students to encounter certain tasks or situations—like tough subjects, losing a game, completing homework, or receiving criticism—that trigger their frustration. These moments can throw them (and sometimes the whole family) off track.
If you know your child tends to struggle in specific situations, help them plan. Practice coping strategies together, such as taking deep breaths, breaking tasks into smaller steps, or focusing on long-term goals. Encourage them to recognize that some tasks will be difficult, but overcoming challenges is part of the learning process. With these tools in place, they’ll be better equipped to manage setbacks, stay motivated, and keep moving forward.
In a world that’s increasingly online, teaching kids time management for virtual learning and how to stay organized in an online classroom is more important than ever. Helping students develop executive function habits early on is key to setting them up for long-term success, both academically and personally.
These skills not only help children manage their current workload but also equip them with the tools they’ll need to handle future challenges. By supporting the development of healthy habits at home and within the virtual school framework, parents and educators can work together to create an environment where students can succeed.
