Heartland AEA PEC Sponsoring Parent Book Club to Begin This Fall

Do you know a child who has trouble switching gears? Are her reactions bigger than the situation calls for? What about losing track of information and details? 

If this sounds familiar, the child may struggle with executive functioning. Executive functioning issues aren’t a disability on their own--they’re weaknesses in a key set of mental skills that help the brain organize and act on information. Learn more about executive functioning by viewing this infographic. 

“Difficulties with executive function are typical in childhood and adolescence, but they are especially pronounced in children who are diagnosed with disorders such as autism, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Conduct Disorder and phenylketonuria (PKU),” Philip David Zelazo, Ph.D., professor at the University of Minnesota Institute of Child Development, says. Executive functioning can be improved through tools and strategies that help kids move toward independence. 

Is this something you think a parent you know would want to learn more about? Then encourage him or her to join a new virtual book club, hosted by Kate Boonstra, parent coordinator for the Agency’s Parent & Educator Connection (PEC). 

Parents will read The Impulsive, Disorganized Child: Solutions for Parenting Kids with Executive Functioning Difficulties and meet periodically via videoconferencing for discussion and support. Parents can sign up using this form. The first 20 to sign up will be able to participate. 

If you need more information or have questions, contact Kate Boonstra at kboonstra@heartlandaea.org or ext. 14625.