The TPTS Parent Monthly Discussion Guide from the Think. Plan. Thrive. Series is a supportive resource designed to help parents and caregivers engage in meaningful conversations with their middle and high school students (grades 8–12) about developing executive function skills. Recognizing that these skills don’t develop automatically, this guide encourages families to approach monthly discussions flexibly—whether through quick weekly questions or deeper talks—to build awareness, support growth, and keep communication ongoing.

Each month focuses on a different executive function skill, such as planning, organization, time management, task initiation, goal setting, working memory, metacognition, emotional control, focus and attention, cognitive flexibility, prioritizing, and self-monitoring. For every topic, the guide provides:

• A simple overview explaining the skill’s importance,

• Thought-provoking questions designed to prompt reflection and sharing,

• Suggestions for parents to listen actively, share their own experiences, and help their child identify strategies for improvement.

This guide fosters a collaborative, supportive environment at home where students can become more independent thinkers and learners. It complements the broader Think. Plan. Thrive. Series by connecting family conversations with classroom and workbook practices, helping students build lifelong executive function skills.

Stay connected with The Executive Function Project for more resources at @theexecutivefunctionproject and www.theexecutivefunctionproject.com.