TOP PICKS | 17 TOOLS
Best Apps and Sites for Improving Executive Function
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Thinking Time Pro - Cognitive Skills for Early Learning
Challenging games stress memory, logic, impulse control, flexibility
Bottom line: Effective and engaging way to address foundational cognitive skills; most kids will need adult support.
Choiceworks
Practical, flexible life-skills diagrams build executive functions
Bottom line: A variety of customizability options make it easy to personalize boards.
Todo Telling Time
Top-notch tool for teaching time, from minutes to months
Bottom line: Well-rounded, fun learning game that's ALL about time.
Children with Autism: A Visual Schedule
Simple, wearable calendar and task tool could be great for some
Bottom line: This is a usefully customizable spin on visual timers, but the cool wearable version is accessible to very few students.
First Then Visual Schedule HD
Useful multisensory tool teaches self-direction and follow-through
Bottom line: This simple but powerful tool engages kids in independently following a schedule.
Goalbook Toolkit
Set tailored targets with pricey but worth-it kit of tools, strategies
Bottom line: You pay for quality with Goalbook Toolkit, including access to clear, well-crafted learning goals and strategies that allow for far easier differentiation.
Mindful Powers
Care for a cute creature to practice mindfulness and self-control
Bottom line: Meditation lessons and visual timers act as decent supplemental activities for introducing SEL skills.
Remind
Messaging platform offers tight focus on school-to-home connection
Bottom line: Well-designed, highly effective messaging tool delivers on its promise to connect home and school.
Time Timer
Manage and conceptualize time with great visuals, a few bugs
Bottom line: A decent option for visual timer needs, being sufficiently customizable, but there are still a few bugs and room for improvement.
Lucidchart
Intuitive editor helps users create and share dynamic visual diagrams
Bottom line: Students and teachers can use this tool alone or collaboratively to build and share stunning, effective visuals that stretch thinking.
MindMeister
Powerful mind mapper aimed at adults, simple enough for older kids
Bottom line: Sophisticated productivity tool enhances learning and organization with simple dashboard and slick workspace.
WorkFlowy
Simple tool helps teachers and students make lists, get organized
Bottom line: A simple, free way to get organized combining lists, outlines, and notes with some extra nice-to-have features that make this tool a solid option for teachers and students.
Bear
Write, edit, and sync content on the go with flexible note-taking tool
Bottom line: For an app that doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles, it's surprisingly versatile and useful for many types of writing and note-taking.
iHomework 2
Keep track of assignments, due dates, and tasks with digital planner
Bottom line: This flexible, easy-to-learn organizational tool will help students get set up for success, though teachers will need to follow up regularly to make sure the information is accurate.
Notability
Flexible note-taking tool empowers learners of all abilities
Bottom line: An excellent tool that lets students make their notes thorough and useful in the way that best suits their learning styles and abilities.
Microsoft OneNote
Note-taking giant built for flexible, collaborative work
Bottom line: A powerful (and free) tool for thinking and organization that's making smart strides in the education space.
myHomework Student Planner
Digital planner makes scheduling easy, if paired with teacher app
Bottom line: If used on a regular basis with teacher guidance and motivation, students can be ready to tackle their complex schedules with ease.
