Attendance: six parents, learning specialists, and psychologist

Lisa Woodruff, MPA psychologist was our speaker.  See notes below.

Executive Functioning/Attention Issues

Characterized by struggles:

1. To stop the first response of behavior/speed
2. To stop ongoing response even when it is a mistake (transfer of learning)
3. To block out distraction when task is boring

Defined as:

1. Developmental delay of the inhibitory system/Disability of performance and/or self control
2. Creating a gap between I.Q. and functioning

Impact:

Executive Functions: (Needed for self control of attention)

1. Working Memory

Hold a thought

Imitation

Hindsight/forethought

Anticipation

Sense of time

Self awareness

I.E. being given three instructions and then forgetting two of the three

2. Internalization of Speech (self talk)

Description/Reflection

Rule governed behavior

Problem solving

Reading comprehension

Moral reasoning

I.E. excessive talk due to "thinking out loud" all of the time

3. Self Regulation

Emotional self control

Objectivity

Motivation

I.E. additional struggle moving beyond disappointment and frustration to using positive emotions to plan

4. Reconstitution

Verbal fluency

Vicarious learning

Interference

Analysis/synthesis

I.E. struggle to select and choose a plan of action

Impact:

Executive Functioning helps to manage I.Q.

Attention Issues are NOT a disease but a result of how the brain works. Attention issues cannot be cured, but can be managed: Neurodevelopmental

In the areas that are impacted it is important to think of a three year delay when compared to expectations geared toward chronological age

Recommended Management:

5. Academic modifications
6. Parent education
7. Child understanding
8. Individual/family counseling: can include coaching as opposed to "insight-oriented" approach.
9. Medication

Comprehensive diagnosis is important:

1. Transition/change
2. Anxiety
3. Mood Disorders

Next meeting:  Tuesday, May 13, 2008 from 8:30 to 9:30 am

Gretchen Cockrean will bring treats