#2: Parenting Teens with ADHD & Executive Functioning Challenges

The teenage years can be a challenging time as kids seek independence and create their own identity. When, on top of that, they struggle with executive functioning skill development, it can be especially challenging for them and their parents. Although parents love their kids, they might not know the best way to be there for them. When parents have a better understanding of what's going on, it will help ease stress. They'll also be in a better position to support their kids, strengthen their connection, and make them feel loved. Austin-based teen Executive Functioning Coach and owner of AURA Coaching & Education Services, Paul Benton, is no stranger to teens or struggles with executive functions. Paul's career as a special education teacher and middle school principal was cut short after challenges from neurological Lyme disease left him unable to keep up with the demands of the job. Despite still struggling with hearing, seizures, and executive functions as a result of Lyme, you'll often hear him say, "Lyme is the greatest thing that has ever happened to me because it forced me to figure out what it means to live." After resigning as Head of School of a small private PreK-8th school in Austin, Paul enrolled in iPEC, a coaching program geared toward leadership. The goals was originally to try and leave the education system toward the corporate world, but it didn't take him long to see that coaching just might be a fantastic solution to the problems education faces. AURA Coaching & Education Services is the blend of the two worlds of education and coaching. Executive Functioning Coaching with Paul is a deep dive in learning what our executive functions are, how emotions play a significant role, and what the purpose of adolescence truly is- the give and take between parent and child regarding the shift of responsibility from the dependency of childhood toward the independence of adulthood. Paul's website: https://www.aura-edcoach.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aura.edcoach TIkTok: @paulmbenton