Many students today face challenges in effectively planning their week, leading to a cycle of procrastination, last-minute cramming, and academic underperformance. Schools often exacerbate this issue by failing to emphasize accountability for homework—assignments may not be thoroughly checked, graded, or even reviewed. Consequently, students may not realize they are falling behind until test scores reflect their struggles.

While some parents attempt to intervene by helping with homework completion, they often lack the time or expertise to address the root cause: a deficiency in planning and executive function skills. Students cannot navigate their academic responsibilities without proper guidance, often adopting ineffective study habits that hinder long-term success.

The Role of Weekly Planning and Executive Function Coaching

Executive function coaching and structured weekly planning provide students with the skills necessary for academic success and beyond. By mastering these techniques, students can:

• Break large assignments into smaller, manageable tasks
• Prioritize work based on deadlines and importance
• Allocate time effectively for homework and studying
• Avoid procrastination and ineffective cramming sessions
• Understand the consequences and be aware of relatable examples if conditions aren’t met 

These skills can be helpful for school and for developing habits that may benefit future career and personal growth. Without structured support, students might find it challenging to manage time, stay organized, maintain self-discipline, and think critically—skills often important in professional environments.

Schools, Parents, and the Accountability Gap

While schools offer the foundation for education, parents can also play a role in supporting learning habits. Without collaboration between parents, schools, and students, students may not always have the support they need. To address this, both sides can work together to:

• Encourage students to develop and adhere to weekly schedules
• Monitor academic progress and offer timely support
• Communicate with students on what they need to succeed
• Maintain communication with teachers and school administrators regarding students’ needs
• Practice positive reinforcements, which is critical to a highly effective/affective student

By fostering an environment where planning and executive function skills are prioritized, students are better positioned to achieve their academic goals and develop self-sufficiency in their learning journey.

The Impact of “Gentle Parenting” on Grit and Resilience

An emerging concern among educators and developmental experts is the influence of contemporary parenting styles on students’ resilience. In a recent discussion led by Cory Borman and Carla Bayot, co-founders of Swoon Learning, the topic of “gentle parenting” was examined for its unintended consequences. While gentle parenting emphasizes empathy and understanding, Borman and Bayot highlighted potential drawbacks, mainly when it leans towards its subset of “permissive parenting.” In these instances, a significant lack of consistent discipline and boundaries may hinder the development of crucial skills like self-regulation, responsibility, and the ability to navigate challenges effectively.

Carla Bayot noted that many modern parents adopt a friend-like approach with their children, allowing them to make their own decisions and favoring organic choices. While well-intentioned, this style can lead to decision fatigue, where children, overwhelmed by too many options, opt for the easiest path. Bayot advocates for a more structured approach, where parents explain the rationale behind instructions, helping children develop a sense of responsibility rather than avoidance.

According to Bayot, “One major issue with gentle parenting is the tendency to avoid confrontation to maintain household harmony.” In many cases, disciplinary roles are outsourced to external figures, such as coaches or tutors, inadvertently diminishing parental authority. This shift can leave parents powerless while creating a dynamic where children only respond to external validation.

Borman and Bayot suggest that this phenomenon may not solely be a generational divide but could reflect a broader cultural shift shaped by parents’ work schedules and societal pressures. Today’s parents face a landscape very different from that of previous generations. The abundance of information from numerous online sources and constant notifications can be just as distracting for parents as it is for their children. This overload and easier access to various sources may leave parents uncertain about how to guide their children effectively. In striving to encourage independent thinking, some parents might see structure as rigidity, leading to a more hands-off approach that may not always offer the guidance children need.

Swoon Learning’s Approach to Academic Success

Recognizing these challenges, Swoon Learning offers a unique solution by integrating executive function development into its tutoring programs. The Bay Area-based company was founded by Carla Bayot and Cory Borman, who bring diverse expertise from industries including education, software, and hardware design. 

The two met while working at Anova, where they played key roles in the company’s $250M sale to Electrolux. Their shared passion for learning and innovation led to Swoon Learning, an academic coaching company that goes beyond traditional academic tutoring.

Swoon Learning’s approach prioritizes one-on-one support, helping students receive personalized guidance in academic subjects and essential life skills. The company aims to help students improve their grades and develop self-discipline, time management, and strategic thinking—crucial for lifelong success.

Bayot, whose experience includes math and physics tutoring and working on projects for Apple, NASA, and XBox, emphasizes the importance of direct engagement in education. 

Borman, leveraging his technology and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) background and years in the education industry, specializes in neurodivergent learners, including those with ADD, ADHD, and ASD. Together, their expertise shapes Swoon Learning’s holistic approach to academic coaching.

Redefining Academic Coaching for Long-Term Success

At its core, Swoon Learning believes that the human connection in education is irreplaceable. While technology can aid learning, an effective educator can inspire and motivate in ways that digital platforms cannot replicate. By incorporating executive function coaching into their tutoring model, Swoon Learning aims to equip students with the skills necessary to navigate academic challenges independently.

For parents and educators seeking a comprehensive approach to student success, prioritizing weekly planning and executive function development is crucial. By addressing these foundational skills, we can move beyond temporary fixes like homework help and instead cultivate students prepared to thrive in any academic or professional setting.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any educational institution or organization. The content is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional academic advice or guidance. Readers are encouraged to consult with educational professionals for personalized support and recommendations tailored to individual learning needs.

Published by Jeremy S.