Intentional Household

Why Kids Struggle with Routines (and What Executive Function Has to Do With It)

Laura Wilson Season 1 Episode 30

If your child melts down at homework time, forgets their backpack three days a week, or takes forever to get ready in the morning—you’re not alone.
The culprit might be executive function—the brain’s “CEO” that manages planning, organization, and follow-through.

In this episode, Laura talks with Sarah Cormack, founder of Families Flourishing and @familiesflourishing, about how executive function develops from toddlerhood through the teen years, and what parents can do to support it with both structure and compassion.

You’ll learn:

  • What executive function really is and why it matters at every age
  • How to tell the difference between “won’t” and “can’t” when it comes to follow-through
  • Playful, age-appropriate ways to build skills at home
  • How to create systems that reduce power struggles and foster independence

🎧 Listen now and get simple, practical strategies to help your kids get started, stay calm, and finish strong—while bringing more ease to your home.

👉 For more tips and resources, visit www.intentionalhousehold.com