Just Another Accessory: Why Buying Your Teen a Daily Planner Doesn't Solve the Problem
I was conducting a research study once and I had a participant describe their daily planner as “just another accessory”. This person went on to explain that every year they would buy the prettiest, most expensive planner system that claimed to be the solution to all of their problems. But in reality, it just ended up being an “accessory” to their life. Something this person would carry around diligently but never use to it’s full potential - or let’s be honest, use at all.
As parents, we often look for the best tools to help our teens manage their increasingly busy lives. From daily planners to sophisticated scheduling apps, the market is flooded with products promising to organize and simplify. However, there's an essential truth we need to understand: no matter how excellent a tool is, it won't magically solve the problem if the foundational skills are missing.
The Tools vs. Skills Dilemma
Imagine giving a hammer and nails to someone who has never been taught how to use them. Would you expect them to build a sturdy bookshelf? Likely not. The same principle applies to cooking. Handing a novice cook a set of high-quality knives won't result in a gourmet meal without the knowledge and practice of proper techniques.
The same is true for our teens and their executive functioning skills. Tools like planners and apps can be incredibly helpful, but only if our teens have the underlying skills to use them effectively. Without these skills, even the most advanced planner becomes just another item collecting dust on their desk.
Building the Right Skills
So, what are these crucial skills, and how can we help our teens develop them?
Time Management: This is more than just writing down deadlines. It's about understanding how to allocate time effectively, prioritizing tasks, and avoiding procrastination.
Organization: Beyond arranging physical items, this involves organizing thoughts, creating coherent plans, and systematically tackling projects.
Goal Setting: Knowing how to set realistic, achievable goals and break them down into manageable steps is essential for long-term success.
Self-Regulation: This includes managing emotions, staying focused on tasks, and knowing when and how to take breaks to avoid burnout.
The Role of Coaching and Practice
Developing these skills isn't something that happens overnight or through a single lesson. It requires continuous practice and often, the guidance of a coach or mentor who understands how to nurture these abilities.
Through appropriate coaching, your teen can learn how to use tools like planners and apps effectively. They'll understand that these tools are aids in a broader system of self-management, not solutions in themselves. Coaches can provide personalized strategies and feedback, helping your teen to refine their skills over time.
Ensuring Your Child Reaches Their Full Potential
At Cognitive Connections Coaching, we focus on building these foundational skills within your teen's brain. We understand that every child is unique, and so we tailor our approach to meet their specific needs. Our goal is to empower your teen to reach their full potential, equipping them with the tools and skills they need to succeed not just in school, but in life.
Remember, buying your teen a daily planner is just the first step. The real magic happens when they learn how to use it effectively, and that comes from building strong, underlying skills. With the right coaching and practice, your child can develop the abilities they need to thrive, turning those planners and apps into powerful allies in their journey to success.
Take the Next Step
If you're ready to help your teen build these critical skills, we're here to support you. Contact us today to learn more about our coaching programs and how we can help your child become more organized, efficient, and successful. Together, we can lay the foundation for their future achievements.
Good luck!
