Executive Function & ADHD: Practical Strategies

Executive function skills help students plan, focus, manage emotions and get things done – yet they are often inconsistent in learners with ADHD. This session explains what executive functions are, how ADHD affects working memory, inhibition and motivation, and what that looks like in the classroom. We will explore practical strategies teachers and school psychologists can use right away: adjusting task design, using visual supports, externalising time and organisation, and coaching students’ self-awareness. You will leave with concrete tools to scaffold teaching and support learning while maintaining realistic expectations and your own wellbeing. **This webinar will be recorded and available for 30 days after the event** Session 1: Tuesday, 28th July, 7-8:30 pm AEST (Melbourne Time) Session 2: Tuesday, 4th August, 7-8:30 pm AEST (Melbourne Time) Dr Barbara Sheil ACC is a health and ADHD coach, executive function specialist, and former medical research scientist with more than 20 years’ experience in clinical research, health education, and community-based coaching. She holds a PhD in Mucosal Immunology from UCC, Ireland, and has worked across gastroenterology, respiratory medicine, endocrinology, and mental health in Ireland and Australia. Barbara is the founder and principal coach at Happy Hippocampus, a Perth-based Health & ADHD Coach Consultancy that provides evidence-based, personalised coaching for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Her work focuses on education and coaching in executive function and ADHD, and on links to mental and physical health. Barbara works with clients to create ADHD – safe environments, building skills for better health and well-being at work, school, and home. Since 2014, Barbara has delivered health and mindfulness workshops and ADHD focused coaching in primary care and community settings, collaborating with GPs and other professionals to translate current research into accessible strategies for families. She is an associate certified coach with the ICF and has completed ADHD-specific coach training through the ADD Coaching Academy. Barbara brings her strong research background to her education work, championing research-informed, people-centred practice—experience she now applies to supporting professionals, organisations and families to understand executive function, ADHD and learning in the classroom and workplace. Her current practice at Happy Hippocampus includes individual ADHD and executive function coaching, family sessions, and professional consultations for schools and workplaces seeking to create more neuro-inclusive environments. Use the below form to search the website.