Florida's First Choice for Autism Supports

B2F: Thriving on the Spectrum: Building Executive Functioning Skills for Adulthood

January 17, 2026 11:15am 12:30pm Legacy South 2

AbstractThis presentation examines ways to facilitate executive functioning skills while addressing the unique challenges faced by many teens and young adults on the spectrum as they progress through middle and high school toward higher education and the workforce. Emphasis is placed on coaching rather than rescuing in addition to essential life skills needed for success, which include executive functioning skills, communication strategies, when and how to request accommodations, self-advocacy, and building resiliency, all of which are fundamental for achieving goals in adulthood.
Objectives1. Identify key executive functioning skills and recognize how deficits in these areas uniquely impact children and young adults on the spectrum in academic and life transitions.
2. Utilize practical strategies to foster executive functioning skills in middle and high school children and young adults on the spectrum, with a focus on individualized, trauma-informed approaches.
3. Coach youth in effectively communicating their needs, requesting accommodations, and engaging in self-advocacy to navigate both educational and professional environments.
4. Promote resilience by teaching coping strategies, goal setting, and mindset development tailored to the unique experiences of children and young adults on the spectrum.
Family Health & Wellness Mental Health Self Advocacy Social Skills Transition

Speakers

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