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Is your child refusing to start their homework, melting down when asked to pack a backpack, or avoiding simple tasks? It might look like laziness—but it’s not. 

In this episode, Andi Clark breaks down what’s really going on beneath procrastination. Hint: it’s not about effort or motivation. It’s about executive functioning struggles—and missing foundational skills most people don’t talk about.

You'll walk away with a new lens for understanding your child’s behavior, insights on how to reduce shame and frustration, and actionable first steps to break the cycle of procrastination.

Key Takeaways:

• Procrastination is not laziness—it’s often a sign of overwhelmed executive functioning.
• Skills like initiation, working memory, time awareness, emotional regulation, and flexibility all play a role.
• Pushing harder or offering rewards won’t work unless the root cause is addressed.
• There is no one-size-fits-all solution—support needs to match your child’s specific gaps.
• Using the right scaffolding and starting with small wins can rebuild confidence and momentum.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:00 ] – Introduction: Why procrastination isn’t laziness

[00:01:00 ] – What executive functioning really is

[00:03:00 ] – Real-life examples: Andi’s son and homework meltdowns

[00:05:00 ] – Breakdown of key executive functioning skills that affect procrastination

[00:08:00 ] – How time perception and emotional regulation influence task avoidance

[00:10:00 ] – Observing your child’s patterns and asking the right questions

[00:11:00 ] – The shame cycle of procrastination and how it snowballs

[00:12:00 ] – Why planners, timers, and charts often don’t work

[00:15:00 ] – The fire analogy: Flames, logs, and kindling in EF support

[00:17:00 ] – Questions to help identify where your child’s breakdown is happening

[00:18:00 ] – Why patching top-level behaviors won’t work without a foundation

[00:20:00 ] – How to offer real support: Start with one EF skill, build small wins

[00:22:00 ] – Reframing procrastination as a skill gap, not a character flaw

[00:23:00 ] – Next steps: Self-assessment, Support Circle, and 1:1 coaching options

You’re not alone in this—understanding what’s really behind your child’s procrastination is the first step toward creating more calm, connection, and progress at home.