Brooklyn Letters IconBrooklyn Letters

1139 Prospect Avenue, Brooklyn

4.9 56 reviews

  • Avatar Emily Matles ★★★★★ a week ago
    We would highly recommend Ally! Our son always asks about her, so very thankful to Brooklyn Letters for introducing us.
    ~ Emily, mom of Brooklyn 2 year old
  • Avatar Natalie Levon ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Nicole has been an amazing therapist!! She played a tremendous role in our daughter’s speech progress and overall development. She has come such a long way and we are so happy with the therapy she received!
  • Avatar T Ainsley ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    I cannot express how grateful and rewarding my experience with Brooklyn Letters has been. Her tutor Ms. Daria is so knowledgeable, amazing, kind and awesome. My daughter has made so much progress in Literacy and Math and it's all … More thanks to Ms. Daria. I know my daughter is sad that she can no longer work with Ms. Daria, as she looked forward to their sessions every week. Thank you again!
  • Avatar Jackie Vasquez ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Excellent services, caring therapists.
  • Avatar Lil Amatore ★★★★★ 8 months ago
    Christina was absolutely wonderful. She went out of her way to win my son over and it worked. He looked forward to her visits and his speech improved so much under her care. She was super flexible and it’s clear she truly cares. We adore … More Christina and we’re going to miss her. Almost sad he improved so much! She’s simply amazing and we can’t say enough how great she is. I would recommend her services to anyone and everyone, without hesitation. Thank you so much for connecting us with her!
  • Avatar Colin Peters ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    We could not be happier with the services Valerie provided! She is very thoughtful and knowledgeable and provided significant guidance to support our daughter's speech development outside of our scheduled sessions. She established … More a great working relationship with her, and she will definitely be missed! Your business model is amazing and it was an absolute pleasure working with Valerie. I've referred your organization and Valerie to the Executive Director of our daughter's school and friends/colleagues who are in need of speech therapy services.
  • Avatar Heather Liljengren ★★★★★ a year ago
    We cannot say enough good things about Effie, the ASL teacher, who was so engaged and effective with our 2 year old daughter from the very first session! Effie gladly included our whole family in the sessions! Her expertise and fantastic … More personality gave our daughter a way to communicate that she was so desperately seeking. The coordinators at Brooklyn Letters were so helpful and communicative…I would highly recommend their services!
  • Avatar Chris duke Fields ★★★★★ a month ago
    The company is great with outstanding customer service. They keep my horses protected. I have recommended them to other horses trainers as well that are going to get service early next year. Very professional an honest too. Respectfully … More submitted Christopher
  • Avatar Nikhil Jaisinghani ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Ron and Ken did a fantastic job with our security system today. Installed everything very quick. Both of them were very polite and asked us throughout if the installation met our needs. Simply fantastic!
  • Avatar Linda Parsley ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    I called Cornerstone Protection to get a Security system at a relatives out of state property, within a week it was installed! The installers worked with the client to help understand her new system and she was happy! Our relative said … More they were courteous, professional and patient! I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection for all of your security needs!
  • Avatar Amanda Clay Mackin ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Had blink cameras; Car was broken into multiple times so I called CornerStone & they were able to install multiple cameras very quickly & for a reasonable price. I am so happy with the app & getting alerts that are not superfluous, … More like they were with Blink. Highly recommend CornerStone & the tech Ronnie.
  • Avatar Pete Peters ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Ron and Ken are great guys to work with.
    Both were very knowledgeable and got our system back up and running.
    Thanks to both for a job well done...
  • Avatar Brigid Bower ★★★★★ 11 months ago
    Samantha Dalmas was fantastic! We saw her for a feeding therapy evaluation and while she doesn’t think my daughter needs more feeding therapy sessions at this time, but she gave me lots of tips to try. If my daughter's doctors want … More to see more progress at her next appointment, I wouldn’t hesitate to reach out to Samantha again.
  • Avatar Larry Barton ★★★★★ a year ago
    Amazing assistance provided by Shannon today on my security system. I’m so grateful for your prompt, efficient, professional, and courteous service. Put me down as a customer for life!
  • Avatar Megan Haller ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    One of the most painless experiences I've had. They came on time and was over the moon professional with still keeping a level of personability to it. The gentleman also went out of his way to say that my husband and Mines business … More was appreciated. Which is actually rare to be appreciated by such a great company. So thank you and we look forward to continuing services with this company.
  • Avatar Megan Magsam ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I am so happy we decided to go with cornerstone. They were quick and efficient. Shannon and the installer we very friendly. We got a lot of equipment and it was still within our budget. 10/10 would definitely recommend! Thank you
  • Avatar Collins Youngblood ★★★★★ a year ago
    Love the customer service and Shanon and his team go above and beyond for my restaurant. Couldn't of asked for a better security system and level of service that his team provides.
  • Avatar kanu patel ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I have been using Cornerstone Protection service for over 5 years and I'm really happy with the service and state-of-the-art equipments and it's futures are so much in advance and friendly, I highly recommend Cornerstone Protection … More Service any and all business that need a security protection days and nights specially after business hours(Cornerstone Protection is perfect solution for your business). Owner of Cornerstone Protection is proactive with their customers and their equipments. Good experienced with Cornerstone Protection!!!
    Kanu Patel
  • Avatar Liz Jones ★★★★ 2 years ago
    We had a very positive experience with Alissa as a tutor for our pod of 5th grade boys from January - June 2020. She cared a lot about the boys and worked hard to create meaningful activities for them. The pod experience was invaluable … More for all of our families during a difficult year and we were so grateful to have found this partnership! We also want to appreciate Craig for helping to match us with a tutor on very short notice after we had cycled through a few folks who were not able to see the commitment through. Thanks for sticking with us!
  • Avatar S CL ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Dusty was the exact person we needed to help our child finish out the school year. So grateful to him for the way he steadily encouraged her and helped her stay on track and organized. He is flexible, responsive to our needs/schedule as … More a family, and a delight to be with. We are also thankful that Craig at Themba Tutors really "gets it" and partnered us with such a wonderful tutor who was a great fit for our girl.
  • Avatar Nicole May ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    My child worked with Gillian D virtually for math enrichment. She is an excellent teacher. She took time to understand my child's specific learning style and provided tools that would be engaging. She was kind and empathetic- really … More made it her goal to connect with my child and build trust and rapport. My child started the school year with confidence and without the typically "brain-drain" that occurs over the summer, thanks to Gillian.
  • Avatar Gillian Davidoff ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    I am going into my second year as a Themba tutor. I have met so many great individuals while working for this company. Craig and the rest of the Themba team do such an excellent job picking and choosing Themba tutors that suit each client's … More individual needs! I look forward to meeting new tutors and clients in the 2021-2022 school year!
  • Avatar carolina luttmann ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Our son started in a new high school, 100% remote, and was really struggling with Latin and Physics. I found Themba Tudors online and had an initial call with Craig, who was very knowledgeable, responsive, and found 2 amazing tutors for … More us. Both the Latin and the physics tutors were fantastic, connected with my son really well and helped him go from 'failing' grade to 'honors'! I will for sure continue using (and recommending!) Themba Tutors. Thank you, C, K, and W!
  • Avatar Eric Fingerman ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Brian is a fantastic executive functioning coach. Super helpful, flexible with hours, and tailored the experience to our needs.
  • Avatar Susan Wong ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    Giulia Mercuri is a great Italian tutor! She was very responsive and accessible. Giulia put a ton of effort into preparing for each session and really helped our son with test preparation and projects. We are grateful that she was able … More to help, especially since our son did not receive any live teaching during COVID. We are happy that she was referred to us!
  • Avatar Christine Gennetti ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    As an adult student diagnosed with a learning disability during grad school, I knew I needed help dealing with my Master's program's demanding workload. I was seriously considering dropping out when I was referred to Themba Tutors. … More I was paired up with a wonderful tutor, Julie, who was a total lifesaver. I learned many techniques that I can utilize in the future as I embark on the next phase of my career.
    I can wholeheartedly say after working with Themba for two years that I would not have finished my program without this organization. And I am so thankful I selected them.
  • Avatar Fabiola FITZPATRICK ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    We were introduced to a wonderful tutor: Mcedwyn. He and our son, a freshman in college, worked well together. As a result, our son’s grades significantly improved. The tutor taught our son subject content and various methods to effectively … More study for quizzes and exams. Our son was also taught time management and organization. My son’s experience with the tutor made the first year of college a less intimidating experience.
  • Avatar Jude Eugene ★★★★★ 3 years ago
    We have been with our tutor, Cailin Schiller, for two years, from 5th - 7th grade. She started as an executive functioning tutor with my daughter. From the start, she demonstrated a depth of expertise and a selective use of techniques skillfully … More adapted to my daughter’s ADHD and Math disability. Cailin made Math accessible and understandable to her in a way that even her teachers had not been able to do. She differentiated reading, writing and math tasks and assignments to tailor them to my daughter’s unique learning differences. Not only did it have an effect on her grades and her work efficiency, but she finally could do her work with less anxiety. Even my daughter’s teachers used Cailin’s guidance to modify their work with her. But most importantly, she became my daughter’s favorite resource. I can’t say how invaluable Cailin has been to my daughter’s progress and well-being. I’d recommend her a million times over. She is a gem.
  • Avatar Janice Eidus ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Victoria is a superb tutor. She helped my high school age daughter with her writing. Victoria's skills as a tutor, as well as her sense of humor and her engaging personality went a long way with my daughter.
  • A Google User ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
  • Avatar Fara Jones ★★★★★ 5 years ago
    Themba Tutors provided a leaning specialist that was a perfect fit for my daughter. I told them what we were looking for and they delivered. Our tutor is responsive and flexible and makes it easy for my daughter to reach out to her own … More her own, which gives her an added sense of responsibility over her learning. As a therapist myself, I now regularly recommend Themba to my patients. A much needed and well provided service to the community!!
  • Avatar Frances Simpson ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
  • Avatar Mary Jean Babic ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    I'm so glad we were referred to Themba Tutors. After a great initial conversation to learn our needs, we were connected with an excellent tutor, Felicia, who is helping our high school daughter learn better organizational and executive … More skills. Highly recommended.
  • Avatar Nina Herman ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    We had a wonderful experience with our tutor Micaela. She helped our son not only academically but at every level. We will be forever grateful to have her in our lives.
  • Avatar Frances ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    The tutors at Themba are fantastic! Caitlyn McNeill helped our son academically, but also with getting organized in every subject, which he so desperately needed. She offered great advice and useful strategies that helped our son become … More a more successful student. We are using Themba tutors again this year for our daughter. We're so happy to have been referred to them!
  • Avatar Michael Birnbaum ★★★★★ 4 years ago
    Paul Smith at Themba has been an exceptional tutor for my son, both in terms of teaching the subject matter and teaching how best to approach the process of learning math and executing assignments. We feel very fortunate to be working with … More Paul.
  • Avatar Monica Alzate ★★★★★ 5 years ago
    We were very lucky to have found Edwouine Swift, my son's therapist through Themba Tutors. Thomas is 12 years old, and it is extremely difficult to get him to write. Edwouine just works her magic with him, he adores her and is so … More eager to follow her guidance. I have no doubt she will be a positive driving force in his academic future.

Top Math Tutor in New York City

EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING SKILLS:

A Comprehensive Guide for the NYC Metro Area

executive function skills

Discover why Themba Tutors is the #1 choice for executive function coaching for K-12 (elementary, middle, and high school), college students, and adults in NYC and beyond.

Are you struggling with organization, time management, or focus in the fast-paced environment of New York City? You’re not alone. Executive functioning skills are the core mental abilities that help us navigate daily life, from planning our commute to meeting deadlines. For residents of the NYC Metro Area, mastering these skills is crucial for academic, professional, and personal success. If you’re looking for an executive function tutor or online executive function coaching, our comprehensive guide can help.

What is Executive Function Disorder (EFD) and Executive Dysfunction?

Executive Function Disorder (EFD), also referred to as executive dysfunction, is a condition where an individual has difficulty with the cognitive processes that help regulate, control, and manage thoughts and actions. Those with EFD may struggle with organization, time management, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and impulse control. While EFD is commonly associated with conditions such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and brain injuries, it can also occur in individuals without a formal diagnosis. Executive dysfunction can significantly impact academic performance, job responsibilities, social interactions, and daily living, especially in a demanding city like NYC.

The Importance of Executive Functioning Skills in NYC

Executive functioning skills are a set of higher-order cognitive processes that enable individuals to plan, organize, manage time, regulate emotions, and achieve long-term goals. These fundamental mental skills are vital for success in school, work, and personal life, influencing productivity, relationships, academic achievement, and overall well-being. They empower individuals to adapt to new challenges, make informed decisions, and maintain control over responsibilities. Strong EF skills for students and adults alike enhance problem-solving abilities and support effective communication, fostering independence and self-reliance, which are particularly valuable in the NYC Metro Area.

13 Key Executive Function Skills

Experts break down executive functioning into 13 distinct skills, each playing a crucial role in cognitive and emotional regulation:

Response Inhibition

The ability to pause and think before acting, which helps prevent impulsive behaviors. Individuals with strong response inhibition can consider the consequences of their actions before making decisions.

Signs of Issues:

  • Interrupting conversations frequently
  • Acting without considering consequences
  • Difficulty following rules
  • Impulsive spending or decision-making
  • Difficulty resisting temptations or distractions

Working Memory

The ability to hold and manipulate information for short-term use. This skill is crucial for problem-solving, following multi-step instructions, and remembering important details throughout the day.

Signs of Issues:

  • Forgetting instructions or details shortly after hearing them
  • Trouble remembering passwords or phone numbers
  • Losing track of conversations
  • Difficulty following multi-step directions

Emotional Control

Regulating emotions to support goal-directed behavior. Those with strong emotional control can manage frustration, disappointment, and stress without becoming overwhelmed.

Signs of Issues:

  • Frequent emotional outbursts
  • Difficulty calming down after frustration
  • Overreacting to small problems
  • Trouble adapting to criticism

Sustained Attention

The ability to stay focused on a task despite distractions, fatigue, or boredom. This skill is essential for completing projects, studying, and engaging in productive work.

Signs of Issues:

  • Easily distracted in meetings or lectures
  • Leaving tasks incomplete
  • Struggling to focus on reading or studying
  • Losing track of conversations

Task Initiation

The ability to start tasks efficiently without excessive procrastination. This skill helps individuals overcome hesitation and begin work in a timely manner.

Signs of Issues:

  • Procrastinating on work or school assignments
  • Avoiding difficult tasks
  • Struggling to begin writing essays or reports
  • Needing frequent external reminders to start work

Planning & Prioritization

The ability to set goals, outline steps, and determine the importance of tasks. Those who excel in this area can break down large projects into manageable parts.

Signs of Issues:

  • Struggling to break large projects into smaller steps
  • Focusing on unimportant tasks instead of deadlines
  • Becoming overwhelmed by multiple responsibilities
  • Difficulty organizing long-term goals

Organization

The ability to structure information and materials effectively. This skill includes keeping track of assignments, maintaining a tidy workspace, and managing resources efficiently.

Signs of Issues:

  • Constantly losing important items (keys, wallet, homework, etc.)
  • Having a cluttered workspace or home
  • Difficulty keeping track of assignments or bills
  • Struggling with digital organization (emails, files, notes)

Time Management

The skill of estimating time, meeting deadlines, and allocating appropriate time for various responsibilities. Good time management allows individuals to balance multiple tasks without feeling overwhelmed.

Signs of Issues:

  • Frequently running late
  • Underestimating or overestimating how long tasks will take
  • Missing deadlines at school or work
  • Struggling to balance multiple responsibilities

Goal-Directed Persistence

The ability to maintain effort toward a long-term goal despite challenges or setbacks. Individuals with this skill can stay committed to objectives even when progress is slow.

Signs of Issues:

  • Giving up easily when faced with difficulties
  • Struggling to stay motivated on long-term projects
  • Losing focus before completing important goals
  • Difficulty pushing through challenges without immediate rewards

Flexibility

The ability to adapt to new situations, shift strategies when needed, and find alternative solutions. Flexibility is crucial for navigating unexpected changes in work or personal life.

Signs of Issues:

  • Struggling with changes in routine
  • Becoming frustrated when plans change unexpectedly
  • Rigid thinking and difficulty considering alternative perspectives
  • Difficulty problem-solving when faced with obstacles

Metacognition

The capacity to reflect on one’s own thinking, behavior, and performance. This skill enables individuals to assess their progress and make necessary adjustments to improve efficiency.

Signs of Issues:

  • Difficulty assessing one’s own strengths and weaknesses
  • Failing to recognize when a strategy isn’t working
  • Struggling to learn from past mistakes
  • Over- or underestimating personal abilities

Stress Tolerance

The ability to function well under pressure and manage frustration effectively. Those with strong stress tolerance can navigate high-pressure situations without becoming overwhelmed.

Signs of Issues:

  • Feeling overwhelmed by minor stressors
  • Struggling to cope with unexpected challenges
  • Avoiding situations perceived as stressful
  • Experiencing physical symptoms of stress frequently (headaches, stomach issues, etc.)

Self-Monitoring

The ability to recognize and adjust one’s behavior to meet expectations. This skill allows individuals to self-correct and evaluate their actions in real time.

Signs of Issues:

  • Speaking too loudly or too quietly in different settings
  • Struggling to recognize when a behavior is inappropriate
  • Difficulty adjusting behavior in professional or social situations
  • Failing to notice when a task is incomplete or incorrect

These difficulties can interfere with school, work, and social interactions, leading to increased frustration and reduced productivity in the NYC Metro Area.

Executive Function Skills
JOYA K.
JOYA

Master’s in Educational Psychology

ALEX F.
ALEX F.

M.S. Occupational Therapy

EMILY
EMILY

Master’s in Education

CAMERON
CAMERON

Master’s Degree in Psychology

Executive Function Skills
DAVID K.

Masters in Special Education and Trained in Orton-Gillingham

Executive Function Skills
ALISSA

M.S. in Adolescent Special Education

DAVID W.
DAVID W.

Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy, Master of Educational Leadership

The Impact of Executive Dysfunction in the NYC Metro Area

When executive functioning skills are impaired, individuals may struggle with managing daily tasks and responsibilities, leading to executive dysfunction. This condition affects academic performance, career growth, and personal relationships. Executive dysfunction is often associated with conditions such as:

Executive Dysfunction Across Life Stages in NYC:

School-Age Students in NYC

Students with executive dysfunction in NYC face unique challenges due to the city’s fast-paced academic expectations. They may struggle to keep up with homework assignments, follow multi-step directions, and maintain focus in highly stimulating environments. Organizing school materials and remembering due dates can be difficult, leading to stress and frustration. Transitions between school and extracurricular activities can also be overwhelming, impacting social relationships and self-esteem. Explore our in-home and remote executive function coaching for school-age students in NYC.

College Students in NYC

For college students, executive dysfunction can make independent living particularly challenging. Managing class schedules, meeting deadlines, and balancing academic and personal responsibilities can feel overwhelming. Many struggle with procrastination, missing assignments, or forgetting important deadlines. Budgeting, maintaining a clean dorm or apartment, and keeping track of transportation schedules can also become significant challenges in a city where organization is crucial for success. Learn more about our coaching services for college students.

Adults in the NYC Workplace

In the workplace, adults with executive dysfunction may find it difficult to meet deadlines, prioritize tasks, and maintain productivity. Managing finances, paying bills on time, and staying organized at home can be overwhelming. Navigating NYC’s fast-paced environment—including commuting, scheduling appointments, and handling daily responsibilities—can increase stress levels. Social relationships may also be affected due to difficulties with emotional regulation and time management. For adults struggling with these challenges, our personalized coaching for adults can help.

Effective Strategies to Improve Executive Functioning Skills in NYC

Organizational Techniques

  • Use planners, calendars, and apps like Google Calendar, Todoist, or Notion for tracking deadlines and schedules.
  • Develop a checklist system for daily, weekly, and monthly responsibilities.
  • Color-code notes and files to make organization easier.

Time Management Strategies

  • Set specific time blocks for tasks to improve efficiency.
  • Use alarms or timers to stay on schedule.
  • Apply the Pomodoro Technique (25-minute work sessions with short breaks).

Emotional Regulation and Stress Management

  • Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or guided imagery.
  • Engage in regular physical activity to enhance focus and relieve stress.
  • Seek therapy or counseling to develop emotional regulation techniques.

Building Cognitive Flexibility

  • Challenge yourself with problem-solving exercises like brain teasers and puzzles.
  • Engage in new activities to strengthen adaptability, such as learning a language or playing an instrument.
  • Practice responding to unexpected changes positively by reframing challenges as opportunities.

Ready to take control of your executive functioning skills? Themba Tutors offers personalized coaching and support for individuals in the NYC Metro Area. Learn how our expert tutors can help you excel!

executive function skills

Our Executive Functioning and ADHD Coaching Services

  • ADHD Coaching: We offer targeted coaching for individuals with ADHD to develop strategies for focus, impulse control, and organization.

For students with learning differences or ADHD, we also offer NYC Special Needs Tutoring.

Conclusion: Empowering Executive Function Skills in the NYC Metro Area

Executive functioning skills are critical for success in school, work, and personal life, especially within the dynamic environment of NYC. When these skills are underdeveloped or impaired, individuals may struggle with organization, time management, emotional regulation, and problem-solving. Fortunately, the NYC Metro Area offers numerous resources—from educational support and therapy to workplace accommodations and expert coaching—that can help individuals develop and strengthen these abilities. With the right strategies and professional guidance, individuals can significantly improve their executive functioning skills and enhance their overall quality of life.

Need Help Strengthening Executive Functioning Skills in NYC?

Struggling with organization, time management, or focus? Themba Tutors specializes in executive function coaching for students and adults in the NYC Metro Area. Our expert tutors provide personalized, one-on-one support to help you improve planning, problem-solving, and productivity.

Take control of your learning and daily responsibilities with proven strategies tailored to your needs. Contact Themba Tutors today to get started on your path to success!

FAQs

  1. What are executive functioning skills? They’re the mental skills that help you stay organized, manage time, plan ahead, and control impulses. Think of them as the brain’s “manager,” helping you juggle tasks, focus, and follow through on goals.
  2. What is executive dysfunction? It’s when these skills don’t work as smoothly, making things like time management, organization, and impulse control more challenging. It’s common in ADHD, autism, and brain injuries, but anyone can struggle with it.
  3. How do I know if I have executive function issues? If you constantly lose track of tasks, struggle with deadlines, or feel overwhelmed by planning, you might have executive function difficulties. A simple self-assessment or consultation with a professional can help.
  4. Can executive function skills improve? Yes! With the right strategies—like using planners, setting reminders, and practicing self-monitoring—and consistent effort, you can absolutely build stronger executive functioning skills.
  5. How can coaching help with executive dysfunction? Executive function coaching provides personalized strategies and practical tools to improve organization, focus, and self-regulation. It’s highly effective for students, professionals, and anyone struggling with daily tasks.
  6. Who can benefit from executive function coaching in NYC? Anyone! Kids, teens, college students, and adults in the NYC Metro Area who struggle with time management, organization, focus, or motivation can all benefit from targeted executive function support.
  7. Where can I find executive function support in NYC? Themba Tutors offers expert, one-on-one online executive function coaching in NYC. We help students and adults develop personalized strategies to improve organization, focus, and productivity, right here in the NYC Metro Area.