Navigating Homework Battles, Understanding Executive Function & Helping Teens Succeed :: Dr. Matthew Housson [Ep 568]

About this episode

Dr. Matthew Housson discusses the challenges of homework and executive function in children and teens, providing insights and strategies for parents.

Why does homework and school in general turn into a battle in so many homes? In this insightful conversation, Dr. Matthew Housson breaks down what’s really going on when kids struggle with homework—and why it’s often not a discipline issue at all. Instead, many challenges come down to executive function skills —things like planning, focus, emotional regulation, and the ability to start and finish tasks. We talk about how brain development impacts motivation, why some kids struggle to shift into “low dopamine” tasks like homework, and what parents can do to support their child without taking over . If you’ve ever felt frustrated, confused, or even discouraged trying to help your child succeed academically, this episode will give you clarity, practical tools, and encouragement—you’re not alone, and there is a better way forward. In this episode we talk about: When behavior is developmentally normal vs. when to seek help The key signs of depression in teens (including irritability) Why a full profile is often more helpful than a diagnosis Practical tools to make homework time smoother Executive function skills are learned and developed over time You can’t rush development—but you…

People in this episode

Guest: Dr. Matthew Housson

Topics covered

• homework challenges
• executive function
• teen success
• parenting strategies
• brain development
• emotional regulation

Keywords

• homework battles
• executive function skills
• teen depression
• parenting tools
• motivation
• emotional regulation

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Housson Center

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