Top 5 Executive Function Aids to Pack for College
You’ve probably seen listicles all over the place about what to pack for college. From linens to microwaves, specialty stores, big box stores and even the colleges themselves have you covered. But what’s on your packing list for Executive Function skills support? We’ve got some ideas to share:
1. Alarm system
No, not a burgler alarm to alert you to dorm room break-ins (although, hmmm….). We’re talking about a failsafe wake-up alarm. And while what that looks like depends on your needs, getting to class on time and, by extension, waking up independently is essential to set you up for success. In fact, some colleges will automatically drop you if you miss more than a certain number of classes. So, think beyond the iPhone. Position an old-fashioned alarm clock across the room, where you need to get up to shut it. Or try an alarm that wakes you up with light or vibration if you sleep like the dead. Here are some examples:
Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clock
2. Seven-Day Pill Box
Taking prescribed medication consistently is another essential element of college success, particularly for students with ADHD. Remembering whether or not you’ve taken your medication can be challenging for anyone, but especially so for those with Executive Dysfunction. Measuring out medication each week into a seven-day pillbox not only helps to keep track of daily doses, but also makes it easier to recognize when you need to refill your prescription. This is sometimes hard to do when taking pills daily out of a bottle. Parents can work with your young adults in advance to automatically call home (or better yet, the pharmacy) when they find they are down to a certain number of pills left in the bottle. We like this pill box, because it has organizers for both AM and PM medication each day:
Amazon Basic Care AM/PM Pill Organizer
3. Air Tags
Need we say more? Apple air tags are a great way to keep track of keys, wallets, luggage, or anything that might get misplaced.
4. Charging Station
Nothing is worse than needing your phone, tablet, or other electronic device, only to discover you forgot to charge it. A multi-device charging station can help serve as a visual reminder each day or night to plug in your devices and recharge. This one has specific places for Apple watches and airpods, as well as Apple and Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets and Kindle devices:
6 in 1 Wireless Charging Station
5. Desk Organizer
Sure, most papers will be written and submitted electronically. But that doesn’t mean college classes are paper-free. Just like the homework station that you have set up at home (right??), it’s important to have a place in the dorm room where you can easily find and access supplies and important papers. We like this one from Walmart. Although a little pricey, it has room to store textbooks and a drawer to keep loose papers safe and out of the way:
With a little pre-planning and a few clicks, you can head off to college prepared to tackle those organizational challenges and set yourself up for a successful semester.