The Executive Function Playbook in Action: Activities and Exercises to Support Kids with ADHD

by Michael McLeod

Genres: Parenting

352 pages, Paperback

Published January 13, 2026

Reviews

[Michael Brzezowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a public school teacher in a PreK–8 school, we see many students struggling with executive function. We’ve tried social groups and other supports, but they often don’t transfer beyond that setting—and sometimes even create dependence on adult support.

I found The Executive Function Playbook in Action after listening to Mike McLeod and Ryan Wexelblatt on the ADHD Parenting Podcast. What started as a quick recommendation turned into an 8-teacher book club at our school.

This book stands out because it’s practical. It goes beyond theory and provides clear, ready-to-use activities that we can implement immediately. It’s also noticeably more robust than the companion book, with a strong focus on what to actually do with students.

We’ve already started using the activities and are seeing real results. Teachers feel more confident, and students are responding.

We still have work to do—especially around parent education—but this has been a strong and actionable starting point.

Highly recommend for teachers, administrators, and parents looking for real strategies that work.

[Alexandra Rentz]

Great book! The Executive Function Playbook in Action by Michael McLeod is a practical, hands-on resource full of activities and exercises to help kids with ADHD strengthen executive functioning skills. It focuses on developing internal skills like self-regulation, planning, and emotional control, rather than relying solely on external reminders. The step-by-step exercises are easy to use for parents, teachers, or coaches, making it a very actionable workbook. I especially appreciate its emphasis on fostering independence, helping kids internalize strategies instead of just being prompted. Overall, it’s a thoughtful and practical guide for anyone supporting children in building real-life executive function skills.

[Nicholas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Executive Function Playbook in Action is the perfect companion to the original, turning powerful concepts into real, usable tools. Michael McLeod takes everything he teaches about executive functioning and brings it to life through practical activities and exercises that parents, educators, and counselors can immediately apply. This isn’t theoretical, it’s hands-on, structured, and designed to help kids build self-awareness, self-regulation, and independence over time. If the first book helps you understand the “why,” this one gives you the “how,” making it an incredibly valuable resource for anyone supporting a child with ADHD.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is HANDS DOWN the best book about EF & ADHD. As a 5th grade teacher, and a father to an ADHD teenager, I cannot recommend this book enough. Michael McLeod knows his stuff! The tips and strategies are practical and make so much sense!

[Ginny Yurich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal workbook!! So many wonderful and practical ideas. I may even try some for myself.