It’s that time of year again, and although it can be exciting getting your kids ready for a new school year, it can also be stressful trying to teach them how to be organized. Developing good organizational skills is a key ingredient for success in school and in life. Some people are naturally more organized than others, but almost everyone can learn some strategies for getting -and staying- organized in North Scottsdale Homes for Sale.
1. Use Checklists
Help your child get into the habit of keeping a “to-do” list. Use checklists to post assignments, household chores, and reminders about what materials to bring to class. Keeping a notebook with these checklists and crossing them off when completed will give them encouragement when they see what they have accomplished. Another way to do this is to have dry erase or bulletin board placed somewhere it can be seen. This is a great reminder for your child.
2. Organize homework assignments
Before beginning homework for the day, have your child number them in the order in which they should be done. Start with one that is not too difficult, but don’t leave the hardest one for last. This gives your child a sense of accomplishment when he sees what he has completed.
3. Designate a study space
Your child should have a place to study and they should only study in this same space every day. It does not have to be in a bedroom, but it should be a quiet place with few distractions. Have all materials they will need nearby. For younger children, make it a place that is near a parent or someone who can help when needed.
4. Set designated time
If possible, your child should know that there is a certain time each day they have to do their homework or studying. It’s nice if you can let your child unwind a little bit right after school before starting homework. If your child participates in after school activities and their schedule varies, at least be sure they know it will be right after they eat their dinner, for example.
5. Keep notebooks organized
Help your child keep track of papers by organizing them in a notebook or binder. Most teachers require binders, but it is up to the student to use them what they were made for-to stay organized. Color code,use dividers, separate “to-do” from “done”. Keep a separate folder for items that need to be signed by parents or important notices your student receives from school. Most schools are online now and you can check homework assignments, grades and almost any school related information simply by logging in. This is a great tool for your student. Use it.
6. Keep a master calendar
If possible, keep a large calendar in a place that is easy to see (the kitchen, for example) with a list of daily activities, family commitments, days off from school, and major events at home or school. This will help the whole family coordinate schedules and keep track of each other’s activities.
7. Provide support while your child is learning to become more organized
Becoming more organized is a learning process, and it takes time. It takes some work on your part, but if you are consistent and set a good example, your child will have learned a life skill that is invaluable and will ensure success for the rest of their life.
