Operation Organized: Getting Your Students Ready For School

Community Manager — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:41:00 GMT

It's back-to-school time. Reading, writing and arithmetic may be the main curriculum, but the back-to-school season provides an opportunity to teach your student another crucial life skill: how to get organized.

Organization ABCs

Set up a Study Space: Designate an area just for study; keep homework supplies handy in a box or bin.

Crack the Color Code: Introduce the concept of color coding, buying folders, notebooks and binders in different colors for different subjects.

Create a Command Cubby: Children should have a designated crate or box near the front door for offloading their backpacks and key school items.

Calendar: Buy your child a portable calendar or planner. Teach her how to write down assignments, test dates and other important happenings. Have her keep track of classmates' e-mails and phone information here.

Lead by Example: Keep things neat and organized in your own life; children learn by observing. Show them how you make and use to-do lists. Demonstrate how you tackle chores such as bill paying before you reward yourself with a book or TV show. Model efficiency and productive work habits and you'll soon see those traits in your children.

For more tips for getting your kids organized for school read Help Your Child Get Organized and Ten Ways to Help Your Child Get Organized.

How do you help your children get organized for school? Share your thoughts here and on the Beyond Folders Community's Facebook and Twitter pages.

by Bradley Eggers

Beyond Folders : school work, organizing tips for children

Operation Organized: Getting Your Students Ready For School