Strategize Organize LLC
Newsletter Volume 4, Issue 11
School: It's Going to be Different this Year, Right?!
Background
Does this scenario sound familiar? School starts and your child is so excited to have a new backpack and new pencils, notebooks, and folders. Everything is crisp and ready to go, but by the end of September the excitement is gone. The backpack is filled with who knows what, the notebook pages are written on and the folders are either empty or overflowing with miscellaneous papers. According to your child’s teacher, homework and assignments aren’t being turned in. You think, “Oh no, here we go again.”
Solutions
At a calm time of day explain to your child that you would like to talk about organizing their school supplies. Come up with a time when both you and your child will have energy for a conversation.
Here are some topics and questions you might want to cover during the conversation:
1. Identify the purpose of each item needed for school and label it.
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For example, this folder is for ____________. This notebook is for___________. This section of the binder is for______________.
2. Create a home for everything and a process by which it is clear how the items leave and come back home. Items that need homes might include:
For classes:
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homework
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notes
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handouts
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tests
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planner/assignment book
Locker
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books
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backpack
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coats
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notebooks
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lunch bag
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gym clothes
3. Plan the journey through the school day.
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What should travel with them during each part of the day?
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Based on the location of their classes, how and when will they be able to switch books in and out of their locker?
Summary
Some kids just know how to be organized and some kids need a bit of help. Organization is essential for success but it isn’t generally taught in school. Now is the time to help kids who struggle with this issue and give them a skill they’ll be thankful for the rest of their lives.
Susan
One note -
My next TV segment, “Organizing and Recycling in the Garage”, has come out. I will post it on to my website by Saturday. If over the Labor Day weekend you need to labor in your garage, perhaps this 13 minute show will help motivate you. ;)
You can find my website at http://www.strategizeorganize.com
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