How to Get Children Organized in School

Get Organized for School

Organization is a key component in helping children become successful learners. When kids are at school, they are relatively independent, and must function on their own in order to complete daily tasks. School is essentially their place of work where success or failure is determined by their ability to stay organized, focused and on task. There are some methods that will help to get children organized at home and in school to create a more productive learning environment.

Instructions

1. Prepare pencils, paper and notebooks nightly for the following days work in school. Children should go into school with at least 5 sharpened pencils in a pocket carrying case or separate backpack section in order to be prepared for school. Notebooks should also be cleaned of loose papers nightly and organized according to subject. Parents should check to see sufficient papers are in notebooks every day and encourage their children to do so as well.

2. Have children put any notes from the teachers, agendas, report cards, behavior charts or papers that need signing in a specific place when they come home from school. You might have a bin by the front door for their backpack and a tray where they can put daily papers. Read, sign and return papers every day to ensure children are keeping up with assignments as needed.

3. Encourage children to check the teacher or school website for updates, homework or grades so they can stay on top of their studies. Many teachers have websites with resources to help students practice specific skills. Schools often have grades posted on a site where parents and children can both access this information as well. Ask your child to check daily to make sure they are completing all assignments.

4. Create an all in one notebook with a 2 to 3 inch binder. Put in some plastic report sleeves to hold papers they might need everyday such as homework and reading logs. Place their agenda in the folder as well. Use a hole puncher to punch holes in any loose material that will not fit into the plastic sleeves and place in the binder as well.

5. Email your child's teacher and ask if it is ok for your child to send an email if they require information about a task they may not understand. In addition, have your child choose at least three friends from class and get their phone numbers and email addresses in case of forgotten homework or sick days.

6. Get your child a backpack with multiple pockets and have a place for everything. Label pockets using stickers or other labels to help them remember where to keep things. Have your child clean their backpack thoroughly once per week or more to stay organized. Ask your child's teacher how often they clean their desks at school as well. It is essential to have a clutter free work area for optimal learning.

7. Tell your child to copy their homework down in their agenda or a specific place in the folder daily so they will not get behind in their work. Check homework daily and look for any notes from the teacher.

References

• Ohio Department of Education
• Middle School News