How to Get Organized in Kindergarten
Every teacher knows that organization is key to successfully managing a classroom. This is especially true for kindergarten classes in which teachers have to spend a great deal more one-on-one time working with each student. Parents also know that getting organized requires that you take the time to prepare at the start of the school year as well at the beginning of each day.
Instructions
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Organization for Teachers
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Create name tags for your students that include your name and classroom number as well. You can include an image of a cartoon character on your tags next to the text. Search online for free cartoon clip-art that you can print out on sticky paper or copy the clip-art and add it in a basic graphics program. Student name tags not only allow you to quickly become familiar with each child's name but also help the school's staff remember that child. This also helps children learn other student's names and how each one is spelled.
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Store materials electronically whenever its possible. Accomplish this by scanning the materials you want to save. It is also a good idea to have a backup copy of your grade-book or any other important documents like directives or letters from parents.
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Create work stations in your classroom with baskets or other storage containers. For example, place each new assignment in a green folder and have students place their finished work in a red folder.
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Create desk tags and other basic signs that will help students remember classroom rules as well as remind them of coming events, like a field trip. Use one word like "Please" to remind students to ask nicely for something he wants. The best approach is to use images in conjunction with simple text to teach your kindergartners to follow classroom rules.
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Place baskets or bins around the room that encourage students to help with cleanup. These baskets can be labeled with the names of materials you use during the day, including "Books," "Extra Paper" and "Pencils."
Organization for Parents
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Make a list well before school starts of the things your child will need, including clothing, books, craft supplies and other items. The school should be able to supply you with a list.
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Contact the teacher to see if you can arrange a visit to the classroom with your child before class begins so she can get accustomed to it.
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Create a daily checklist that you hang near the door with a list of items your child will need, like books and snacks. Make sure your child has everything he needs before he leaves.
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Hang a small calendar next to the checklist showing special events that you might have to prepare for, such as a field trip to the zoo or a picnic. This would also be a good place to record scheduled meetings with the teacher or other events you need to attend.
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Make time to talk every evening about what happened at school that day. Ask your child if she has any homework or any upcoming activities that you can help her prepare for. Check in her bag to see if her teacher has sent home any notes about upcoming events.
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References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
