5 Organizational Tips for Back to School
Believe it or not, the new school year is right around the corner! It is time to start preparing for the transition from laid back summer days to new routines and schedules.
Include your children in the preparing process of heading back to school. Host a family meeting to create a plan of what needs to get accomplished in the upcoming weeks. (Upcoming appointments, school supplies, meal planning)
Invest in a physical calendar. Whether it is paper, whiteboard, or digital, post a calendar that the entire family can see. Start writing down upcoming events. It is really important for kids of all ages to see a month at a glance.
Make a checklist for all school supplies needed for the school year. Schools typically provide a list of recommended school supplies. Take inventory of what you have FIRST. No need to spend more money on what you already have. Be sure to take your list (and your children) with you when you go shopping. Each child should be responsible for shopping for his/her own supplies. Create a place near where your children do their homework, to store all the school supplies.
Establish a system for school papers and artwork. Artwork and papers can quickly flood an entire surface. Set up your system before the first day of school. Not every piece of paper can or should be kept that arrives home from school. Set up a bulletin board or a special place in your home to celebrate each week's best work. Either toss the rest, file what is important, or store the work in a tub that will need to be purged at the end of the year. Consider taking a picture of the artwork or school projects. A good rule of thumb is to keep no more than 10 pieces that best represent that year.
Organize the backpack, work area, and bedroom before school starts! Avoid waiting until the last minute to get organized. Set a timer for 30 minutes once a day to get organized before school and afternoon activities start back up. Pick up trash around the room, purge clothes that you no longer wear, or clean off the top of your desk. Beginning a new school year with a fresh approach can set the tone for a successful year.
If you and/or your child continues to feel overwhelmed, it may be time to call in a professional to help. www.simplicity-organizers.com 704.464.3713
