Are you looking for ways to help your student or child become more organized? Check out these 7 ways you can consider to help them be organized for school!
- Use a pencil box or pouch to store your pens, pencils, gluesticks, highlighters, etc. This ensures that all of these items are kept together in a container that is easy to carry with you in your backpack or leave in your locker at the end of the day!
- Tidy up your locker by stacking books, folders, and binders neatly. Use the hooks to hang up your jacket or gym clothes. Before you leave for the day, take a few minutes to tidy everything up – this will help you start the next day off on the right foot!
- Keep your desk organized by using your pencil pouch/box for loose items and stacking your notepads and books in an orderly manner. Be sure to clean out trash each day so things don’t accumulate.
- Manage your backpack so it doesn’t become a dumping ground for miscellaneous items. Each night before you go to bed, make sure all of your books, notepads, binders, pencil pouch, etc. are packed into your backpack. This will save you time trying to locate everything in the morning. Also empty it of any trash or crumpled papers so you have a clean, tidy bag for school.
- Try using a planner or calendar to track assignment due dates, testing days, and any activities you have after school. Create checklists in your planner to ensure you’re staying on track!
- Some students benefit from color-coding their school materials based on subject or class period.
- Pick out your clothes and pack your sports/gym bag the night before. This will save you time in the morning so you can be ready to go more quickly!
When you’re starting out, pick one or two of the items from these tips. Starting small can prevent your child from getting too overwhelmed or stressed out. Organization is supposed to make things easier and less stressful!
Once you have tried a few different organization methods, start to talk with your child about what works best for them and keep those methods going!
The special education resources on this page were authored by Watson Institute’s special education consultant, Andee Morris, M.Ed.
Social Skills Power Point Presentations:
I Can Get Organized Facilitator’s Guide
I Can Get Organized Power Point Presentation
Social Skills Resource Materials:
I Can Get Organized Parent Note
I Can Get Organized Teacher Note