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Stay Organized for a Successful School Year
Fall means crisp air, bright leaves, cheery pumpkins, and back to school, but this school year is going to look very different for many families.
Many school districts have opted for a hybrid model of instruction: a combination of in-person and virtual classes. J. Alvin Wilbanks, the Superintendent of our own local Gwinnett County Public School System stated the following, “We have important work to do and I am confident it can be done effectively, enthusiastically, and safely through our collective determination. Thank you for being part of the solution, and for all you do for Gwinnett’s children.” It seems like hybrid instruction is here to stay…for awhile, so how is the best way to keep your family organized?
Tip #1 | Create a dedicated space
Choose a dedicated ‘school’ space in your home. If space permits, dedicate one wall of a room with a long table or desk that can house your childrens’ devices, assignments, and supplies. If space is limited, consider a folding table or using the family dining table but be sure to store all school items in a basket, tote bin, or bookshelf at the end of each day so that these items do not get misplaced.
Tip #2 | Maximize Efficiency by taking advantage of vertical spaces
Use vertical wall space to hang shelves or hooks to hold bags for each subject. A pocket organizer can be hung on the back of a door and many can be configured to hold supplies, books, and assignments. Many closet organizers can be helpful at maximizing vertical space and are often inexpensive.
Tip #3 | Use visual aids
Use a large format dry erase calendar or chart to help everyone stay on track of both schedules and assignments. Hang posters and other visual items that would usually be found in your child’s classroom, think alphabet, multiplication tables, world map, etc. Color is also incredibly helpful in staying organized. Consider dedicating a different color to each class and keeping all materials in the assigned color binder or writing assignments in that color on the calendar.
Tip #4 | Stick to a routine
Life is easier when we know what to expect! Adults and children alike thrive with routine. Empower your children on virtual days by ensuring that their morning routine is the same as the days when they travel to school. At the end of their virtual school day, have them pack up their workstation just like they would do with the desk in their classroom–this ensures that everything is returned to its place, is easily found the next day, and saves you time from tidying up in the evening.
Tip #5 | Headphones
Headphones are so helpful if you are a parent working at home, have other children attending virtual schooling on the same days, or even need to help a kiddo from being distracted. Consider purchasing a pair that goes over the ear like a cup instead of the earbud style; they are more comfortable for long periods of use. Keep a basket on your child’s workstation for the headphones to be stored and clean them frequently.
Tip #6 | Get everyone involved
Get the whole family involved when creating a work space within your home. Children can help select and organize supplies, apply labels to containers, and fill different colored binders with paper and sheet protectors. This helps your children learn where everything belongs and gives them a sense of ownership and prior in their area. Parents should also try to collaborate and share school responsibilities so that children understand that staying organized is a whole-family effort.
Tip #7 | Get healthy
Just because school and work may look different doesn’t mean that we have to forego healthy habits. Make sure that you and your family take frequent breaks for physical activity–a walk around the neighborhood, raking leaves, small chores, or even a bike ride. These breaks not only help our bodies stay in-shape but also give our minds a rest too! Don’t forget that healthy eating is also important. The temptation to grab prepackaged convenience foods or over indulge can be strong when we are working and learning from home. Make healthy choices easy with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, crackers, cheese, and water. Hydration is also critical in maintaining focus and overall health. When students (and adults too) are well hydrated and fed, they are more likely to work efficiently, stay focused, and get better grades….Yay!
So, while you tackle the school year and piles of leaves alike, remember what Superintendent Wilbanks said: we have important work to do and can be part of the solution.
Best wishes for a terrific school year and STAY ORGANIZED!
