It seems like summer just started and here we are gearing up for ''back to school''! I am never happy when the time comes to start thinking about schedules and early rising. The pressure of homework and assignments seems overwhelming at this time of year when everyone is just getting into the swing of no routine.
I have learned over the years that being organized eases the pain of getting back on schedule. Preparing the house for back to school is an important part of getting the children ready for the transition. Start with their bedrooms and make sure that both student and parent are in agreement about where homework is going to be done. I have one child who insists that he works much better in front of the television. He has a desk set up in his room but refuses to work there so we have reached a compromise and he is allowed to do his homework at the kitchen table, without the television on but with the buzz of daily life going on around him. I have another who prefers the peace and quiet of his bedroom so establishing a work station in his room has been crucial for him.
A good work station should include open desk space for working, storage space for supplies a bulletin board and calendar to keep track of upcoming assignments and important dates. A student needs to take ownership of his or her tasks so that they process them and have them stored in their own heads, not their parents so even for the child who works better at the kitchen table we have a calendar and bulletin board set up in his personal space so that he can keep track of his tasks.
It is a chore to organize the mudroom and family space to incorporate day to day needs of students. There should be a place where important school letters and documents are stored so that when a child comes home with a trip permit a parent knows where to find it. Upcoming event information, schedules etc… should all be located in one place so that each family member knows where to access the information.
Baskets, labeled, with names on them serve as excellent storage bins and work well tucked in closets or on simple shelving in a back hall. Check out Michaels Arts and Crafts store for square baskets, tie a label on a ribbon and attach it to the basket.
One drawer in the kitchen, fitted with a file adapter from Staples Business Depot, will hold documents nicely.
A white board calendar allows for schedule changes.
Take a day and spend it with the kids to prepare their space and family space to start this school year with ease, getting things clearly set-up before the rush of the fall is in full swing will make for a smooth transition from summer’s ease to fall’s frenzy.
Mary Taggart
Write to me and share your ideas and suggestions about home renovation, decorating and more!
