Teaching Children How to Get Organised:
- Deirdre Ridden
- Jun 12, 2024
- 15 min read
Updated: Oct 7, 2024
Why is it important to teach our children organisational skills? Teaching children how to get organised not only helps them manage their day-to-day tasks but also equips them with lifelong skills that build confidence, foster independence, and lay the foundation for a successful future.
Tips for Successful Routines
Consistency is Key: Stick to the routines as closely as possible. Predictability helps children feel secure and understand expectations.
Flexibility: Be flexible when needed. Life can be unpredictable, so it’s okay to adjust the routine occasionally.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for following the routine. Positive reinforcement encourages them to stick with it.
Lead by Example: Model good behaviour by following your own routines. Children often imitate the habits they observe in their parents.
Establishing consistent morning and evening routines is essential for teaching children how to get organised and helping them to develop healthy habits. By setting specific wake-up and bedtimes, creating structured tasks, and preparing for the next day, you can ensure your child has a smooth and productive start and end to their day. With patience and consistency, these routines will become a natural part of their daily life, leading to improved organisation and overall well-being. Organisation skills foster responsibility, time management, and independence. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help your child get organised both at home and at school.
At Home
Morning Routines
Set a Consistent Wake-Up Time
Consistency: Choose a wake-up time that works for your child and stick to it, even on weekends. This helps regulate their internal clock.
Gradual Adjustments: If you need to change their wake-up time, do it gradually by adjusting it by 10-15 minutes each day.
Morning Tasks
Brushing Teeth: Encourage them to brush their teeth first thing in the morning. This can be paired with washing their face to help them wake up.
Getting Dressed: Lay out clothes the night before to streamline the process. For younger children, involve them in choosing their outfits to foster independence.
Eating Breakfast: Ensure they have a nutritious breakfast to fuel their day. Options like oatmeal, yogurt with fruit, or whole-grain toast are quick and healthy.
Visual Schedule
Charts and Lists: Use visual aids like charts with pictures for younger children or written lists for older ones to outline the morning routine. Display this schedule in a prominent place, such as on the fridge or in their bedroom.
Implementing Chore Charts for Children
Chore charts are an excellent way to teach children responsibility, time management, and the importance of contributing to household tasks, and can help to teach the children how to get organised, in a fun and rewarding way. By assigning age-appropriate chores and using reward systems, you can motivate your child and help them develop valuable life skills. Here’s how to effectively implement chore charts in your home.
If you want help setting up these strategies click on the link below to check out a variety of chore charts that are completely editable.
Age-Appropriate Tasks
Chores for Younger Children (Ages 3-7)
Simple Tasks: Young children can handle simple tasks that help them learn about responsibility. Examples include:
Picking up toys and putting them away
Making their bed
Putting dirty clothes in the laundry basket
Setting the table for meals
Watering plants
Chores for Older Children (Ages 8-12)
More Responsibility: As children grow, they can take on more complex chores. Examples include:
Helping with dishes (loading/unloading the dishwasher, washing dishes)
Taking out the trash
Vacuuming and sweeping floors
Folding and putting away laundry
Preparing simple meals or snacks
Chores for Teenagers (Ages 13 and Up)
Increased Independence: Teenagers can manage more independent tasks that prepare them for adulthood. Examples include:
Mowing the lawn
Washing the car
Cooking full meals
Deep cleaning bathrooms and kitchens
Managing their own laundry
Creating the Chore Chart
Designing the Chart
Visual Appeal: Use colourful charts and stickers to make the chart visually appealing, especially for younger children.
Clear Sections: Divide the chart into sections for each day of the week and list assigned chores accordingly.
Personalisation: Involve your child in creating the chart. Let them decorate it and choose stickers or markers.
Assigning Chores
Rotation System: Rotate chores regularly to keep things interesting and ensure that all children learn a variety of tasks.
Clarity: Clearly define what each chore entails. For instance, "clean the bathroom" should include tasks like wiping surfaces, scrubbing the toilet, and mopping the floor.
Reward Systems
Types of Rewards
Stickers and Points: Younger children often respond well to stickers. Older children may prefer a point system where they accumulate points to exchange for rewards.
Small Rewards: Rewards can include extra screen time, a small treat, or a favourite activity. For teens, rewards might include later curfew on weekends or earning extra allowance.
Setting Up the System
Consistent Tracking: Track completed chores daily and add stickers or points to the chart.
Regular Review: Review the chart at the end of each week and provide rewards based on their performance. Ensure the rewards are attainable and meaningful.
Encouraging Responsibility
Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for completing their chores and for their effort. Positive reinforcement helps them feel good about their contributions.
Incremental Rewards: For larger rewards, set incremental goals. For instance, after earning a certain number of points, they can get a bigger reward, teaching them patience and goal-setting.
Tips for Success
Be Patient: It may take time for children to get used to their chores and the reward system. Be patient and offer gentle reminders.
Set Realistic Expectations: Ensure chores are manageable and consider your child’s age, abilities, and schedule.
Model Behaviour: Show your child how to do each task properly. Working alongside them initially can be very helpful.
Consistency is Key: Stick to the routine. Consistency helps children understand that chores are a regular responsibility.
Conclusion
Implementing chore charts with age-appropriate tasks and reward systems is an effective way to teach children responsibility and organisational skills. By making chores a regular part of their routine and rewarding their efforts, you help them develop a sense of accomplishment and independence. With clear expectations and consistent reinforcement, your child will learn to manage their tasks efficiently, benefiting the entire household and in the process teach your children how to get organised.
Teaching children how to get organised with Evening Routines
Evening Tasks
Homework Time: Designate a specific time for homework. Create a quiet, distraction-free environment to help them concentrate.
Creating an Effective Homework Station for Children
A dedicated homework station is vital for helping children focus and stay organised with their schoolwork. By providing a quiet, well-equipped space and establishing a consistent homework routine, you can foster an environment conducive to learning and productivity. Here’s how to set up an effective homework station and routine for your child.
Designated Homework Area
Choose the Right Location
Quiet and Distraction-Free: Select a location in your home that is free from distractions like television and heavy foot traffic. A quiet corner in the living room or a spot in their bedroom can work well.
Well-Lit Space: Ensure the area has good lighting. Natural light is ideal, but a good desk lamp can also provide adequate lighting for evening study sessions.
Equip with Necessary Supplies
Basic Supplies: Stock the station with essential items such as pencils, pens, erasers, paper, and a calculator. Having these supplies readily available prevents interruptions.
Organisational Tools: Use storage solutions like bins, drawers, or shelves to keep the area tidy. Label containers to make it easy for your child to find and put away items.
Technology Needs: If your child requires a computer or tablet for their homework, ensure it is set up in the homework station. Install necessary software and set up parental controls if needed.
Establishing a Homework Routine
Set a Specific Homework Time
Consistent Schedule: Choose a time each day dedicated to homework. This helps build a habit and ensures that homework is part of the daily routine. Adjust the time based on your child’s extracurricular activities and family schedule.
Flexible Timing: Allow some flexibility within the set timeframe to accommodate days when homework may take longer or when your child has other commitments.
Breaks and Focus
Structured Breaks: Encourage your child to take short breaks during homework sessions to avoid burnout. A good rule of thumb is a 5-10 minute break after every 20-30 minutes of focused work.
Active Breaks: Use breaks for physical activities like stretching or a quick walk. This helps refresh their mind and body, improving concentration for the next study period.
Creating a Positive Environment
Encourage Independence: Allow your child to work independently but be available for questions or support. This fosters self-reliance and problem-solving skills.
Minimise Distractions: Ensure the homework station is free from distractions such as mobile phones, television, and loud noises. Consider using noise-cancelling headphones if the environment is not naturally quiet.
Tips for a Successful Homework Station
Personalise the Space: Let your child personalise their homework station with decorations or supplies that they like. This makes the space more inviting and motivating.
Monitor and Adjust: Regularly check in with your child to see if the setup and routine are working. Be open to making adjustments based on their feedback and changing needs.
Healthy Snacks: Provide healthy snacks and water during homework time to keep their energy levels up.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for their efforts and consistency. Positive reinforcement encourages them to stick with the routine and take pride in their work.
Conclusion
Creating a dedicated homework station and establishing a consistent homework routine are key steps in helping your child stay organised and focused. By providing the right environment and tools, you empower them to take responsibility for their learning and develop good study habits. With patience and regular adjustments, you can ensure that your child’s homework time is productive and stress-free.
Setting Up Consistent Family Dinners
Have dinner at a consistent time each evening. Make it a family affair to promote good eating habits and family bonding.
Choose a Regular Dinner Time
Consistency is Key: Aim to have dinner at the same time each evening. This helps establish a routine and ensures everyone knows when to expect dinner.
Adjust as Needed: While consistency is important, it’s also okay to adjust the dinner time occasionally to accommodate family schedules and activities.
Involve Everyone in Preparation
Meal Planning: Involve children in meal planning by letting them choose meals or help with grocery shopping. This can make them more excited about dinner.
Cooking Together: Encourage children to help with age-appropriate cooking tasks. This not only teaches them valuable skills but also makes them feel included.
Making Dinner a Family Affair
Create a Pleasant Atmosphere
Set the Table Together: Involve children in setting the table. This can be a fun activity and makes them feel part of the process.
Limit Distractions: Turn off the TV and put away phones and other devices to create a distraction-free environment where everyone can focus on each other.
Encourage Conversation
Open-Ended Questions: Ask open-ended questions that encourage discussion, such as "What was the best part of your day?" or "What did you learn today?"
Share Stories: Share stories from your day and encourage your children to do the same. This helps build a sense of connection and understanding.
Promote Good Eating Habits
Balanced Meals: Serve balanced meals with a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains.
Model Behaviour: Show your children how to eat healthily by making good food choices yourself.
Mindful Eating: Encourage mindful eating by taking time to enjoy the food and the company, rather than rushing through the meal.
Tips for Successful Family Dinners
Be Flexible: While consistency is important, it’s also essential to be flexible. Sometimes schedules won’t align perfectly, and that’s okay.
Make It Fun: Occasionally, have themed dinners or picnic-style meals in the living room to keep things exciting and fun.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise your children for participating in family dinners and trying new foods.
Conclusion
Consistent family dinners are a cornerstone of healthy family life. By setting a regular dinner time, involving everyone in preparation, and making the meal a family affair, you promote good eating habits and strengthen family bonds. Remember, the goal is to create a pleasant and engaging environment where everyone feels valued and connected. With patience and creativity, family dinners can become a cherished daily tradition that benefits everyone in the household.
Teaching children how to get organised by:
Establishing Effective Wind-Down Time and Bedtime Rituals for Children
Set a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Creating a consistent and calming pre-bedtime routine is crucial for helping children wind down and prepare for a good night's sleep. A structured bedtime ritual not only ensures they get the necessary rest but also helps them feel secure and ready to face the next day. Here’s how to establish effective wind-down time and bedtime rituals for your child.
Wind-Down Time
Set a Consistent Start Time
Routine Start: Begin the wind-down routine at the same time each night. This helps signal to your child that bedtime is approaching and allows their body to adjust to a regular sleep schedule.
Calming Activities
Reading a Book: Reading together is a soothing activity that can help your child relax. Choose calming stories or allow them to pick their favourite book.
Taking a Warm Bath: A warm bath can be incredibly relaxing and helps lower body temperature post-bath, signalling to the body that it’s time to sleep.
Listening to Soft Music: Playing gentle, soothing music can create a peaceful environment and help your child relax.
Quiet Play: Engage in quiet activities like puzzles, colouring, or drawing. Avoid stimulating games or activities that can energise them.
Limit Screen Time
No Screens Before Bed: Avoid screen time at least an hour before bed. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep.
Bedtime Ritual
Set a Consistent Bedtime
Age-Appropriate Bedtime: Ensure your child goes to bed at a time that allows them to get the recommended amount of sleep for their age. Younger children typically need more sleep than older ones.
Stick to the Schedule: Consistency is key. Even on weekends, try to maintain a regular bedtime to help regulate your child's internal clock.
Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment
Comfortable Bed: Ensure the bed is comfortable with appropriate bedding. Keep the room cool, dark, and quiet to promote better sleep.
Favourite Items: Allow your child to have a favourite stuffed animal or blanket that helps them feel secure and cosy.
Bedtime Routine Steps
Brushing Teeth and Washing Up: Encourage good hygiene by including teeth brushing and face washing in the bedtime routine.
Pyjama's: Help your child change into comfortable pyjama's. This signals that it’s time to sleep.
Story Time: End the routine with a calming activity, like reading a book together. This can be a special bonding time and a positive way to end the day.
Tips for Success
Be Consistent: Stick to the routine as closely as possible. Consistency helps reinforce the habits and makes it easier for your child to settle into sleep.
Be Patient: Changes in routines can take time to become effective. Be patient and allow your child to adjust.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for following the bedtime routine. Positive reinforcement helps them feel good about their efforts.
Model Good Behaviour: Show your child that you also have a bedtime routine. Children often mimic their parents' behaviours.
Conclusion
Establishing a calming wind-down time and a consistent bedtime ritual is essential for helping children get the rest they need. By setting a regular schedule, incorporating relaxing activities, and creating a comfortable sleep environment, you can ensure your child is well-rested and ready for the day ahead. Patience and consistency are key to making these routines effective and beneficial for your child’s overall well-being.
Preparing for the Next Day: A Guide for Children
Helping your child prepare for the next day can significantly reduce morning stress and ensure a smoother start. By packing their backpack, laying out clothes, and setting goals for the following day, you can foster a sense of responsibility and organisation in your child. Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively prepare for the next day.
Pack Backpack
Why It’s Important:
Packing the backpack the night before ensures that your child has all the necessary items for school, reducing the chances of forgetting important things and making the morning less chaotic.
Steps to Pack the Backpack:
Check the Schedule: Review the school schedule to determine what subjects and activities are planned for the next day.
Gather Supplies: Collect all necessary supplies, including textbooks, notebooks, pens, pencils, and any special items needed for projects or extracurricular activities.
Homework and Assignments: Ensure all homework and assignments are completed and packed.
Snack and Lunch: Prepare snacks and lunch, if applicable, and place them in the designated spot in the backpack.
Double-Check: Go through the checklist with your child to make sure nothing is forgotten.
Lay Out Clothes for Tomorrow
Why It’s Important:
Choosing and laying out clothes the night before simplifies the morning routine and helps avoid last-minute stress and decision-making.
Steps to Lay Out Clothes:
Check the Weather: Look at the weather forecast for the next day to choose appropriate clothing.
School Dress Code: Consider any school dress code requirements or special event attire needed.
Involve Your Child: Let your child help choose their outfit to encourage independence and ensure they are comfortable with their choice.
Complete Outfit: Lay out everything, including underwear, socks, shoes, and accessories.
Set Goals for the Next Day
Why It’s Important:
Discussing and setting goals for the next day helps your child mentally prepare, stay focused, understand what needs to be accomplished and teaches your child how to get organised.
Steps to Set Goals:
Review the Day’s Agenda: Talk about the schedule for the next day, including school activities, homework, and any extracurricular activities.
Identify Key Tasks: Highlight important tasks or events, such as a test, project deadline, or after-school activity.
Set Achievable Goals: Help your child set specific, achievable goals for the day, such as completing a particular homework assignment or participating actively in class.
Encourage Questions: Allow your child to ask questions and express any concerns they might have about the upcoming day.
Tips for Success
Consistent Routine: Make preparing for the next day a consistent part of the evening routine. This helps reinforce the habit and makes it second nature.
Create a Checklist: Use a visual checklist to help your child remember each step. This can be especially useful for younger children.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for their efforts in preparing for the next day. Positive reinforcement encourages them to continue these good habits.
Lead by Example: Show your child how you prepare for your own next day. Children often learn by observing their parents’ behaviours.
Conclusion
Preparing for the next day is a crucial step in helping children develop organisational skills and reducing morning stress. By packing their backpack, laying out clothes, and setting goals, you empower your child to take responsibility for their daily routine. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to making these habits stick, ensuring that your child starts each day organised and ready to succeed.
At School
Organise School Supplies
Backpack Checklist: Make a checklist of items that need to be packed daily—homework, books, lunch, etc. Have them check it each morning.
Color-Coded Folders: Use different coloured folders or binders for each subject to make finding materials easier.
Planner Usage
Daily Planner: Teach your child to write down homework assignments, test dates, and project deadlines. Review it together each evening.
Long-Term Planning: For larger projects, break them down into smaller tasks and set mini-deadlines.
Teaching Your Child to Use a Daily Planner
Using a daily planner is an excellent way for children to stay organised, manage their time effectively, and keep track of their responsibilities. Teaching your child how to use a daily planner to write down homework assignments, test dates, and project deadlines can help them develop important organisational skills that will benefit them throughout their academic career and beyond. Here’s how to get started.
1. Choose the Right Planner
Consider Age and Preferences:
Age-Appropriate Design: Select a planner that is suitable for your child’s age. Younger children may benefit from planners with colourful designs and larger spaces to write, while older children might prefer a more straightforward and professional layout.
Personal Preferences: Involve your child in choosing their planner. Letting them pick a design they like can make them more excited about using it.
2. Introduce the Planner
Explain the Purpose:
Why It’s Important: Explain to your child how using a planner can help them stay organised, keep track of their schoolwork, and avoid last-minute stress.
How It Helps: Discuss how writing things down can improve memory and ensure nothing is forgotten.
3. Teach How to Use the Planner
Daily Entries:
Homework Assignments: Encourage your child to write down homework assignments as soon as they receive them. This includes details about what needs to be done and the due date.
Test Dates: Mark test dates in the planner as soon as they are announced. Encourage your child to note any study milestones leading up to the test.
Project Deadlines: Break down larger projects into smaller tasks and write these steps in the planner. Include deadlines for each step to help manage the workload.
Weekly and Monthly Overviews:
Weekly Planning: At the beginning of each week, review upcoming assignments, tests, and activities. This helps your child get an overview of their week and plan accordingly.
Monthly Overview: Use the monthly calendar section to mark important dates like tests, project deadlines, and school events.
4. Daily Review Together
Evening Review:
Check Entries: Each evening, review the planner with your child. Check off completed tasks and discuss what needs to be done the next day.
Adjust Plans: If necessary, adjust the planner based on what was accomplished and what still needs to be done.
5. Encourage Consistent Use
Build a Routine:
Daily Habit: Encourage your child to make updating and reviewing their planner a daily habit. Consistency is key to developing effective organisational skills.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for using their planner and staying organised. Positive reinforcement can motivate them to continue the habit.
6. Provide Support and Guidance
Be a Role Model:
Show Your Planner: If you use a planner, share how you use it to stay organised. Children often learn by observing their parents.
Offer Help: Be available to help your child with their planner, especially in the beginning. As they become more comfortable, they will need less assistance.
Tips for Success
Set Realistic Goals: Help your child set realistic goals for what they can accomplish each day. This prevents them from feeling overwhelmed.
Use Visual Aids: For younger children, consider using stickers or color-coding to make the planner more engaging.
Make It a Fun Activity: Turn planning sessions into a fun activity. Use colourful pens, stickers, and other accessories to make the process enjoyable.
Conclusion
Teaching your child to use a daily planner is a valuable skill that will help them stay organised and manage their time effectively. By writing down homework assignments, test dates, and project deadlines, your child can keep track of their responsibilities and reduce stress. With regular practice and support, using a planner will become a natural and beneficial habit that enhances their academic performance and overall well-being.
Set Up a Study Schedule
Dedicated Study Time: Allocate specific times for studying and homework. Ensure these times are free from distractions.
Prioritise Tasks: Teach them to tackle harder subjects first when they’re most alert, and easier ones later.
Stay in Touch with Teachers
Regular Check-Ins: Attend parent-teacher conferences and stay updated on your child’s progress and areas needing improvement.
Open Communication: Encourage your child to ask for help when needed and communicate any struggles to their teacher.
Tips for Success
Be Patient: Developing organisational skills takes time. Celebrate small victories to keep them motivated.
Model Behaviour: Show your child how you stay organised. Children often learn by example.
Consistent Reinforcement: Regularly revisit and adjust routines and systems as needed. Consistency helps solidify habits.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise efforts, not just results. Recognising their hard work boosts confidence and encourages continued effort.
Conclusion
Teaching children how to be organised is a valuable life skill that will benefit them in school and beyond. By creating routines, decluttering, using planners, and setting up study schedules, you’re setting them up for success. Patience and consistency are key. With time, these habits will become second nature, empowering your child to manage their responsibilities independently. If you want help setting up these strategies click on the link below to check out a variety of chore charts that are completely editable.
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