As a teacher, I see so many inconsistencies among capable children. Things like late work, missing assignments, missed rehearsals, and other scatterbrained mishaps. And all because they have no organizational skills.
The lack of organizational skills is an adult issue. Firstly, It is an adult issue because no one thinks to teach children how to prioritize tasks or the benefits of keeping things in order. This affects their daily lives evolving into procrastination, anxiety, missed opportunities, and not living up to their fullest potential. Oh, and it creates unorganized adults. Adult. Problem.
Teaching children organizational skills gives them responsibility. Met responsibility boosts self-confidence, helps with independence, and lays the groundwork for accountability.
Teach Your Child Organizational Skills.
Here’s How:
Create a Schedule
Children should be taught that a schedule is a plan for carrying out a variety of tasks. Sitting down and writing out a daily schedule teaches them the process and allows them to participate in it. This enhances buy in.
Discuss Routine and Its Importance
For kids especially, routine fosters safety. Routines provide a framework that makes mornings run smoothly, ensures that school tasks are completed, alleviate stress, and takes the guesswork out of the day to day expectations.
Set Clear Expectations
Kids are intelligent. So, when they are given clear instructions, informed about what is expected of them and how it will benefit them, kids almost always rise to the occasion. As adults, we just have to get clear on the fact that our kids are capable and require it of them.
Use a Planner
Planners are a great tool for teaching children how to write down tasks. They serve as a reference reminding kids if they forget a chore, assignment, or that practice that was changed to a later time due to the weather.
They are also visual reminders of what kids can do. Each task that they check off or scratch to builds on the foundation that they are capable.
Model
The best way to teach anyone anything is through modeling. Show by doing. You get organized, create a schedule and your being more productive and less stressed will help your child both reap and see the benefits of you being a better you.
Incentives
Incentivize met deadlines, passing classes completed chores. Create a sticker system for games or toys. Or give an allowance for consistency.
Organized, responsible and accountable children grow into well-balanced adults that contribute to society in positive ways; are open to trying new things, and are able to prioritize things in their life.
The benefits are endless.
Teacher, T.