Developing good organizational skills are integral for success in school and in life. Here are a few strategies you can use to help your child become a more organized learner.
Use Checklists
Help your child get into the habit of keeping a "to-do" list. Use checklists to post assignments, household chores, and reminders about materials to bring to class. Crossing completed tasks off the list will give him/her a sense of accomplishment.
Create a homework area
Your child should do homework in the same place every night. This doesn't have to be a bedroom, but it should be a quiet place with no distractions such as a TV. If your child wants to study with you nearby, you'll be better able to monitor progress and encourage good study habits.
Set a designated study time
Your child should know that a certain time every day is reserved for studying and doing homework. There is no perfect time. It will depend on your family obligation/schedules as well as your child's personality. Even if your child doesn't have homework, that time should be reserved for reading for pleasure, or practicing math skills.
Create a home schedule
Try to establish and stick to a regular homework, dinnertime, and bedtime schedule. Having a regular routine will help your child feel comfortable in a predictable pattern. This will also ensure that your child is well rested so they are ready to learn.
Prepare for the day ahead
Before your child goes to bed, they should pack schoolwork and books in their backpack to prevent them from forgetting materials. They should also plan their outfits for the next day to avoid confusion the next morning.
Perform a weekly clean-up
Encourage your child to sort through bookbags and notebooks on a weekly basis. Old papers should be removed and kept in a separate place at home.