-Can being organized really improve a student's school
performance? Absolutely.
"Teachers agree that a child's lack of organization
dramatically impacts homework, studying skills and test scores," says
parenting expert Stacy DeBroff, who surveyed hundreds of teachers and parents
for her recent book, "The Mom Book Goes to School: Insider Tips to Ensure
Your Child Thrives in Elementary and Middle School."
"Many kids lag behind because they lack basic
self-management and organizational skills, and have trouble with concepts like
planning ahead, prioritizing responsibilities and managing time
effectively," notes DeBroff.
To help parents and children get organized, DeBroff
partnered with Office Depot, a leader in organizational solutions, to compile a
free online guide called "Organized to Learn." Available at
www.school.com, it features simple tips that can help every family get ready
for school. Among the highlights:
1. Plan the Work, Then Work the Plan. Each week, talk to
your child about key assignments and events. Then create a weekly checklist
together using a dry-erase board. Let your child cross off each item or task
after it is completed to feel a sense of accomplishment.
2. Visible Reminders Are a Great Tool. Try using a simple,
wearable reminder system to help jog your kids' memory. The Mead Wrist
Reminders are paper bracelets children wear to remember important "to
do's"-from turning in permission slips to being home at a certain time.
3. An Organized, Ergonomic Backpack Saves Time and
Backaches. Backpacks and books are getting heavier. Look for a backpack that is
ergonomically designed, with multiple pockets, and that will do most of the
organizational work for your child, like the TUG by Foray backpack line.
4. Share Files in a
Flash. Whether working with study groups, sharing research or bringing an
absent friend up-to-date on missed class notes, kids today are sharing
information electronically. Students can use an Ativa flash memory drive
complete with McAfee software, which scans for viruses before your child
transfers the file to his or her computer.
5. Good Paper Management. Help kids use their notebooks to
create effective filing systems. One solution is the Mead Five Star Flex Hybrid
NoteBinder, which can be customized with folders, reinforced notepaper and colour
dividers.
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