How Can I Get Myself and My Kids Better Organized?
Busy lives require planning. If you're like most parents, you probably feel overwhelmed at times with all that needs to be done and the lack of time you have to do it all. Your kids probably feel overwhelmed at times, too.
Here are 8 tried-and-true secrets for getting you and your kids organized.
Make written lists. Research shows that writing things down actually helps planning and memory. Show your kids how to make "to-do lists" using words or pictures. They can discover firsthand how great it feels to cross things off the list as they complete the tasks.
Set priorities. You can't do everything—or at least not everything at the same time. What is most important? What can wait? Help your kids prioritize school assignments and other tasks. (Sometimes the things that can wait are so appealing that they can be used as "breaks" from the stuff that's at the top of the list.)
Break down tasks into baby steps. Activities that seem daunting when you look at them as a whole are more doable in small increments. Divide your big goals into small, concrete tasks. You can help your kids do the same thing. Does cleaning their rooms seem overwhelming? Encourage them to begin by sorting one toy shelf. The assignment too much? Help them start by writing an outline.
Designate a time. Clear a specific time for a task so that you don't get distracted or feel as if you should be doing something else.
Set clear limits. Set a timer for 20 minutes and see how much you can accomplish. Alternatively, take just one of the baby steps on your list and stop when you're finished.
Listen to music. Select appropriate music to either help you get moving or soothe your anxiety while you tackle that long-postponed action.
Get others involved. Make getting organized a team effort. Working together will help you motivate one another.
- Reward yourself. Everyone needs positive reinforcement. Enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes with having taken even a small step.
There are many tools that can help you "get it together." Calendars, appointment books, filing cabinets, files, containers and bins, electronic organizers, and smart phones can all help. But if you're organizing electronically, you may want to print out a monthly calendar so you can see the big picture. And posting a family wall calendar keeps everyone in the loop.
Good luck!
For more information read Setting Up Routines.