|
Professional organizer Linda
Koopersmith shows children how to get
organized--starting in their own room. The
skills children learn about organizing
around a house will transfer into their
schoolwork and into the organization of
papers and projects.
Rule No. 1: This is your child's room, not
yours. What may appear as clutter to you
could be very valuable and precious to
your child. Always consult him or her
before removing an object or throwing it
away.
Stuffed Animals
What was once an animal gathering is now a
zoo. Talk with your child around birthday
or holiday time about donating a few of
those stuffed animals that are neglected
to those less fortunate. Emphasize to the
child the new joy it will bring to a
stranger.
Under the Bed
Clear-front storage compartments work
great underneath a child's bed. Doll
clothes, for instance, can be categorized
according to style and bagged separately.
Craft store containers have clear fronts
and can store small like items (figure A).
Work Area
If a child's work area doesn't have enough
drawers, stacking plastic containers are
the answer (figure B). This gives a child
the ability to store his or her things and
be organized at a desk. Make sure that all
the things a child needs to study
effectively (pens, pencils, glue, ruler,
etc.) are at his or her fingertips.
Filing System
Getting a child started on a filing system
is a great way to begin organizing (figure
C). Decide with the child what files to
create and in what order to file things
(papers, homework, magazine articles,
etc.). Involving a child in the
organizational process contributes to
learning and sets good habits for the
future.
Bookcase Vanity
By hanging a mirror in the back, a child
can keep hair accessories and other items
in one place and out of the bathroom
(figure D).
|
 |
