I just completed my daughter's paperwork for her first day of Kindergarten and am getting ready for the first day tomorrow. The early mornings are definitely going to be an adjustment for us since she has done afternoon preschool the last two years and neither of us are early risers. After some debate, we decided to request the morning class to get her used to early mornings when she only needs to be at school for half of a day.
I was just reading an article on MetroParent.com about how to organize for the school year. There were some good tips such as plan ahead (ie pack lunch/snack the night before, lay out clothing) and give everything a home. Other tips, I like, but not their implementation. So I wanted to offer my suggestions/thoughts.
The issue for me is always drowning in papers. I have found these solutions to work great:
- My daughter's new school gives the option of getting paperwork from school electronically. I love this option. Not only is it environmentally friendly, it means it isn't cluttering up my counter or getting lost. A nice simple search of my email box allows me to find it. With my smartphone and iPad I still have access to it on the go, or I can print it out if I really need to take it with me. If your school does not offer an electronic delivery option, you might want to suggest it.
- I stored her school work in a binder. It keeps it all together and organized. I discovered the wonders of binders when I was in college. It was great for open book exams or studying because I could have my notes, handouts, homework, quizzes, and past exams all in one place.
- Instead of just throwing away (or recycling) extra art work or school work, you can scan it or take a picture of the work and save the digital copy.
The calendar is another big one. I use the calendar on my computer which synchronizes to my mobile devices. I am struggling somewhat with this as my daughter gets older and needs access to a calendar.
- We do use the dry erase board on the refrigerator, but it is really more for her to see how far until something occurs, not a detailed list of times and events.
- I also found that it is key to set the alarm on events appropriately. For example, if I am going to volunteer at my daughter's school 15 minutes from home it is helpful to set the alarm for more than 10 minutes before I am supposed to be there. Now I make sure the alarm is set for 5 minutes before I would need to leave my house.
What are your best organizing tips for the school year?
