by E.M.Robinson

Created on: February 19, 2008

Staying organized in school is critical to academic success.With the help of parents and teachers, children can get organized and stay organized.Consistent use of a day-planner and a an organization system are two important steps to developing good study habits in children.

Other habits such as frequent review of notes and vocabulary, use of graphic organizers, and having an established place to study are all important components of good study habits, but a planner(agenda, or assignments book) and an organizational system are key to developing good study habits.

1. Use of a planner-
Work with your child by encouraging him or her and even rewarding consistent use of the day-planner. Some children do not know where to begin to get organized, so offer suggestions and provide the materials to help them be interested in working within an organizational system.Make these habits routine. When we develop routines,we are able to get certain things done without thinking. Children can do this, too, with your direction.

2. Getting reading for tests and quizzes -
Preparing for upcoming tests should be considered homework, even if a precise assignment is not given. Therefore, anticipating a test or quiz is an important part of developing good study habits in children.Special events and other information can also be recorded in a planner.

3. The day-planner also serves as a communication system between you and the teacher(s). As a parent, you need to know if an assignment was not turned in. A zero grade for missing work will kill even an "A" average.Communication is the link between home and school. As parents, our children often tell us about the grades of 90, 95, and 100. We even hear about their extra credit. We seldom hear about the zero paper that is factored into their average, until it is too late.

Your child can present the planner to the teacher at an agreed-upon time each day, so that you know when your child has done well and when he or she is lacking an important assignment. This needs to be your child's responsibility, not the teacher's.

4. Reward your child for using an organization system-
You can reward your child when he comes home each day to show you that teacher's initials in the planner. Over time, your student will improve his skills through a system of feeling accountable for his school day. You can also look forward to positive notes from the teacher as your child becomes more successful in his or her organization skills that you are supporting at home.

Rewards

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