Staying organized
Get tips and strategies to help you or your child stay organized. Find out how executive function challenges and ADHD can cause trouble with organization and time management.
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Tips and strategies
- Quick tipSort and group supplies.
Sort supplies into clear categories. For example, put pens, pencils, and highlighters together. Then have kids pick a pocket in the backpack to store these items in. Labeling or color-coding pockets can help kids remember what goes there.
- Quick tipGive things a place.
Take advantage of shoeboxes, baskets, and plastic tubs. Label them to note what goes where: school or work papers, office supplies, toys, etc. This makes it easier to keep things neat.
- Quick tipUse calendars and checklists.
Digital or paper calendars, planners, and checklists can help kids remember to turn in homework. Have kids choose a tool that works best for them. Then teach them how to use it.
Podcast
ADHD and messiness (Jeannie’s story)
Jeannie talks through the executive function challenges she faces when she tries to tidy and clean up.
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