Schoolwork Station

Written by Contributing Writer, KT @ One Organic Mama

My oldest son started school two weeks ago.

To say the transition was seamless… would be a lie. A big lie.  He is tired, testing boundaries, but loving his school day.  He has wonderful teachers, is making friends, and has a smile on his face when he gets off the bus everyday.  We have created a few things to help us get ready for school in the morning successfully and almost independently, as well as transition back to home in the afternoon.  

Here is what is going on in our schoolwork station:

1. Chore lists  

For some perhaps 5 is too young for ‘chores’ but our lists help us to get ready in the morning and keep organized in the afternoon.  They include both words and pictures, a spot to check each item off when we are finished, and are placed in a picture frame (so we can use dry erase marker to wipe it off each day).  They include tasks like: get dressed, brush teeth, eat breakfast, put message folder in bag, etc.  He is quite happy to be empowered to follow them himself and to contribute to our family routine.

2. Homework/schoolwork items

Whatever your student needs to complete work at home.  We have jars with markers, pencils, glue, etc.

3. A folder for school messages

This is used to put all of the handouts and communication from his teachers

4. A bin for graded/completed work

Use this for after it is displayed on the fridge 🙂

5. A quiet place to sit and practice

Creating a fun. inviting learning space that is specific for homework, art, etc. encourages a child to grow. 

How do you manage back to school time in an organized way?  What’s in your schoolwork toolbox?