Organizing with Kids

 

As parents, we do our level best to teach our children how to survive and thrive in this crazy world. It can be difficult because our generations have different challenges, technologies, and opportunities, but they still look to their parents to see how to respond. It's funny just what our kids do learn from us and how they use that knowledge. Our children take mental notes on how we keep our homes, raise our kids, and conduct ourselves in the community and workplace. They observe our strategies and outcomes then take that information and either adapt it to fit their personalities or run from it.

Take the time to look at your life from your kids' perspective. What do they see? You may not realize the things the kids focus on without asking them about it. Perhaps you'll learn something about yourself. For sure you'll learn something about your child that will help you connect. This strong connection with your child is the first step to truly teaching them, especially organizing skills. Without a personal connection between you and your child, organizing can be construed as tedious, boring, and even punishment. Many adults that struggle with clutter began life disorganized and just stayed that way because, as children, either they were never taught the value of being organized or they rebelled against a "do it my way" household mantra. Neither situation sets this child up for success. Instead, I suggest the following:

1. Set an example: if you complain or procrastinate they will to.
   
2. Establish a picture of what being organized looks like and how it benefits your family.
   
3. Create rewards: celebrate after your responsibilities have been taken care of.
   
4. Start simple: it really isn't fair to overload children with possessions and expect them to keep it all organized.
   
5. Create a routine: depending on the age of the child, you may want to do it with them until it becomes habit. Make it a positive interaction!
   

We don't all organize the same way or to the same degree, which is really fine, but effective organizing skills are important to a successful life. Work with your kids to personalize the steps above and apply them in a manner that will benefit your family dynamic. You can start by targeting either a space or an activity. For instance, if getting out the door on time in the morning is a misnomer in your family, perhaps you need to create a launch pad for coats, shoes and bags. If the space isn't the issue, perhaps it's the habits. One of my little guys is a slow eater so we switched up his breakfast time to last on the list. Now at least he's dressed and ready when the 5 minute warning comes. It has made a huge difference in our mornings. He's happier and I'm happier – win win.

Now it's your turn. Identify your organizing objective and create actionable steps following the tips in this article. Organization has the power to change your relationships, improve your self image, and even create a healthier lifestyle. What are you waiting for?

Shannon Cowan is a professional organizer and owner of Fresh Perspective Organizing Services, LLC . She offers hands on organizing, relocation services, and educational seminars. Visit her site at www.freshperspectiveorganizing.com or call 405.880.2126 for further information.