How to Organize Your Child for a More Productive School Year

Fall is here, and with it comes the start of a new school year. It’s easy to be organized at the beginning of the year, when uniforms are new, supplies are fresh and kids are excited, but as time goes on, that excitement wanes—and your child’s productivity may drop.

Here are some tips to help keep your child organized:

• Start young. Even the youngest child can learn to put things away. Help kids sort through their backpacks so they learn what to file and what to toss. Consider giving each child a big storage box to save artwork and other papers.
• Create a routine. Kids thrive on structure. Snack time first, then homework before playtime.
• Create a central calendar to keep track of your family. A colour-coded calendar works great. Just assign each member of the family a different colour, and write down his or her activities in colour-coded ink.
• Provide an adequate work area. Consider using a "homework station," a portable zone to stow all necessary supplies. That way, you won’t have to scramble to find a pencil, eraser or glue.
• Make organization fun. Let your child choose colourful notebooks, portfolios or locker supplies to help them stay on track.
• Set a good example. It's not likely that your kids will see the need for organization if your bedroom or home office looks like a tornado swept through it.

Trends in Small Space Remodels

Trends in Small Space Remodels

So your youngest child is headed off to university, and you finally have a chance to create some personal space with his empty bedroom. But what to do?

Many homeowners are faced with this dilemma when family members move out. Why not remodel to reflect your current hobbies or lifestyle?

Common ideas for spare bedrooms include art studios, home theaters, game rooms or home gyms

Home theaters are probably the most popular choice. To create one, install comfortable specialized seating, surround sound speakers, a large projection screen or flat-screen television and features such as popcorn machines or concession areas to entertain guests. Additional enhancements can include built-in cabinets, fabric wall panels to absorb sounds and accent lighting, such as step lights, to add to the theater experience.

However you decide to renovate your spare room, be sure to work closely with your remodeler to communicate your needs and wants. That way, even the smallest details will be included to make the room a rewarding experience for all who use it.