Apparently spring is here. With the cold and wet weather we have been having I really didn’t see any signs of spring myself but maybe you did! Once we have all made it through the fun, excitement not to mention lots of sugar from Purim, we quickly move into Passover or spring cleaning and preparation. For me Purim is already a distant memory!
In listening to people, especially women talk about their pre-Passover plans to me it really sounds a lot like spring cleaning and organizing. Draws are opened and items removed, coat pockets are emptied, closets and cupboards are inspected. For the most part, I don’t think we find too many crumbs or food in those areas of our homes. What ends up happening is that we taken on an organization mission. I was telling a friend of mine this morning how I organized my underwear drawer (okay maybe that’s too much information lol) and I felt liberated - free of stuff that I really didn’t need and were taking up space. In thinking about the work we get involved in at home before Passover and in the spring I realize what a great time this is to help our children learn how to get organized themselves. Here are some ideas.
As you begin to devise a plan for how you will get your home “Passover ready”, involve your children in the plan. Ask them questions like - What should we do first? What room or area should we begin with? What specific actions do we need to take in that room - remove all the clothing from the closet and put them back neatly, move the bed, empty backpacks? Let them generate the ideas for you and build your plan from there. Then give them a specific responsibility. One child can clean up under the beds, another one can organize the bookshelf or toys. They can also work as a team on something specific.
We all have our own system or method to organizing our space, materials, or time. Some of us use these strategies or tools more naturally and others have intentionally learned what works best for us. I know for myself that I need to write a checklist and check off once I have completed each task. We model these strategies for our children but do we talk to them about what we do? It is not enough for them just to see us to do it. We also should discuss what works for us. Again, ask them if they already do something to stay organized such as writing their homework in their agenda or on a calendar, emptying unneeded papers from their backpack regularly (I know we hope and pray that they do this!).
Take on organization routines as a family. Just like in some homes dinner time or bed time occur on a regular schedule, set time for organizing your space and materials. For example, on Sundays everyone writes on a personal calendar or a family calendar their plan for the week. Each child can use their favourite colour to input activities, assignments, tests, special events on the calendar. School bags, work bags, or gym bags can be organized on Fridays. Whatever routine is established, do it with your children. When they see you doing it with them they will feel more like it is shared and not imposed.
If you would like more strategies or tools for how to support your children in being organized or any other executive function skills feel free to contact me. Please share your what works for you as well! Happy Spring and have a great week!
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