Organize Your Student for Success…..in only minutes!

Did you know that organization is linked to academic success?  In working as a tutor, you have the ability to model organizational strategies with your student and pave a path for their additional success.  The key here is to deliver organizational tools consistently every time you work with your student.  The changes I am suggesting are simple.  It’s that very simplicity that makes them powerful. They are easy to remember and easy to carry out! Most of us learn from modeling.  If you can model organizational tools for your student each week, you may just “imprint” these strategies on them and make the tools stick at home!

1.     Prepare the work space.  Your student will need a clean, uncluttered surface.  Ask your student if they have a “study spot” at home.  Encourage them to find a place they can use daily away from loud noise and TV.  Okay, you can stop laughing….just try and help them find the “best” spot.

2.     Prepare your materials.  Help your student “set up” the study area.  They will need their planner out on the desk.  They may need to keep most of their books on the floor if they are working at a desk with limited space. Other materials include paper, pencils, pens, erasers, calculator, etc. Remind your student to keep these supplies in their “study spot” at home if they can have doubles.  Always encourage them to keep these materials in a specific area of their backpack. It seems silly, but having the supplies ready will save time and help your student’s confidence.  Having their “tools” in place will give them a feeling of control.

3.     Assignment overview.  Look at the planner with your student.  If they have assignments they have not written into the book, suggest they write it in quickly. This will help them develop the habit.  If you do that with them every week, it won’t be long before they will see your face at school telling them “Write it down!”when the teacher is passing out assignments.  My nieces laugh and tell me they cannot get into a car without seeing my face leaning in over the window telling them to “buckle up!” Your words have tremendous power.  Say it nice and say it consistent and you will impact! 

4.     Do the work and check it off as you go.  Have your student mark it off in the planner as they go through it. This is teaching them the concept of checking off a “to do list” and no matter what age you are, it always feels good to “check it off.”

5.     Put it away.  Try and get your student to toss papers they don’t need and use whatever pockets they have in their backpack to organize their supplies and homework.

6.     Encourage. Encourage. Encourage.  Organization takes time, concentration and consistency.  If you are consistent, kind and encouraging, you will help your student develop tools that will enhance their academic success and beyond!

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Maria Murphy writes a monthly Tutor/Mentor Coaching Tip for this site and has been a presenter for Cabrini Connection’s Tutor/Mentor Conference. She is a speaker, consultant and writer. The full article can be found on her blog column at http:// www.simplyputtogether.com.