In the wonderful world of homeschooling, particularly with gifted students with high IQs, creativity, and niche interests - organization is a cornerstone of success! 

While these students often excel in their areas of passion, they may struggle with structuring their time and tasks effectively. Developing strong organizational skills can help them manage their learning more independently, leading to greater academic achievement and personal growth (and less of the dreaded “what now?”).

Techniques for Organization

• Daily Schedules and Routines:
  Establishing a consistent daily schedule is essential. This doesn’t mean every minute must be planned, but having a general routine helps provide structure while still allowing flexibility. Incorporate blocks of time dedicated to different subjects, creative projects, and breaks. Tailoring the schedule to the student’s peak focus times can optimize learning. Some students learn better first thing in the morning and some better after lunch. Your student might know instantly which is better for them, or it may take a little work. Try different activities at different times of the day and ask your student to reflect on when they feel the most focused, creative, etc. 

• Using Planners and Calendars:
  Planners and calendars are invaluable tools for organizing assignments, projects, and activities. Encourage your child to use a planner to track daily tasks and long-term goals. A family calendar can also be used to visualize weekly or monthly schedules, helping everyone stay on the same page. Planners can be paper, whiteboard, or digital - the sky's the limit! 

  • Tools and Resources

    • Apps and Digital Tools:
      In today’s digital age, there are numerous apps designed to aid in organization. Tools like Trello, Google Calendar, and Todoist allow students to manage tasks, set reminders, and track progress on various projects. These digital tools can be especially beneficial for tech-savvy students who prefer working on devices.

    • Physical Organization Tools:
      For those who thrive with tangible tools, consider using color-coded folders, binders, and notebooks to organize different subjects and projects. A dedicated workspace with labeled storage for supplies can also help maintain order and reduce distractions during study time.

You might be thinking, “But how can I include my student?”

Teaching Responsibility and Time Management:
It’s crucial to involve your child in the process of developing their organizational skills. Teach them the importance of taking responsibility for their learning by setting aside time each week to review their progress and adjust their schedules as needed (that means asking their opinion too!). Time management skills are equally important, helping them prioritize tasks and allocate sufficient time to complete them.

Maintaining Organization

Maintaining organization is an ongoing process, not a one-time task. Regularly review and adjust schedules, and be open to trying new tools and techniques that might better suit your child’s evolving needs. Encourage consistency, but also be flexible enough to allow for creativity and spontaneity. Remember, the goal is to create an organized environment that supports your child’s unique learning journey, helping them reach their full potential.

Quick Tips:

• Set aside 10-15 minutes daily to organize and review the day’s tasks.

• Use visual aids like charts or checklists to track progress.

• Encourage your child to take ownership of their organizational tools, whether digital or physical.

• Make organization a positive experience by celebrating milestones and achievements.

• Discuss “must do’s” and “would like to do’s” with your student

There are so many different ways to introduce your student to time management and organization. Do you have any tips that have worked for your family?