Today, I finished a small organizing project for RightStartMath study materials. I purchased those many months ago, took all pieces to home in a big box. Kids played a little. But I haven’t used as teaching tools at all.
The main reason is there are too many parts, which I need to spend time to read instructions to figure out how to use them. With every parts buried in the big box, and my busy schedules, so they just sit there for many months collecting dust.
So, it took me about 30 minutes today with some tools. I am happy with the result.
Some tips:
1. Use a few transparent boxes with lids. Lids are important to keep the items clean. Put labels on box and lid. The boxes should be medium size, not be too big.
2. Put items into different boxes based on categories.
3. Use zip bags, sheet protectors to organize pieces. Put instructions booklet with the parts together if possible, and definitely into the same box.
4. Only fill the box to about 80% full. Otherwise, it will be too much to look at, and I will avoid open the full box subconsciously.
5. Have a designated place to store the box, ideally, next to where to use them. Put back pieces to zipbag, sheet protectors, box and storage location after using immediately.
6. Pick a project not too big. So I can build small wins, use immediately and enjoy the fruit from my effort.
So, finally, I found the right pieces and instructions and had a fun hands on session with my 5 year old on 1 to 20.
Hope this helps. What organizing tips or practices do you use? What will be your next project?