The school year ended a few short weeks ago, yet the stores are already starting with the back to school displays.  I cannot think about back to school…it’s only July.  Whether you avail yourself of the early-bird sales or not it is crucial to deal with last year’s school papers immediately.  You do NOT want to bring anything new into your home until last year is sorted.

RULE #1 GATHER  Consolidate all school items.  Check desks, closets, under beds, side of the fridge, or any other place you might find papers and make one big pile.

RULE #2 SORT AND PURGE  It is OK to throw things out.  I repeat: It is OK to throw things out.  Recycling is great, too, but my point is you do not need to keep every scribble, workbook, or worksheet that came home this year. Keep special projects, favorite art, and samples of the child’s best work.

RULE #3 CONTAIN  Designate a container for each child.  My preference is a see-through bin with a lid.  I recommend no larger than 20 quart (18.9 liter) Once the container is full, that’s it.  Make choices.  Be in control of your stuff, don’t let your stuff control you.

RULE #4 ENJOY  Periodically look through the container.  Enjoy the contents and the memories. If you decide to further downsize the collection, feel free. You are under no obligation to keep anything for posterity.

So now that you have dealt with the previous year you can look forward to the next.  Want to know how to efficiently and effectively manage the new influx of paper for 2018-2019 school year? Stay tuned…

Thanks for reading.

Karen

July 11, 2018