5 Tips For Keeping Teens Organized and Focused

Being organized is one of the keys to success. Unfortunately, these skills do not come naturally to all of us, especially not to children. Often, children must be taught organizational skills. By the time children hit their tween years, skills that help them focus and prioritize are a must as they become more independent both at home and at school.

My oldest daughter is in her final year of middle school. It was quite a transition for her and for our entire family when she began middle school two years ago. Her work load increased, the pressures of succeeding academically and socially were greater, and she was expected to be independent and self-reliant. A big change from elementary school.

Within the first week of school we realized that our child, who required constant micro-managing, desperately needed to learn some basic organizational skills in order to thrive in middle school.

Here are 5 steps that we took to ensure that our daughter could focus on the tasks at hand while prioritizing and organizing other areas of her life such as her after school activities and social calendar.

1. Organize Assignments

My daughter's school provides each student with a planner so that they can keep all of their daily assignments written down in a central place. Planners are a great way to record school work, after school activities, social events, and family time. Planners can be digital or paper. The important thing is that they will help your child manage his or her time and set realistic expectations and goals for each day.

2. De-Clutter

Kids are hoarders. Well, mine are anyway. They keep EVERYTHING. From a small scrap of paper to an enormous school project, it can be found lingering in a backpack or under the bed. Deciding what to keep and what to trash is often difficult for adults. Imagine how overwhelming it can be for children. Teach your children which items they should keep and which ones can be tossed. Be sure that the documents that are kept are properly stored and organized so that they can be easily accessed when needed.

3. Prepare the Night Before

There is nothing worse than trying to get out the door in the morning only to find a child standing in front of his closet deciding on an outfit to wear. Avoid last minute decisions by prepping the night before. Have your children choose their clothes the night before. Pack up backpacks and lunch boxes and review that homework is complete and all necessary items are in place for the following day.

Go over the day's activities the night before and be sure to pack accordingly.

4. Strike a Balance Between Work and Play

Even as adults we know that there is a time for work and a time for play. They are both necessary for enjoying a well-balanced life, but each has a time. Help your child by aiding him or her in prioritizing study time, after school activities and sitting down to dinner with the family.

5. Hold a Weekly Meeting

On Sunday nights prior to sitting down to dinner, we gather to go over the schedule for the week ahead. We have so much going on during the week (gymnastics, CCD, after school clubs, Girl Scouts, etc.) that these weekly meetings keep everyone well informed, and they give us a chance to be sure we have transportation arranged for everyone so we are not scurrying at the last moment.

Teaching children to be organized is just as important as it is for adults. Not only will excellent organizational skills help them in their formative years, but those skills will help them long into adulthood.

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Notebooks, Framed Prints, and More from Minted.com {Giveaway}

A few months ago when I was searching for some business stationery, a blogging friend told me about Minted.com. She had partnered with Minted to do a review of holiday cards and was thrilled with the outcome. I decided to check out Minted, and I was pleasantly surprised by the array of items.

I am a collector of notebooks and journals. By collector, I mean that I have lots of them in different styles and colors, and I actually use them. They are not expertly displayed on a shelf for all to see, but they are neatly stacked on a shelf in my office, and whatever mood I am in, determines which notebook I use that day or week.

Minted has a fabulous selection of journals, and they offer personalization on each one. From your name to initials, you can choose from different ways to personalize your notebook to make it uniquely your own. I had a difficult time narrowing down my choice. There were just so many that I loved.

I ended up deciding on these two journals. One is a very classic, conservative choice, and the other is fun and whimsical.

The striped notebook is perfect for work. It's professional and fits nicely in my purse for meetings.

The Paris-themed notebook is better suited for my personal notes, grocery lists, and to-do lists.

I thought Minted was primarily stationery, cards, other papery. In addition to all that good stuff, Minted also has an amazing selection of art, especially map art. You have the option of purchasing framed or without the frame. Again, there were so many fantastic prints to choose from. There were color photographs, black and white photos, paintings, and more. And each artist is highlighted so that you get a little back story on who took the photos or painted the pictures. I loved being introduced to artists who I can check out a bit later.

I have an affection for California. When I was a software consultant, I spent a lot of time in southern California at client sites, and I fell in love with the area. The climate, the people, the vibe. I really wanted a print that reflected my love for the state. I chose this gold foil-stamped map of California. I love the way the gold shines. This is the white, framed 8x10, but there are other sizes and frame options available.

I hung the print in my office above my bookshelf. It's a bit small for the space, but it works for now until I find a small area on the wall for it. There are other states available and some cities too. I love the way the gold foil looks against the white background and white frame. Lately, I am loving the combination of black and gold, and since most of my office is decorated in this color scheme, this print works great in this space.

Visit Minted.com to browse the vast selection of available items and to start shopping!

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Minted is generously offering one Pieces of a Mom reader the chance to win a $50 credit to be applied to any Minted.com purchase (does not apply to previous purchases).

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Disclosure: I received a code to purchase the items mentioned in this post. All opinions are my own.

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Currently Craving: Unique Office Supplies

I can remember back to when I landed my first job out of college. I was so excited to have my own desk. But I quickly discovered that I'd be sharing my desk and my supplies with a part-time employee who worked evening hours after I left work.

We shared the same black tape dispenser and glossy black stapler. Our paper trays were a nondescript transparent brown, and our paper clip holder was one of those standard-issue magnetic ones.

I'm sure the company I worked for purchased most of the office supplies in bulk. And while I commend them for being cost-effective, those office and desk supplies were not the most aesthetically pleasing.

After I left that job, I became a software consultant. Since I spent 70% of my time traveling, I didn't devote a whole lot of time to personalizing my office since I was on the road more than I was in the office.

Now that I work at home, my office space is my own. I don't have to share it with anyone (other than occasionally a daughter who prefers to do her homework at my desk), and I have full reign of how I decorate the space.

My office space is currently undergoing a transformation. Everything from the furniture to the supplies is being overhauled. As I am in the process of redecorating, I am finding myself gravitating towards unique and colorful accessories to balance the neutral decor of the room.

Here are a few of the pieces that I am loving, a few of which I have purchased for my new office.

1. Stapler
I never thought I needed a stapler until I bought this one from Kate Spade. Now I'm surprised by how often I use it.

2. Scissors
This is another daily must-have office item. I reach for my pair of scissors at least 10 times a day. I love this one since it can sit neatly on your desktop and can be accessed easily.

3. Pen Set
I have a weakness for colorful pens. I have a holder filled with gel pens on my desk. I love the way the colored pens look against my white desk. So neat and clean. You've got write, so why not make the pens as fun as possible?

4. Magazine/File Folder Holder
Since I have no need for the large capacity of a filing cabinet, I like to use magazine holders for my file folders instead. Plus, they are much more aesthetically pleasing than a large bulky file cabinet.

5. Notebook
I have a long standing love affair with notebooks and journals. I love to use them for lists, notes, blog post ideas, and more. And the prettier, the better.

6. File Folders
It's time to ditch those blah manilla folders and replace them with folders that are much more attractive. Hey, these might actually make filing fun!

7. Tape Dispenser
This is a must-have for me. I love this turquoise one. Wish I had found it before I bought this one that has a permanent home on my desk.

8. Wire Baskets
I love using wire baskets to corral notebooks, notepads, phone cases, chargers, cords, and other small loose items. Not only are they more stylish than canvas bins, but you can see through them for a clear view of the contents.

9. Memo Cube
After finding myself constantly reaching for a piece of paper and not having one readily available, I finally bought this multi-color memo cube. Now a piece of paper is literally at my fingertips.

10. Paper Weight
I was never a big fan of paper weights. That was until I moved my desk directly next to a window. When the window is open and there's even the slightest breeze, my papers go flying across the room. It doesn't have to be labeled as a paper weight. Anything cute but heavy will do the trick.

11. Pen Holder
I currently have this acrylic cup for my gel pens, but I love this striped one too.

*Some of the above may be affiliate links.

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My Five Favorite Trays

Whether you are entertaining or storing, a tray is the perfect way to corral everything you need. I love the way they look on a coffee table, a nightstand, a dresser, or on a dining table.

I've selected five of my all time favorite multi-use trays that are perfect for any decor and budget.

1. Lucite Tray
This makes the perfect addition to any coffee table. Place small books, a candle, and a conversation piece on it and your guests will have something nice to look at and something to talk about.

2. Marble and Wood Square Tray
Whether you are serving up cheese and crackers, tea sandwiches, or scones, this beautiful platter suits any occasion. I ordered this item today, and I can't wait to use it at the holidays.

3. Plastic Rectangular Serving Tray
This tray from Zak Designs is available in a variety of eye-popping colors, but the kiwi (shown) is my favorite. This tray would work in a playroom to organize cups of crayons, markers, pencils, and other craft supplies. Or it could be put to use in the kitchen for corralling salt and pepper shakers and frequently used spices.

4. Wood and Metal Tray
I love the rustic look of this tray. It's perfect for serving cheese, crackers, and olives to guests before dinner. Or it can just as easily be used to corral bottles of perfume and trinket dishes for jewelry.

5. Faux Crocodile Tray
I love this tray for a nightstand. Whether you have white or natural or dark wood furniture, this tray would be a fabulous contrast to the color. Use it for stacks of magazines or books and a small vase for reading glasses.

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Objects of My Obsession

I'm a big believer that life runs much more smoothly when you are organized. I have a place for everything and (usually) try to keep everything in its place. Over the past few weeks, the Hubs and I have done a massive purging of our bedroom, which had come to be a sort of storage area for the family.

As part of my de-cluttering efforts, I've been organizing the items on my dresser and nightstand. The easiest way to do this is with trays. Whether they are made of acrylic, wood, or metal, they are the perfect way to group similar items together. And they look so pretty!

This week's installment of "Objects of My Obsession" is dedicated to a tray that I bought a few weeks ago and was the inspiration behind much of my reorganizing and redecorating.

{Start with a tray. This one is from Target and is available in large, as shown, and a smaller size}

Add go-to items to the tray. These should be things you use daily that are perfect for grab-and-go access. But be careful not to crowd the tray. It's more visually appealing if the items are spaced apart nicely.

A ring dish is must-have. Before buying this landmark ring dish from Anthropologie, I would take my rings off and place them on the vanity in the bathroom and on the kitchen counter. Only to find myself in a complete panic when I couldn't remember where I placed them.

I keep my favorite perfumes on the tray so I can grab and spritz for a finishing touch. Philosophy's Inner Grace is a light, fresh scent, and L'Aromarine Oceane Eau de Toilette is seaside in a bottle.

I keep a few of my favorite bracelets in a little bowl. I bought this bowl at Marshalls, but Anthropologie has a fabulous selection of small bowls and glass measuring cups that are perfect for placing on trays to hold jewelry or hair accessories.

To add a pretty touch to the tray, I included a small candle from Voluspa.

When I bought the tray, I bought these 2 metal boxes at Target as well. I use them for perfume samples and bracelets, They have lids, so you could really put just about anything in here that isn't pretty enough to keep out in the open.

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Get Organized in 2013 with momAgenda® Planners

Let's not kid ourselves. Busy moms have busy schedules. How often have you quickly scribbled an appointment or a note on a sliver of paper only to lose it? Don't be ashamed to admit that it's happened to you. It has happened to all of us.

After having lost countless slips of paper, placed appointments in various places only to forget where I placed them, I finally invested in a momAgenda® planner, and I've never looked back.

MomAgenda® makes stylish day planners, folios, and accessories for busy moms with hectic schedules. Don't try to manage your crazy schedule alone. Never miss an appointment again. momAgenda® can help you organize your time, your family, your work, and your household. All in one place. And momAgenda products follow an August to August calendar to coincide with your child's school year.

momAgenda® items are available in a variety of models, sizes, and colors depending on your needs.

My personal favorite is the momAgenda Mini-Daily. I've owned one for the past 2 years. I'm a sucker for the animal prints. This year it's available in Leopard. I've owned the Giraffe print as well.

The Desktop Planner is perfect for managing multiple calendars for all the members of your family. Shown in python. What a chic color!

Not a mom? Don't fret! momAgenda® makes planners for every busy and stylish woman.

Manage your busy life with the myAgenda Desktop planner. Never again lose track of appointments, lunch meetings, dinner dates, exercise classes, and social activities. Shown in scarlet.

For those who prefer a mini planner that's easy to pop into your bag, try the myAgenda mini. Shown in graphite.

Any of the above planners can be personalized for a small fee. Add your name or initials to the front of your planner for a customized look. Full details can be found on the web site.

momAgenda® also offers journals, note pads, and sticky notes as well as home organizers. You can also download printables directly from the momAgenda Web site.

Currently, momAgenda is offering a 40% discount on all planners and free shipping on orders over $30. This is a fantastic offer, and you don't want to miss out on the savings.

To view the entire product line and learn more about momAgenda, visit the Web site.

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Online Shopping at become.com

We start the year off with hopes of improvement. It's usually in the form of self-improvement, professional-improvement, or home-improvement. I, for one, have big plans to make some changes around the house this year. Everything from sprucing up my home decor to getting and staying organized are on my to-do list.

I have found the perfect Web site to help me accomplish my home improvement goals: www.become.com. Become.com is an online shopping mecca, similar to a large discount department store at your fingertips. Offering merchandise in the following categories: Electronics, Automotive, Home & Garden, Clothing, Health & Beauty, and Jewelry, http://www.become.com/ has something to help you kick off your year and accomplish your goals for 2012.

I was looking for a quick and inexpensive way to add some pizazz to the girls' bedrooms. I love these pink throw pillows. They are the perfect complement to their comforters.

If you purchased a new TV for the holidays, you can find the perfect TV wall cabinet or plasma TV wall cabinet at become.com.

If organizing is your goal this year, a plastic pegboard is the perfect way to store items in a garage or craft room. Pegboards are perfect for keeping small items organized on a wall surface.

With a great selection from all your favorite brands, become.com is your one-stop shop for necessities and your splurges. Take one look today, and you'll discover for yourself what all the buzz is about.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed herein are mine and are based on my personal experience with become.com.

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Tips for Telecommuters: Managing the Fine Line Between Home and Office

This fall, I quickly learned that the lines between work and home often blur when you work from home. One second I was writing an article, and the next I was refilling a cup of apple juice. I'd often return to my desk to discover that I couldn't remember where I'd left off. To say it was counterproductive is quite an understatement.

Whether your work at home situation is permanent or temporary, there are some steps to take to ensure that you achieve maximum productivity while minimizing distractions.

1. Maintain your space
Whether you have a dedicated home office or you'll be working from your dining room table, keep your setup contained to that area only. Do not spill over into the kitchen, family room, or worse yet, the bedroom. Working in every room will give your family the impression that you are constantly available.

2. Create some rules and set expectations
Let your family know when you can be interrupted, if necessary. For example, when taking phone calls, close the door to send the message that you are not available. When not on a call, keep the door ajar just a crack so that everyone knows you are accessible in a crisis. Make sure you let your family know what constitutes a crisis. You'd be surprised how much it differs between everyone. ;-)

3. Get help
If you've got little ones home during the day, consider hiring some help for a few hours a day. The extra money for a sitter will be worth the uninterrupted time you get to work in peace.

4. Gentle reminders
Because I made the transition from stay-at-home mom to work-at-home mom, my family often forgets that I am working. Requests for trips to the store, dry cleaning, post office can no longer be fit in just anywhere in my day. If you have a typical 9 to 5 day, schedule errands for before or after work. If you have an atypical day, as I often do, block out time in the middle of the day to run errands.

5. Manage social media
As a social media professional, it's easy for me to become distracted by the personal aspect of social media outlets. It's difficult not be distracted by a friend's recently posted vacation album on Facebook when I should be working for a client. However, it's best to save personal FB time for the evenings. Otherwise, one simple comment may quickly turn into an hour browsing albums and commenting on each photo.

6. Get out!`
Working from home can be lonely and isolating. Rather than take a lunch break, I opt for a trip to Starbucks instead. It gets me out of the house and breaks up the monotony. Plus, I am bound to run into someone I know who is up for a quick chat. This is just as important for productivity as any of the above measures.

And of course, behind every organized woman is a great planner. I love the momAgenda line of planners.

Do you work from home? What tricks have you implemented to keep your focus?

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Tackle It Tuesday: The Playroom

Every week, 5 Minutes for Mom hosts Tackle It Tuesday, an opportunity to showcase a completed project or task. I've participated on several other occasions, and with my recent tackle, I wanted to share my accomplishment.


Ahhhh, the dreaded playroom cleanup. Always monumental. Always time consuming. This time was no exception.

Here's what I was up against.

I told you it was monumental. Can you believe that mess?

After hours and hours of organizing, purging, re-arranging, scouring, mopping, hair-pulling, ibuprofen-popping, here's the end result.

There's more.

The shelves are homemade, and I must give credit to my sister Brenda for the fabulous idea. She suggested that I buy cinder blocks and plywood for low-standing shelves. What a great idea! I was able to control the height and the length of the shelves. I didn't want them too high as I have a 4 year old. The low-standing shelves will promote independence since she's able to select her own toys.

Best part? The kids are loving their new playroom. They spend so much more time in there, and surprisingly, are cleaning up after themselves. I love it, and they do, too!

To check out some other fabulous tackles or link up one of your own, click here.

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Organization, where are you??

I used to be best friends with Organization. We were like this {picture me linking my forefinger and middle finger}. We were as thick as thieves. And then...I had children.

Why is it that once we become mothers, our organizing abilites are stripped from us? I was the picture of organization and structure. Some might say I still am. But I've definitely seen a decline in my ability to keep it all together since my firstborn came along 8 years ago. Four years after that, when my second was born, my pal Organization was M.I.A.

I've forgotten to mark important dates and appointments on the calendar. Months ago I missed an appointment with my dermatologist. Embarrassingly, I had to call to reschedule. Humiliating.

I used to have the most meticulous to do list. Color coded and categorized, my lists were the envy of all of my girlfriends. Now, I've got several lists strewn about with sticky notes attached or falling off or, worse yet, lying on the floor under a pile of toys.

I've vowed to get my act together and get back to the place I used to be pre-children. I have a few things in my favor:

1) The warm weather tends to bring on nesting instincts for me. I don't know what it is, but spring breezes make me want to de-clutter and re-organize. Spring is good, people!

2) Thanks to my mate, Coryanne over at Housewife Bliss (Go check her out. You'll love her and her nifty tips.), I have discovered ListPlanIt, a site completely devoted to all things organization. With a multitude of eplanners and lists, ListPlanIt specializes in everything you need to get you, your family and your home organized. For just $20 per year, you have full access to print all the lists you could possibly imagine.

3) I'm motivated to make a few extra bucks this spring. I have some big ticket baby items that I'm looking to unload...a Pottery Barn Kids crib and changing table, a Peg Perego highchair and a baby swing. I'm seeing a few dollar signs in my future.

No more excuses for me! I want to spend my spring organizing my life so that I can spend my summer enjoying my life!!

What are your tips for organizing and de-cluttering? How do you manage to stay on top of it?

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