Children, and really all adults benefit from structure. Our brains are programmed to run better and think clearer when our environment is running smoothly. We are not meant to operate with chaos around us. Disorganization and lack of structure are correlated with anxiety, mood disturbances, behavior issues and low self-esteem.
The first step is organizing yourself, the parent. This models life skills for your children, and also helps you feel more accomplished. The demands on parents are endless, and most parents are balancing work, parenting and taking care of the home.
There are a number of books and websites that have plans for organizing.
One of my favorite books is called “One Year to an Organized Life,” by Regina Leeds. This book makes organization feel manageable, and breaks things down into clear tasks. If you have the ability, there are a number of professional organizers that will help you get started.
I find in my practice, that any strategy or tool I can give to parents, they are unable to follow through and be consistent with, unless they are organized. If you are running around, over-scheduled or feeling depleted, than the first step is to take care of yourself. Once this happens, you can tackle behavior struggles with your children.
Happier, organized parents lead to BETTER KIDS.
Let me know how you’re doing. Contact me for a family consultation.
Katie Gately
The Behaved Brain
Healthier Kids – Happier Parent