Backpack Basics - TeachersandFamilies

Backpack Basics Want your child to become an organized, self-sufficient young person? Try working toward these guidelines/expectations for what to do when the backpack gets home. Notice the three distinct times: unloading, work time, and reloading. PLAN when these times will occur and be consistent with them. Also notice that even a third grader has an assignment book to record homework assigned. If you establish these routines early in the year and in early grades, you are less likely to have papers get eaten by the "backpack monster"! Some parents find that rewards for good habits (a new book, an extra time alone with Mom) help the habits along!
	First Grade	Third Grade	Fifth Grade
Unloading	Empties backpack with supervision. Together with parent, sorts which items to keep, give to Grandma, etc.	Sorts homework from parent handouts with parent spot-checks.	Sorts homework, parent handouts. Asks for parent signatures as needed. Writes list on refrigerator for materials needed in advance, such as project display boards or art supplies. Tells parent if help will be needed studying for tests, etc.
Work Time	Answers parent questions about backpack ontents during regular "tell me about school" time.	Reads assignment book to parent. Completes homework during regular "homework time" and checks off in assignment book with parent supervision.	Reads assignment book and completes homework during regular "homework time" and checks off in assignment book on own. Parents verify as needed.
Reloading	With parent supervision, replaces material in backpack to go to school. Parent places teacher notes, permission slips, etc. in backpack.	Places completed homework (in "homework folder") and assignment book in backpack for return to school as soon as work is complete. Parent spot check. Parent assists with permission slips, etc.	Places completed homework in appopriate book/notebook along with assignment book in backpack for return to school as soon as work is complete. Remembers to include permission slips, etc. Does this on own.
Looking for more? Try Teaching Study Skills - a guide for parents of students at all ages.

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