How to Keep Track of Your Stuff

A simple guide to help you organize your belongings so you always know where your favorite things are. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Pick a home for everything. Every item needs a 'home' where it lives when you aren't using it. For example, your art supplies live in the blue bin, and your shoes live by the front door. Walk through your room and decide where each group of items belongs.
2. Label your spaces. Use your labels or tape and markers to write the name of the item on the outside of the bin or drawer. If you aren't a confident writer yet, ask a grown-up to help you write the names or draw a picture of what goes inside.
3. Create a 'home base' list. Write down a list of your most important items—like your backpack, tablet, or favorite book—and write where their 'home' is next to them. Keep this list somewhere you can see it, like on your wall or desk.
4. The 'use it and return it' rule. The secret to staying organized is simple: whenever you finish using something, put it right back in its home. If you make this a habit, you won't have to hunt for your things later.