Geoff Colvin’s book, “Talent is Overrated,” argues against the idea that talent competition among humans centers on their genetic inheritance.  Instead he believes you can train your child to be a prodigy.  Of course, that involves a huge amount of commitment on your part.  (Think Earl and Tiger Woods.)

Most parents want the best for their children and sacrifice a great deal to achieve this.  Yet few have the time or drive to push for the relentless practice that would produce the next violin virtuoso or top-seeded tennis player.

However there are still skills to impart at an early age.  Colvin suggests that business acumen or musical expertise be developed early.  I would like to add on to these areas and say that teaching young children organization skills will serve them well for all of their lives.  Whether they become  Fortune 500 CEOs or sports stars, there will always be schedules to keep, documents to find, and projects to manage.

I am not saying that you need to be relentless in pushing organization of the playroom, but this is a great opportunity to start early.  Involve your child in how things are set up and then in keeping them maintained that way. 

Early Childhood:

• Have enough shelves and containers.
• Put a picture on the container for quick sorting.
• Create simple box schedules.  Use pictures on the chart for chores and events.
• Plan the night before.  Clothes can be put out for school the next day.

High School:

• Have a system for dealing with their own basic files. 
• Give them a say in how and where their things are located. 
• Be sure they write down homework assignments and chores.
• Guide them in maintaining a printed or electronic schedule that would include the above.

Your part is two-fold: 

1. You have to model organized behavior.
2. You have to be consistent in your expectations. 

The busier your family is, the more need for organization.  Do your children a favor and help them get a head start in their careers and their lives, regardless of what paths they take.  If you do not feel that you have the skills to do this, take a break and seek time management training for yourself.  Not only will it help you, but it will lead to a more relaxed and successful family lifestyle.