5 Ways to Teach Time Management Skills

Time management can be difficult for children and adults alike. Procrastination and distraction often feel more accessible than hunkering down and getting work done. Children who struggle with time management may seem lazy. However, there’s a higher chance that they’re worried about getting things right or simply don’t realize how much time each task will take. Here’s how you can help your child manage time in a more effective way.

Start with Telling Time

Show your child an analog clock, and teach them how to read it. This particular life skill may have passed them by, but it’s an important one to know. Use the analog clock to give them perspective on how long things take if they struggle to see it on a less visual digital clock. Children and adults often underestimate or overestimate the length of time for each task. Consider buying your child a watch so they have a quick reference for telling time that’s not a phone or mobile device.

Set and Stick to a Routine

Children work better when they have a schedule. Having a structured routine gives them more time to create and explore. Set wake up times, bed times and meal times, and create a routine around each one. Always remind your child to wash their hands, brush their teeth, get dressed and get ready at the same time so they’ll always be on time. Set consistent times for these activities, and your children will get used to how things work. Guide your child in the routine, but try not to be too harsh if they don’t get it right. 

Let Your Child Create a Calendar

Having a physical object to reference will help your child stick to a schedule and help you keep them accountable. Create a DIY physical calendar together, giving your child creative freedom, of course. If they feel like it’s truly theirs, they’ll be more likely to enjoy updating and checking it. Make sure they hang it somewhere visible in the house. Start off telling your child what to add, and keep up to see how they’re using it. Consider creating a family calendar, too, so they have an example to follow. 

Create a Specific Study Area

Just like working from home is easier to do within a dedicated workspace, studying at home works better in a designated area. This lets your child block out distractions like what’s happening on TV or what other family members are doing. It also helps them distinguish between family life and school life. Help them put the area together with a specific place for each item. Make sure they keep the area clean and organized. This will help them stay motivated and be less likely to lose something important like a homework assignment.

Model Time Management Skills

Where you lead, your children will follow. Showing your child that you can manage your time effectively will inspire them to do the same. Make an effort to always be on time for family functions and after school activities. Try your best to stick to your own schedule. Give yourself grace if you miss a deadline, and see if you can use it as a teachable moment for your child. The more you help your child now, the higher their chances of future success. 

Children often struggle with time management, but parents help them figure it out. With over 57 years of academic excellence, St. Teresa Catholic School, a Titusville private school, provides a quality education that challenges and empowers students to develop to their full potential. Students foster qualities that are essential for lifelong learning and are equipped for future success. To learn more about why St. Teresa is the perfect fit for you and your student, contact us today.