Is your teen’s backpack a black hole of missing assignments? Do they insist they ‘have a system’—but still can’t find their stuff? If so, they may be struggling with executive functioning skills—particularly organization.
Before introducing new strategies, it’s important to gain their buy-in. Teenagers crave independence, so take a collaborative approach. Rather than giving orders, you want to share your observations, explain why organization matters, and offer to help. Then, ask if they’d be open to hearing your thoughts.
If they say no, respect that. Seeking their consent builds trust and reinforces their self-determination, making them more likely to engage in the process. Not sure where to start? I can help—fill out my Google form for personalized support!
Why Organization Matters
Once they’re open to change, it helps to understand why organization is such a crucial skill—far beyond just keeping a clean room. Organization isn’t just about having a tidy space—it’s about creating and maintaining systems to keep track of important things. Dawson and Guare, the leading experts in executive functioning research, define it as “the ability to arrange or track important things effectively.” Good organization reduces stress, saves time, and helps teens stay on top of responsibilities.
Young children rely on adults for structure—labeled bins, cubbies, and guided cleanup routines. By high school, teens are expected to manage their own spaces, but their efforts often vary. A teen might have a perfectly organized gaming setup but a backpack stuffed with crumpled papers. The key is to build on their strengths and expand those habits into other areas.
How to Help Teens Build Organization Skills
1. Involve Them in the Process
Ask your teen if they’d like to find their things more easily. Focus on areas they care about first. A system they help create is one they’ll be more likely to stick with.
2. Identify What’s Working (and What’s Not)
Instead of pointing out messes, ask what organizational system already works for them. If they keep their art supplies neatly stored but their clothes pile up, use that as a starting point. Highlighting strengths builds confidence and motivation.
3. Collaborate on Solutions
Rather than imposing a system, work together to find what makes sense. If clothes always end up on the floor, suggest adding hooks behind the door for semi-dirty items or a laundry basket within reach.
4. Set Up Gentle Reminders
Help your teen develop a system for staying on track—post-it notes, phone reminders, or a checklist on the door. Keep it simple and revise as needed. The goal is to build independence, so gradually fade reminders over time.
5. Use the Body Doubling Strategy
If your teen struggles to start organizing, offer to do it together. Sometimes just having someone nearby makes a daunting task feel manageable. You don’t have to take over—just be present and encourage them along the way.
Helping teens develop organizational skills takes patience, collaboration, and flexibility. By respecting their autonomy, focusing on strengths, and creating simple, sustainable systems, you can set them up for long-term success.
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