Why Time Management (For Kids) Is Important

Yes! Time management is possible to “teach” to young students. It is a necessary life skill (and soft skill) that will get them career ready as they are older. Specifically at the ages of 6-10, students are beginning to understand the concept of time and how it affects their daily activities. By introducing time management skills early on, through such career related activities, we can help them develop habits that will benefit them throughout their lives (and in the workforce!).

Here’s a bonus: time management skill building is also essential for academic success, as they enable students to complete homework on time, prepare for tests, and balance schoolwork with extracurricular activities. Additionally, good time management reduces stress and anxiety, as students feel more in control of their schedules and less overwhelmed by their responsibilities.

Now this has to be the ultimate bonus of them all: teaching time management fosters independence and self-discipline. Students have the opportunity (within boundaries) to take ownership of their tasks, hold themselves accountable for completing those tasks, and take ownership of what they are doing. This not only supports academic success but is crucial for personal character growth when it comes to adopting good (long term) habits.

Why Should We Make This An Activity?

We know this to be true – the best way to learn and retain what you are exposed to is through active forms of learning. Active = activities. Conducting skill-building activities around time management helps reinforce the concepts you introduce to students. These activities make time management skill building part of a student’s everyday routine, which is very relatable to them. By setting up your activities this way, you give a chance for students to identify this skill (they are building) as well as internalize in a fun and engaging way.

How To Use Our Checklists

Our Time Management Skills Checklist is a valuable tool for you, the career coach, to help students assess and improve their time management skills. Here’s how to use this tool effectively:

• Identify Skills to Strengthen: Start by reviewing the first section of the checklist with the student. Provide a chance to reflect on current habits and identify areas where struggling to complete a task is happening. This self-assessment helps students become aware of their time management challenges. They also get to practice identifying their soft skills useful many years down the road in their career.
• Set Goals: Once the areas for improvement are identified, work with the student to set specific, achievable goals. For example, if the student struggles with finishing homework on time, set a goal to complete homework within a certain time frame each day. Setting clear goals provides direction and motivation.
• Track Progress: Use the second section of the checklist to track the student’s progress. Encourage the student to check off items throughout the week to strengthen this time management skill. For example, students can mark off when they create a daily schedule or use a timer for tasks. Tracking progress helps students see their improvements and stay motivated.
• Provide Support and Leave Room to Reflect: Throughout the process, provide support and encouragement. Celebrate achievements and offer positive reinforcement when the student meets a goal. If challenges happen, discuss strategies to overcome them and adjust goals as needed. Leave room to discuss lessons learned after the week following this checklist is complete. Your support in this area is what gives students the real motivation to embrace this good habit and stick to it!