Guest blogger Sarah: My son (age 8) is super disorganized. He frequently forgets his lunchbox, his homework, his jacket .... Mornings have always been a nightmare in my house.

This year, I vowed that things were going to be different. I met with an educational consultant and did tons of research on the subject. After taking the following five steps, the chaos in our house has quieted considerably.

1) I created a well-lit workspace in our home, with all of my son's school supplies stocked and ready. That way, we don't have to waste a lot of time looking for lost notebooks or rulers.

2) I talked to my son's teacher about his disorganization issue. Before, I had always hidden the fact from teachers (or tried to hide it, anyway). After discussing it with her, I feel like I have an ally. We are working together to help my son succeed.

3) We got a big calendar and wrote down all of my son's assignments and appointments. Then we hung the calendar in the dining room in plain sight. We review it several times a day. That way, it's not a "surprise" when a paper is due or picture day is here.

4) Whenever we have to remember something the next morning, we put a Post-it on the front door the night before (i.e., "LIBRARY BOOK DUE"). Putting the note ON the door ensures that we won't forget!

5) I now strictly enforce bedtimes, since my son (like most kids) thinks a lot more clearly when he's well-rested. It's lights out at 8:30 PM -- no exceptions!

How do you help your kids stay organized? Share your strategies below.