How do you manage it all?

[Krafty]

Really generic question (further detail to follow), but now that you've clicked, a quick response would be great too ;) , I know there are a lot of lurkers out there, but here is a great thread to get your feet wet with board posting :)

So, how do you manage it all - family, teaching, grading, planning/organizing, parents, continuing education? I'm having a hard time just reading and studying (I have a full-time job, husband, two young children and seemingly no time for me!) I love organization, it makes me feel really great but often eludes me. I'm concerned that when I finally get a teaching position, I may be overwhelmed by the demands.

What are your time-management strategies? Any tips or tricks greatly appreciated! Or if you don't have enough time either, feel free to take a minute you don't really have to vent here so I don't feel lonely ;)

CJ

[Helper]

Keep the classroom organized. I teach secondary business and it is all about presentation, organization, and dedication. ;)

[javamomma]

Well I have taught for 17 years.
For me I have found that it is easier for me to do my planning on the weekend. I cannot stay after school late or come in early due to my own children's demands of my time. So I try to get a couple of hours on Sunday afternoon to prepare for me week. I dont feel guilty because my children are home with a parent. I have also found it is much quieter then and I can get much more done.


I have found the more prepared/planning I have done and taken care of in advance, makes for a much smoother week.

Also, I have made multiple templates of differernt forms and put them in a notebook. This wont help you much the first year but in years to come you will be so glad you can pull out field trip notes, parent notes, ect and although you rewrite them some, you dont have to totally recreate them!

[j9lv2teach]

I am keeping my head just above water:) I am not the best with organization-I teach first grade and they create a lot of paper and "stuff"! I can't even get done all the county wants done, let alone teaching, what parents want, be creative and record it all and plan for tomorrow...then go home and do it with my three-prozac anyone? Oh well, I guess I just realize it is what it is and I am doing my best for all these kids- That helps:) Anyway, you're not alone. P.s. as disorganized as I seem (they say I'm Abstract Random?) My kids are doing great...the ultimate goal right?