"The Keatings" wrote:

My 12 year old is getting poor grades in school because she doesn't
turn in
her homework (class work and tests are fine). The homework
organization has
been an issue since forever, and we've tried everything. Any
suggestions?

In our school district, and maybe in our entire state, there's a
required class for seventh graders where these skills are taught as part
of the curriculum. The students must purchase a standard planning book,
and all the teachers are aware that this is part of the program. My own
kids didn't go through this, and I'm not sure how much it helps, but
maybe having eveyone expected to take out a notebook and write down
assignments can make a difference.

If I were in this situation, I think what I would do first would be to
ask my daughter what possible solutions she can think of, pick one, and
do everything in your power to support her in it. Maybe it could be a
special (nicely decorated!) folder to put assignment sheets in. Maybe it
could be pens in cool colors to write things on her arms. I'm sure
you've thought of weekly and monthly rewards for success, but the ways
to track that success have to be agreeable to her.

Sorry I don't have a better magic wand to wave at this one.

Peggy

--
....it's always better to find humility before
it goes out looking for you. -- Carolyn Hax