Tools I love
Whenever I talk about the work I do, I always get asked for my favorite tools and supplies. And I do have my favorites - the ones I recommend to my student and adult clients time and time again. Today, I’m sharing them with you!
Before I do, however, it’s important to note that tools don’t work by themselves. They can really only be used by a person who understands them. And the person must be taught the reasons why these tools work to support brains. That's what I do in my coaching.
However, I also teach that we have to do some “shopping around" to find the just-right tools that work for our unique brains. And, since trying something is always better than doing nothing, today I’m sharing some of my favorites.
Let’s get to it!
Tools for Time Management
I always recommend analog over digital clocks. Analog clocks show a more complete picture of time. This small analog clock (with a silent sweep second hand) is a good one to put anywhere you get “lost in time.” It should be in sight – or as one of my former clients would say “in your face.” That could be on your desk, in the bathroom, near the video games, near the TV, or other places you need it. This one is also great as an alarm clock.
Here's another small analog clock that I like. It's metal, so some clients like to attach this magnetic timer and some magnetic dry erase markers to it. Then they have a trio of tools that always stay together! And this video shows one way to help students with time management using these tools.
My clients know that I use these Post-it flags on a small clock to help me set goals and see the passing of time. It’s similar to the strategy in the video above.
I definitely recommend a wall clock in the kitchen and in a student’s bedroom. Here are a couple of options for wall clocks (also with silent sweep second hand!) - Option #1 and Option #2. This clock should also be simple and easy to read, like the small ones above.
Many people get lost in time in the shower! Here's a shower clock.
If you or your student need it, here is a Telling Time Tutorial. No judgment. You’re not alone. (This is the best tutorial I’ve found, but there is one mistake at 1:39. He says that the large hand tells you the hour. But it tells you the minute. The rest is good!)
This daily time blocking notepad can help with planning the day.
Some older students like to use a mini notebook to jot down reminders or homework assignments. They fit easily in a pocket alongside a phone.
Everyone needs at least one calendar in their world. I like an inexpensive desk calendar. This one is large and easy to see.
I also love the Essential Calendar. It shows three months at a time. My family uses this one, and I use it for my business, too. (I have a discount code for you, too: COACHCARRIEBONNETT)
I always recommend using timers while working. Time is time; ten minutes is ten minutes. And timers help keep us honest about time. Here’s a digital timer that I like. I like that it’s easy to use and it sounds annoying when going off. That means we can’t ignore it!
The Time Timer shows the passing of time. There are lots of sizes and colors. Many clients (and teachers) love this one!
Sand timers are also a good way to show the passing of time.
Some clients especially like a cube timer, which is a great option for when we don’t want to be bothered to set a timer.
I love these dry erase "sticky notes." They stick to anything smooth, so they’re great for the kitchen counter or bathroom mirror. Just one way to keep reminders or tasks in sight.
But I also love traditional sticky notes like these for keeping reminders or tasks in sight. And some students like to “spike” their sticky notes after completion using this restaurant receipt holder to earn some dopamine for their brains.
A small dry erase board (or a big one?) is another way to keep reminders or tasks in sight, too. Check out this video for a way to use magnets to keep track of tasks.
Binders, etc.
I like these binders for school. Since they are not getting many papers anymore, I believe students only need one binder for everything.
This clear folder is perfect for the front of a binder. This is where your student can shove all papers they receive during the day (and then deal with them at home).
These are the dividers that I like for the binder (with a pocket) - one for each class.
I like reinforced lined paper, so that it's less likely to get ripped out.
Some students like mechanical pencils because they stay sharp. These are a good choice.
Others prefer the original. These are beloved by teachers and students alike.
That is definitely enough to keep you busy today. I hope these help you create a collection of tools that support your brain – or the brain of someone you love. Good luck!
And remember: be gentle with yourself and your student. You’re doing a great job.
Note: If you buy something through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely like. Thank you so much.
