A quick note about an "outloud" resolution

I hate to admit it but I am known for misplacing things--my cellphone, my keys, my purse, my shoes, my car. Yes, my car.

I have decided that 2011 is the year of NOT losing things. So, I am trying something simple and, so far, very effective. For instance, when I put my keys away in my coat pocket, I say outloud, "Keys in coat pocket." If I put my cell phone in my purse, I say outloud, "Cell phone in purse." If I park my car next to J.C. Penneys, I say outloud, "Car parked next to J.C. Penneys."

So far, this has proven very effective though I am still looking for a set of keys I put in a safe place before the holidays and before this resolution. That safe place is somewhere in my house, part of which underwent a complete overhaul with more than 15 bags of stuff going to Good Will. I am hopeful the keys are still in a safe place.

Too bad I can't rewind and say outloud, "Keys in top desk drawer." (I've looked. They are not there.)

What does this have to do with doing what is best for kids?

I challenge you as a parent or teacher to challenge your kid, who frequently becomes frustrated when he or she loses track of things, to try this method of keeping track of a cellphone, keys, or textbooks. Just imagine how much less stressful life would be if we always remembered where things were!

And less stress means doing what is best for kids!