How to organize your backpack kindergarten through grad school, kids carry around a lot of books, supplies and technology in their backpacks. Over time, the bags can become cluttered with papers and it’s hard to find anything. It’s important to help kids learn how to organize their backpacks to avoid a mess, and make it easier for them to get their things out and back in.

First, empty the bag completely. Then, shake it over a trash can or vacuum it to remove any dirt and crumbs that may have collected on the bottom of the bag. Then, wipe it down to be sure it’s clean and ready for use.

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Now it’s time to sort the items that you want to put back into your backpack. Start with the most basic items, like folders, notebooks, glue and pens. Then move on to more specific items, like school books, folders and binders. If you have extra items that you only need on a daily or seasonal basis, such as a lunch box, scarf or mittens, add them to the top of your backpack, so they are easy to access.

Finally, arrange the heaviest items in the backpack, so they are against your back and the center of the bag. Then, place medium-weight items, like food and supplies, in front compartments where they are easy to access. If your backpack has pockets, consider putting smaller items in those pockets, such as a Lil’ Wedge or a Pack-It Isolate(tm) Sac Set that fits a variety of small accessories.