Thinking Outside the Box Meme

This is the first time I am participating in something like this, so I am a bit unsure of "blog etiquette", but here goes :-) -- this survey is put together for those who are interested in seeing how others are using their workbox system. You can also participate by visiting the "Work of Childhood" blog. Sounds like fun!

I was suppose to put somewhere the ages of the children that I am filling the boxes for! Until I figure out where/how I was suppose to do that, they are 11 (just turned), 8, and 6 (also just had a bday).

How many boxes do you fill?
34

Do you expect your children to go in order?
Ultimately that is my goal. For now, we adjust as we go through the day-- boxes often are skipped and then returned to later. As soon as I read about the workbox idea, I implemented a make shift version-- we have been slowly working toward using the system as outlined in the book. Even at in its least structured form, our day has been immensely improved by using the workboxes!!

Do you use the schedule strips?
We do not use schedule strips yet. This summer, I would like to order 3 of the starter kits from Sue Patrick.

How long does it take you to fill the boxes?
It takes about 30 min.- 1hr. to put away the previous day's boxes and set up the new boxes. I think I will get faster at it... there are days when I am in a hurry-- I am able to finish in far less time. I think I save time, ultimately, when I invest in setting up the boxes. The following day goes smoothly and there is no down time waiting for mom to pull things together.

Do you fill your work boxes EACH night with all new items?
I fill the boxes each night, but not all boxes are completely changed out. We often have ongoing craft projects that will stay in the box for a few days or a math game that will be played all week.

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Do you have some boxes repeat each day so there is less filling/refilling?
As mentioned, we do have boxes repeat. A math box might have a workbook, number stamps and a pencil in it for the whole week. There are things that are done a few times a week like a map skills workbook-- that stays in a box for two days and then the science activity book goes in for two days.

What do your kids do with the empty boxes?
The boxes are usually set at the end of the table or on the floor next to the table-- I find I get a bit annoyed with them. That will be part of our summer reorganizing-- to find a system for stashing the boxes. My boys like seeing them disappear from the shelves-- it is very motivating for them. I just need to find somewhere to keep them in the meantime!

Do you put away the ‘supplies’ each night? or do your kids?
I generally put the supplies away. I keep a box next to our boxes that has pencils, glue sticks, erasers, post-its, crayons and others things so that I have what I need on hand. Sometimes my 11yo does help.

Anything else you want to add?
We have not gotten the system up and running for my high school student as of yet. A small attempt was made, but I need to be able to get some time with her. I am hoping that another summer project will to be to get this working for her-- I think it will work well.