Overview:

When students return to school from summer vacation – especially those advancing from elementary to middle school, or middle school to high school – millions of them and their parents complain loudly about “homework headaches.” Most of these complaints center on helping students focus and get organized – preventing any midnight mayhem. Tried, but true – the action steps below really work.

5 Steps You Can Take

1.  Keep a “to do” list and calendar.

Write down the things you need to do, and the deadlines. Keep a daily, weekly and monthly calendar of assignments. Check off items as they’re completed.

2.  Establish a routine and study when you’re at your best.

3.  Break big jobs into little jobs.

Break down big jobs into smaller tasks that are more manageable, to lessen the chances of feeling overwhelmed. Accomplish one task before moving on to the next.

4.  Have everything you need on hand to get the job done.

Make sure you have all the materials you will need before you begin the task. Keep a homework kit with the things you use most often to complete your assignments: paper, pencils, pens, markers, calculator, etc.

5.  Eliminate distractions — Focus.

Arrange time and work space to keep interruptions at a minimum, and take breaks when you need them.

Jim Clark is president and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

All statements and opinions expressed on this blog are those of the individual contributors, and not of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation or NBC News.