If you had a dime for every minute you spent trying to figure out whose “No Name” paper belonged to, you’d be rich! For years I have been frustrated by this chronic problem too; especially when there is more than one child forgetting.

Then over the summer, I stumbled across this simple, yet amazing idea from Jamie at 2nd Grade Stuff

Labeled Clothespins!! Here’s what I did: I chose two different colors (boys / girls) that matched my classroom decor colors. I applied acrylic paint to both sides.  (Another Pinterest tip)

Then I wrote my student names in permanent marker.

To display the clips, I chose a letter holder (Target) but you could use a small bucket or basket just as well.

When the children arrive, they clip their clothespin to their assignment before adding it to the Homework basket.Now here is the genius part of this idea:

Immediately, with a glance, I can tell who didn’t turn in their homework yet! I can’t tell you how much time and headaches this has saved me 🙂

AND check this out:No name? No problem! I know who this belongs to. I simply remind the child to add his name to his paper. Can you hear me singing the Hallelujah chorus?

Now some might ask, what do you do with all those clipped papers? After everything has been accounted for, one of my students has the job of removing the clips and placing them back on the rack for the next day.

I’d love to hear some of your fabulous time-saving tips! Please share in the comment section below.