From jackets to lunchboxes to hair clips, does it seem like your child is constantly losing things? Unfortunately, you child’s carelessness can come at a price for you. No matter how angry you get it’s not going to bring the lost item back from whatever abyss it was lost in. Obviously, the first rule of thumb is to label EVERYTHING. And we mean absolutely everything. Clothes, jackets, bookbags, lunchboxes, etc. The Sharpie is your best friend – so put it to work. Make sure that you always have your child’s name on his or her belongings. When something goes missing, there is never any question as to whom the item belongs. It’s the quickest way to get your lost item found. Of course, even with labeling there’s no guarantee that you’ll see said item again. So, on that note, do not give your child anything that you can’t afford for him to lose. We’re talking about bigger ticket items here such as iPods, cell phones, Nintendo DSIs and other electronics. Expensive jewelry also makes this list. If you do give your child any of these things, you may want to put a rider on the agreement that they’re only to be used (or worn) in the house or when you’re accompanying your child anywhere. Keep all chargers and accessories together in a bag. You may even want to label them so there’s no mystery as to what goes with what. Don’t let your child take these goodies to school, parties, camp or other places where they’re likely to go MIA. Even the most responsible child is eventually going to misplace something, here are a few gentle approaches to handing the big loss. Use empathy and explain we’ve all been through it. If your child frequently loses things, ask your child why it keeps having. Make sure there are consequences. Do not replace the lost item without a consequence. Make your children do chores or spend their allowance to help cover the costs. Make your child prove he’s responsible before replacing the items.