Judith Sutton ABR CRS IDS PMN ASP IAHSP SRES GREEN
Judy@JudithSutton.com 908 803-0472
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Invited guest contributor: CB Blue Matter
Whether learning in-person or online, one thing will always be true: homework is a part of life. And no matter how much pushback our children give us, getting it done is a necessity. But it doesn’t have to be an unpleasant chore—especially when spaces are designed to be personal, useful, colorful, and fun! (well, maybe not too much fun)! But who can resist these beautiful ideas I am about to put before you!
Regardless of your child’s age, grade, or excitement (or lack thereof) around learning, here are some foolproof tips for designing the perfect kid homework area. Back to school means back to doing homework. While there are many ways to help children develop good self-discipline, one way is to motivate them by creating an inviting, cheerful space where they can concentrate and stay stress-free. You don’t need a lot of space or a dedicated room for a homework station. Whether it’s a desk in your child’s bedroom, the kitchen table, or a nook in a hallway, here are some ways to ensure it’s a well-organized area conducive to getting work done! I hope you find inspiration for your home!
First, Create a Clutter-Free Space
When it comes to creating the perfect workspace, keeping it organized may sound like a no-brainer. But, in the rush to create spaces for work and play, parents often neglect the importance of removing clutter to create a truly distraction-free space.
The first thing to understand is what clutter actually is. This can look different for every family and child. It can be anything from loose papers to toys that shouldn’t have a place on the desk or learning space.
Help your child understand how to categorize items and put away what’s not actually needed. Create drawers or on-the-desk organizers where these items can live without getting in the way of focus. Emphasize the importance of being organized in order to stay invested and engaged in school work.
Keep Necessities Within Reach
While removing distractions is a must, on the other end of the equation is the importance of helping prepare your child’s workspace for learning. Necessities are anything from writing utensils and calculators to loose-leaf paper and pencil sharpeners. And, of course, these items will vary based on student age, class, and learning level. You help decide!
The most important thing is to create a workspace that has ‘homes’ for different items so that your child doesn’t have to leave the table to complete a task. An example would be having to get up anytime they need to sharpen a pencil.
Design With Parent Proximity in Mind
Depending on your child’s age, there may be quite a bit of adult support needed to complete assignments. It won’t make sense if your child has to keep making trips from an upper-level bedroom to a lower-level kitchen just to ask questions. It could problematic if they can’t be trusted to stay focused independently.
As you create your kid’s perfect homework area, consider your child’s needs, personality, age, and learning level. You may want to set up a space with parent proximity, especially at first, to make sure you can be readily available when needed.
Lighting Should Be a Natural
It goes without saying that a homework area should be properly lit. This means that having a desk lamp (task lighting) a nearby window, or overhead ambient lighting, especially for darker spaces, is non-negotiable. Incorporating natural light, when possible, is easier on the eyes and is especially beneficial if your child is spending more time on a computer. (and we all know how that goes!)
Consider Flexible Desk Options
A multi-functional and flexible homework station is advantageous. During the week, the desk can be used for homework, and on the weekend, it’s a space for building Legos or creating model action figures or art masterpieces! (don't forget to display that artwork for affirmation and art appreciation!
There are options to use standing desks, movable desks, or even shelves that double as short-lipped kid homework stations. The options are endless and you can be really savvy with your time, space, and effort by creating something that’s more flexible. Start by looking around your home for niches or corners that have gone unnoticed.
Do any of these ideas inspire you? Love to hear from you and am happy to help!
:...Let your next purchase be an inspired one!...
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