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Set up a study space your child will want to use



Whether homeschooling or homework, your child needs a comfortable, personal space

Set up a study space your child will want to use


The kitchen table works in a pinch, but for children who are studying at home long-term, a dedicated study space has many benefits. It helps them focus by reducing distractions, all their learning tools are in one place so they don't have hunt around, and kids become more independent. Research shows it even helps them sit in one place for a longer time, helping them get their work done.

Blogger Liz Gumbinner offers these suggestions for setting up a study area for your child.

List what your child needs. Consider grade level, curriculum, and expected activities when making plans. Younger children might work well at a play table, while older kids would do best with a computer desk. Will a printer be required? Or space to draw and write on paper? A whiteboard will help with organization and scheduling. Shelves or cabinets might be needed for storage. Compact versions will help if space is limited. You can find deals online to make furnishing affordable.

Opt for comfort. Make sure the chair is the right height for the desk and has a seat that your child will be comfortable sitting in for long periods of time.

READ MORE: Make your home an ideal learning environment

Light the space well. A study lamp is important for reading printed materials and for writing. Even when online, a proper lamp gives side illumination that makes your child's face visible to others and prevents eye strain. Just make sure the light doesn't reflect off the screen and cause glare.

Let your child decorate. Even if it's just a corner of your child's bedroom, let them decorate the space, allowing them to be creative and express their personality. They might like posters, twinkle lights, maps, a bulletin board to hold photos of friends. Even if your child's choices are not to your taste, try to accommodate their desires whenever possible. The space will be visible to others in online classes, so it will project an image that you want your child to be happy with. Most important, they'll be much more likely to enjoy working in the space if they feel it's their own.



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