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.