How to Create a Learning Space for Children at Home
It is very likely that our children will spend at least part (or most, or all) of their week learning virtually from home after the new school year begins this fall. And while we managed to get through the spring with impromptu study spaces where they performed their sporadic assignments and took part in unorganized Zoom calls, that’s a different matter. They start a new class with a new teacher and a new curriculum, and we no longer work in a “just until the end of the year.” They will have to – gulp – legally study at home. So they will need a place dedicated to this.
If your kids don’t already have a specific place to work at school, now is a good time to take a look around your home and find out where you can position them given their comfort and functionality. and whatever you can add to make it a little fun.
Comfort
In the spring, my son got into the habit of lounging on my bed every day with his Chromebook for an hour or two to do his third grade assignments. His young back could handle that position for a small fraction of the day, but he is expected to sit and work from home for much longer this year. So, some of the first things I started looking for were a writing desk and a comfy chair.
You may already have a writing desk or desk in your home that can be used for teaching this fall, but if you don’t already have the right chair and can splurge on at least one thing, do it. Make sure that the chair and the height of the desk they use allow them to work and / or type comfortably for a significant period of time.
If possible, place them by or near a window. If I have learned anything over the years working from home, it is that natural light and the view from the outside world are beneficial for mental health, especially now.
Functionality
Knowing that we will have to keep the kids on assignment this school year is a daunting thought to say the least. And yet it’s true. There will be plenty to distract them from their work, including their siblings, your own work calls, the rumble of a garbage truck down the street, proximity to a kitchen full of snacks, and the fact that they would rather watch TV. The only hope we have is to create the most functional space for them.
If at all possible, especially if you have multiple kids who will need to complete schoolwork and video chats throughout the day, find a semi-private and quiet place for each child so that one Zoom child does not call. him. t destroy the concentration of a child who is trying to multiply fractions for the first time. If the children need to work in one room, consider also setting aside space in the other room exclusively for video calls, so that those who are actively working can do it in peace.
Their workspace should also be large enough to accommodate their computer (if they have one) and any school supplies they will use regularly, such as pencils, crayons, paper, rulers, folders, and workbooks. If they have a desk with drawers, great; If not, take out a few small containers or organizers to hide their supplies.
If they are young and you also work from home during this time, you need to think about where they will work in relation to your place of work, especially if you will be the one who helps them troubleshoot when they feel comfortable in the first place. stuck. They need to be close enough to ask for help if they need it, but not close enough that you constantly distract each other all day. This will be challenging and will depend on the age of your children and how much help they need, but this should be kept in mind.
Fun
Finally, try to make the space a little fun. I ordered my son a bright yellow table and neon green chair (both of which he chose), as well as some bright office organizers and these emoji drink coasters . But you can also paint your existing furniture bright colors and hang a small corkboard, whiteboard, or posters to decorate.
Then add a fancy lamp to their desk or a colorful rug underneath their desk. Take pictures of them with your friends from the best days without a pandemic. Top it off with a small plant to create an atmosphere and a stress ball to relieve anxiety. Try to make the space as bright and inviting as you can so they don’t have to sit down and get to work every day.